In these rapidly changing times, preventing disease, improving our health, and reducing health inequality will depend on a broad range of people and expertise. The Public Health distance learning programme reflects this, offering an unparalleled number of specialised modules, designed to help you become a catalyst for change in your area of interest.

As this is a flexible online degree, you can study when and where it suits you. Learning at your own pace, you’ll be able to balance your studies with existing work or personal commitments. If you’re a PGDip or MSc student, you’ll have the opportunity to apply to study one or two modules at the LSHTM.

Each module is supported by materials designed to enable you to meet the intended learning outcomes for the module. Our study forums and webinars provide a space for you to ask questions and engage in discussion with teaching staff and other students.

What you will learn

Gain a comprehensive understanding of the wider determinants of health and the breadth of factors that contribute to global health.
Develop critical thinking skills to confidently analyse evidence, question assumptions, and shape innovative approaches.
Learn how to systematically approach problems and navigate through possible solutions and theories with confidence.
If taking the MSc, you will have the option to follow the General Stream or to focus on the area that matters most to you and your career plan and follow the Environment & Health, Health Economics, Health Promotion, or Health Services Management stream.

As a distance learning student at LSHTM, you’ll join a global community of students from diverse geographical, academic and professional backgrounds. The discussion forums and webinars linked to each module, and the informal discussion forums in the online ‘student café’ provide a space for you to connect with other students and the teaching team. All of this will enrich your learning experience and help you get the most out of the programme.

Who is it for?

This course meets a wide variety of professional and academic needs.

Perhaps you’re already working in public health and need to strengthen your epidemiology skills to get to the next stage of your career. Maybe you’ve been working in an underfunded health service and want to move into policy where you can drive important changes. Or maybe you’ve witnessed the rise in preventable illnesses and you’re keen to move to an influential position where you can serve the population more effectively.

This programme is open to a wide range of graduates, with at least one year's relevant work experience. We encourage you to use insights from your own experience to tailor the course to meet your career goals.

Whichever specialism you choose, you’ll graduate with an award that’s internationally recognised as a qualification of excellence in the area of public and global health.