Doctorate in Public Health

Study for a PhD through distance e-learning

This doctoral programme offers people working in public health an opportunity to gain key skills in qualitative and quantitative research methods and research ethics, as well as a more critical insight into their practice. The format of the programme (part-time and blended/distance e-learning) has been specifically designed to meet the needs of public health professionals wishing to complete doctoral training and make an original contribution to knowledge development within their field, whilst at the same time fulfilling their existing responsibilities.

The aims of the course are to:

• Develop advanced skills in research design, practice and dissemination
• Promote a critical understanding of public health policy and practice
• Foster critical approaches to evidence review and knowledge management
• Improve scholarship in presenting written and oral arguments
• Enhance leadership skills and effectiveness.

Who should apply?

This PhD programme will appeal to a wide range of people working in public health, in the UK and internationally:

• Clinical and non-clinical public health practitioners
• Policy makers
• Researchers
• Educators

Entry Requirements

The standard minimum entry requirements are:

• A good first degree (minimum 2:1);
• Relevant experience of working within the field of public health OR a Masters in Public Health or a related field;
• If English is not your first language an overall IELTS score of at least 6.5 is required (a minimum of 5.5 must be achieved in each separate skill: writing, reading, listening and speaking). Information on minimum requirements for TOEFL IBT or Pearson PTE Academic can be found here.

Applicants must also include with their application:

• Two references from individuals able to comment on the applicant's suitability for doctoral study (at least one should be from an academic);
• A 500 word research proposal which should include an introduction to the study topic, research questions and the methods that may be used. (We acknowledge that applicants who are admitted to the programme may wish to change their topic and/or research methods as their ideas develop);
• A personal statement giving a clear indication of their motivation for pursuing a PhD in Public Health.

Mode of Study

Modules are delivered through distance e-learning supported by annual residential blocks, making the programme suitable for public health professionals working in the UK and internationally.

Years 1 and 2 provide training in the theory and practice of public health, research design, quantitative and qualitative research methods, research ethics, and organisational change and development in public health. From Year 3 onwards students embark on independent study which concludes with the submission of a thesis which makes an original contribution to knowledge within the student's area of professional practice. The research component will be supervised from Lancaster University but undertaken in the student's workplace.

Course Duration

The programme commences in June each year. Part-time study: minimum 4 years, maximum 7 years.