BSc Public Health (on campus)

Year of entry: 2026

Overview

Degree awarded
Bachelor of Science (Honours)
Duration
3 years FT
Typical A-level offer
BBB (including specific subjects).
Refugee/care-experienced offer

This course is not eligible for a refugee/care experienced offer. Refugee/care experienced offers are only available for courses that have a standard entry requirements of ABB or higher. For further information on our contextual admissions please view our contextual admissions page .

Find out more about contextual admissions.
Typical International Baccalaureate offer

We require 32 points overall with grades 5,5,5 in higher level subjects.

We will consider a number of other comparable qualifications, studied in the UK and internationally. If you have any queries about your particular qualification, please email ug.publichealth@manchester.ac.uk

Full entry requirements

How to apply

Sustainable Development Goals

Find out how this course aligns to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, including learning which relates to:

  • Goal 3: Good health and well-being
UCAS course code
B902
UCAS institution code
M20

Course overview

  • Develop the skills you need to explore a career in public health with global opportunities.
  • Make a difference by learning how to improve health and wellbeing.
  • Discover how to protect against health threats and reduce ill health.
  • Learn about health inequalities and how to reduce these.
  • Discover how to improve the physical, mental and social wellbeing of different age ranges and ethnic groups.Ìý
  • Explore methods to ensure health services are effective, efficient and accessible.Ìý
  • You can also choose to extend your study into a fourth year and gain a Master of Public Health (MPH).
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5 things you didn't know about public health

Open days

Join our academic and admissions team on Tuesday 26 November 12pm-1pm to find out about the undergraduate course in public health at 91ɬÂþ. The programme leads will explain the courses' structure, entry requirements as well as the possible career routes after completing the course. Book your place here .

Fees

Tuition fees for home students will be £9,790 for the 2026/27 academic year (subject to Parliamentary approval). In England and Wales, tuition fees for home undergraduate students are subject to the , which the Government has announced will be £9,790 for the 2026/27 academic year and £10,050 for the 2027/28 academic year (subject to Parliamentary approval).

The Government has also announced that the fee cap will then increase on an annual basis to reflect inflation (i.e. increasing costs), and the tuition fee home students pay in subsequent academic years will reflect any increases in the Government fee cap (which we will communicate to you as soon as we can in advance of the relevant academic year).

Tuition fees for international students will be £28,900 for the 2026/27 academic year. For subsequent academic years, the University reserves the right to increase the tuition fee by up to 7% each year including to reflect rising costs associated with delivering our education and wider student experience.

For general information please see the undergraduate finance pages.

Policy on additional costs

All students should normally be able to complete their programme of study without incurring additional study costs over and above the tuition fee for that programme. Any unavoidable additional compulsory costs totalling more than 1% of the annual home undergraduate fee per annum, regardless of whether the programme in question is undergraduate or postgraduate taught, will be made clear to you at the point of application. Further information can be found in the University's (PDF document, 91KB).

Scholarships/sponsorships

The University of 91ɬÂþ is committed to attracting and supporting the very best students. We have a focus on nurturing talent and ability, and we want to make sure that you have the opportunity to study here, regardless of your financial circumstances. For information about scholarships and bursaries, please visit our undergraduate finance page: Student finance for undergraduates at 91ɬÂþ.

UN Sustainable Development Goals

The 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are the world's call to action on the most pressing challenges facing humanity. At The University of 91ɬÂþ, we address the SDGs through our research and particularly in partnership with our students.

Led by our innovative research, our teaching ensures that all our graduates are empowered, inspired and equipped to address the key socio-political and environmental challenges facing the world.

To illustrate how our teaching will empower you as a change maker, we've highlighted the key SDGs that our courses address.

  • Goal 3: Good health and well-being

    Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages

Contact details

School/Faculty
Contact name
Admissions team
Telephone
+44 (0)161 529 4563
Email
Website
School/Faculty overview
Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health

Courses in related subject areas

Use the links below to view lists of courses in related subject areas.

Compare this course

Entry requirements

A-level

BBB in three subjects.

Practical skills are a crucial part of science education and therefore will be a requirement to pass the practical element of any science A Level taken. Where applicants are applying for science and related degrees, this is likely to be made explicit in the offer you will receive.

Applicants taking A Levels are normally expected to offer three full A Levels. If you’re taking more than three A Levels, these won’t be included in your offer. We will only make offers consisting of three A Levels.

Contextual offer

This course is not eligible for a contextual offer. Contextual offers are only available for courses that have a standard entry requirements of ABB or higher. For further information on our contextual admissions please view our contextual admissions page .

AS-level

AS-level results are not considered as part of the standard admissions process at The University of 91ɬÂþ.

GCSE

Applicants must demonstrate a broad general education including at least five GCSEs at minimum grade C/4, including at least a Grade 4 or C in GCSE/IGCSE English Language and Mathematics. GCSE/IGCSE English Literature will not be accepted in lieu of GCSE/IGCSE English Language.

Please note that if you hold English as a second language IGCSE qualification, we may also require you to offer one of  our acceptable equivalent English Language qualifications  or achieve a higher grade in your IGCSE than the one stated above. Please contact the admissions team in your academic School/Department for clarification.

International Baccalaureate

We require 32 points overall with grades 5,5,5 in higher level subjects.

We will consider a number of other comparable qualifications, studied in the UK and internationally. If you have any queries about your particular qualification, please email ug.publichealth@manchester.ac.uk

Other international entry requirements

We welcome applications from overseas students. Country-specific information can be found on the University website. However, this is for general information only, as specific entry requirements may be different for the BSc Public Health. Please contact us at ug.publichealth@manchester.ac.uk Ìýto check specific requirements for your country before you apply for the course.

For applicants taking Advanced Placement exams, we require a minimum of three AP exams with grades 4 4 4. This must be accompanied by a GCSE equivalent qualification such as a high school diploma.

Scottish requirements

We require grades ABBBB to include one of: Biology, Human Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Statistics, Mathematics, Further Maths, Psychology, Geography, Geology, Environmental Science, Applied Science, Computer Science.

Welsh Baccalaureate

We welcome and recognise the value of the Baccalaureate Wales and accept the Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales (replacing the Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate from September 2023)

The minimum grade required will normally be the same as the lowest grade listed in the A Level entry requirements.

European Baccalaureate

The University of 91ɬÂþ welcomes applicants with the European Baccalaureate. Acceptable on its own or in combination with other qualifications, applications from students studying for this qualification are welcome and all applicants will be considered on an individual basis.

AQA Baccalaureate

The University recognises the benefits of the AQA Baccalaureate and the opportunities it provides for applicants to develop independent study and research skills. In making offers, the University will focus on the three A-levels taken within the AQA Baccalaureate. Students need to check the standard A-level requirements for their chosen course. The units of broader study, enrichment activities and the Extended Project are considered to be valuable elements of the AQA Baccalaureate, and we would therefore strongly encourage students to draw upon these experiences within their personal statement.

Foundation year

We consider your full educational background. A decision about your suitability for this course will not be taken based solely on the foundation year completed, and will include all prior qualifications.

Applicants completing the INTO 91ɬÂþ in partnership with The University of 91ɬÂþ international foundation programme are required to achieve BBB in any subjects, with EAP B (6.5) and C (6.0) in each component.

Pearson BTEC qualifications

Pearson BTEC National Extended Diploma

We consider the National Extended Diploma for entry provided it is in a subject relevant to the chosen course (e.g. Health and Social Care). Entry requirements are based on achievement of the full National Extended Diploma with grades DDD.

Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma

We consider the National Diploma for entry in a subject relevant to the chosen course (e.g. Health and Social Care). Entry requirements are based on achievement of the full National Diploma with grades DD plus an additional A-level at grade B.

Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Foundation Diploma

We consider the National Foundation Diploma in a subject relevant to the chosen course (e.g. Health and Social Care). Entry requirements are based on achievement of the full National Foundation Diploma with grades DD plus two additional A-levels at grade BB.

Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate

We consider the National Extended Certificate for entry in a subject relevant to the chosen course (e.g. Health and Social Care). Entry requirements are based on achievement of the full National Extended Certificate with grade D plus two additional A-levels at grades BB.

OCR Cambridge Technical qualifications

Cambridge Level 3 Technical Extended Diploma (CTEC)

We consider the Technical Extended Diploma for entry provided it is in a subject relevant to the chosen course (CTEC Health and Social Care or Applied Science). Entry requirements are based on achievement of the full Technical Extended Diploma with grades DDD with one-third of the units undertaken in science or science related subjects.

Cambridge Level 3 Technical Diploma (CTEC)

We consider the Technical Diploma for entry. Entry requirements are based on achievement of the full Technical Diploma with grades DD plus an additional A-level at grade B. Either the Technical Diploma or the A-level must be in a science or health-related subject such as Biology, Chemistry, Psychology, Sociology, Health and Social Care, or Applied Science.

Cambridge Level 3 Technical Foundation Diploma (CTEC)

We consider the Technical Foundation Diploma for entry. Entry requirements are based on achievement of the full Technical Foundation Diploma with grades DD plus two A-levels at Grades BB. Either the Technical Foundation Diploma or the A-levels must be in a science or health-related subject such as Biology, Chemistry, Psychology, Sociology, Health and Social Care or Applied Science.

Cambridge Level 3 Technical Extended Certificate (CTEC)

We consider the Technical Extended Certificate for entry. Entry requirements are based on achievement of the full Technical Extended Certificate with grade D plus two A-levels at grades BB. Either the Technical Extended Certificate or the A-level must be in a science or health-related subject such as Biology, Chemistry, Psychology, Sociology, Health and Social Care or Applied Science.

Access to HE Diploma

We require a QAA-recognised Access to HE diploma (a minimum of 60 credits overall with at least 45 at Level 3). The specific course requirements are: of the 45 credits at level 3, 30 must be at Distinction grade and the remaining 15 credits at merit grade. Also, 30 of the 45 level 3 credits must be in science or health-science related subjects. You must also have GCSE English Language and Mathematics at grade C or above. We no longer accept equivalents to GCSE for English and Maths. We also consider other factors on an individual basis, such as additional educational achievements, life experience and work related skills.

Cambridge Pre-U

We consider applicants offering Pre-U Principal Subjects, or a mix of Pre-U and A-level subjects, provided a minimum of three distinct subjects overall is taken. Candidates taking Pre-U principal subjects in conjunction with A-levels are expected to achieve a combination of M1, M1, M2 in the Pre-U and BBB at A-level in three distinct subjects to include at least one science or science related subject (Biology, Chemistry, Psychology, Sociology, Health and Social Care, or Applied Science). If you require further clarification about the acceptability of this qualification, please contact the Academic School(s) you plan to apply to.

T Level

We will accept the Science, Healthcare Science and Health pathways only and require an overall grade of merit. Contextual offers do not currently apply to applicants offering T-Level qualifications.

Further information on contextual admissions can be found here.

Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)

The University recognises the benefits of the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) and the opportunities it provides for applicants to develop independent study and research skills. Although the Extended Project will not be included in the conditions of your offer, we strongly encourage you to provide information about the EPQ in your personal statement. A number of our academic Schools may also choose to take your performance in the EPQ into account should places be available in August for applicants who narrowly miss the entry grades for their chosen course.

Core Maths

The University welcomes and recognises the value of Level 3 core mathematics qualifications (eg AQA Certificate in Mathematical Studies).

Core Mathematics is not a compulsory element of post-16 study and as a result we will not normally include it in the conditions of any offer made to the student. However, if a student chooses to undertake a core mathematics qualification this may be taken into account when we consider their application, particularly for certain non-science courses with a distinct mathematical or statistical element.

Please note, this course accepts grade C in Core Mathematics in lieu of the correct grade in GCSE Mathematics.

Home-schooled applicants

If you have followed a non-standard educational route and have been, for example, educated at home, your application will be considered against the standard entry criteria of the course to which you applied. You will be required to demonstrate that you meet the academic entry requirements as specified for the course. We will also require a reference which should be written by somebody who knows you well enough, in an official capacity, to write about you and your suitability for higher education. Please refer to UCAS for further information:

Non-standard educational routes

Mature students are some of our most well-equipped learners, bringing skills and attributes gained from work, family and other life experiences. Students come from a whole array of backgrounds, study every kind of course and are motivated by career intentions as well as personal interest. There is no such thing as a typical mature student at 91ɬÂþ. The application process is the same as for other prospective undergraduates. If you require further clarification about the acceptability of the qualifications you hold please contact the academic School(s) you plan to apply to. Further information for mature students can be found on the

English language

All applicants to the University (from the UK and Overseas) are required to show evidence of English Language proficiency. The minimum English Language requirement for this course is either:

GCSE/IGCSE English Language grade 4/C, or;

IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any component or;

An acceptable equivalent qualification.

Please note that if you hold English as a second language IGCSE qualification, we may also require you to offer one of  our acceptable equivalent English Language qualifications  or achieve a higher grade in your IGCSE than the one stated above. Please contact the academic School for clarification.

If you need to improve your English language skills to meet the entry requirements for your academic course, the University Centre for Academic English (UCAE) summer pre-sessional courses can help. Check if your academic course offers the option of taking a pre-sessional course on the .

The requires that every student requiring a visa to study in the UK must show evidence of a (common European Framework (CEFR B2 level) to be granted a Student Route visa (previously known as a Tier 4 visa) to study at undergraduate or postgraduate level.

In addition, our academic Schools/Departments may require applicants to demonstrate English proficiency above the B2 level. Further information about our English Language policy, including a list of some of the English Language qualifications we accept, can be found  .

English language test validity

Some English Language test results are only valid for two years. Your English Language test report must be valid on the start date of the course.

Application and selection

How to apply

Advice to applicants

We would normally only consider applicants who have obtained the relevant qualifications. Applicants should contact the Admissions Office to discuss their particular circumstances.

Please note we are only able to provide a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) for a student visa to applicants on this full-time face-to-face course, and not the distance learning option. Please contact the admissions team for further information.

How your application is considered

Applications are considered on the basis of the UCAS form.

Deferrals

Applications for deferred entry are considered equally to other applications up to the point of confirmation. Requests for deferred entry are granted at the discretion of admissions staff and are normally granted for one year only. Some English Language test results, such as IELTS or TOEFL, are only valid for two years from the test date. Your English Language test report must be valid on the start date of the course.

Policy for applicants who resit their qualifications

The University will consider applicants who have re-sat individual modules. If you have re-sat your final examinations we may consider your application in exceptional circumstances. Please contact us to discuss this before you apply.

Re-applications

If you applied in the previous year and your application was not successful, you may apply again. Your application will be considered against the standard course entry criteria for that year of entry. In your new application, you should demonstrate how your application has improved. We may draw upon all information from your previous applications or any previous registrations at the University as a student when assessing your suitability for your chosen course. If you are applying for a place for the same year of entry through UCAS Extra, you should provide additional evidence of your suitability for the course. If you are applying through clearing, you are required to meet the clearing requirements. In both UCAS Extra and clearing the places will be subject to availability.

Course details

Course description

The lecturers and other students are so supportive.

Everyone has knowledge and experiences to bring.

Ayeesha Roberts / Master of Public Health

Why study public health?

The field of public health is diverse, offering a variety of career paths depending on what you are most interested in. From working in local public health departments to international organisations, there are many opportunities available to you as a public health professional.

Our course

In choosing 91ɬÂþ you can be confident you are receiving the most up-to-date knowledge in public health. You will be taught by experts in the field that bring the latest developments in the sector to your course, and you will use of the world-class learning facilities on campus.

You will be prepared for a career in public health that offers a range of local and global opportunities. You will also develop a range of transferable skills and knowledge that employers are looking for.

This course will equip you with:

  • the skills and knowledge to apply to public health concerns at local, national and international level;
  • the ability to apply relevant theory and scientific principles to practical situations;
  • the capability of meeting core competencies in public health.

Special features

Support Ìý

You will receive an individual student support package, which includes regular meetings with your personal academic advisor throughout the course.

Become an employable graduate

Our graduates are highly employable. We are the most targeted university by the UK s top 100 graduate recruiters (The Graduate Market 2022).

There is also plenty of opportunity to ensure you graduate with a unique set of skills and experience by taking part in our Public Health Professional Development programme. Through this you could attend a range of events including the Geneva Winter School, international festivals and summer schools, and undertake CPD courses and seminars. Ìý

91ɬÂþ Experience

You will be welcomed toÌýour Russell Group university,Ìýand all the city of 91ɬÂþÌýhas to offer.

On-campus interactions are important to support the building of academic communities for staff and students, creating a sense of belonging with the University, and the forming of lifelong friendships.

In addition to our expert teaching staff, you'll have access to a huge range of print and digital resources to guide you as you learn. We have one of the best-resourced academic libraries in the country.

Our campus is not just a place of life-changing study and revolutionary academic discoveries, it's one of inspirational spaces, hidden gems and world-famous culture. It's friendly, self-contained and brings together a multicultural community of more than 40,000 students from 177 countries to study, relax and get involved in university life.

Teaching and learning

Expert teaching

You will be taught by professionals working in the field of local, national and international public health. There is an emphasis on applying your learning to real life public health issues to prepare you for an exciting career.

Teaching and learning methods

You will learn through a range of interactive, student-centred teaching and learning sessions. You will be encouraged to develop your independent learning skills, this will be supported through active learning methods such as collaborative enquiry, critical analysis and problem-based learning.

Exercises will use real-world examples from appropriate settings, for example from public health practice, globally and nationally. You will also be encouraged to improve existing and develop new communication skills and digital capabilities.

You will be able to put into practice what you learn, with opportunities to interact with other students and tutors through dedicated discussion groups. Some units offer exercises based on group work through discussions. These exercises develop the skills required by professional public health roles, such as planning and managing a project, and working as part of a team to deliver a project.

Each course unit is a combination of interactive face-to-face sessions and independent study. You will be supported to work through these units independently and guided by peer and tutor support. A unit-specific calendar will be made available in the first week of all units.

Learn with students from around the world

You will be able to mix with students from a range of backgrounds. Through the sharing of experiences, you will be able to broaden your understanding of different perspectives and policies that affect how public health is seen and used.

Induction

Your induction is a great way to meet staff and students, these will be your friends and support group while you are studying. You will also be given an overview of all aspects of the course, preparing you for your study.

Stellify

is a university initiative to develop your leadership skills and encourage community volunteering. To achieve the Stellify award, you have to demonstrate all three of the volunteering and leadership activities.

Coursework and assessment

You will be assessed by a variety of methods that will allow you to demonstrate your abilities and knowledge.

Each unit assessment will provide you with the opportunity to show you have met the learning outcomes. There are no formal examinations. We use a variety of assessment methods which include assignments, presentations, literature reviews and project reports.

Self-assessments

Throughout the course there will be the chance for you to test your factual knowledge through self-assessment and assignments and quizzes.

Feedback

You will receive regular quality feedback allowing you to track your progress throughout the course and identify any areas that might need improvement.

Feedback will vary from unit to unit but may include:

  • feedback by tutors and fellow students in discussion groups;
  • automated feedback from self-tests or quizzes;
  • peer review exercises;
  • reflective exercises.

Course unit details

You will take mandatory 10 or 20-credit units each year and a final larger dissertation project in your final year (120 credits in total per year).

We have based the course on the pillars of public health practice, health promotion, health protection, healthcare public health and included global health examples.

Course content includes:

  • Principles of public health
  • Evidence based practice
  • Health improvement
  • Health protection
  • Healthcare public health
  • Global health

You will learn and present your work through a range of methods including video presentations, research posters, professional public health reports, and a final public health project.

Course content for year 1

Course units for year 1

The course unit details given below are subject to change, and are the latest example of the curriculum available on this course of study.

TitleCodeCredit ratingMandatory/optional
Entrepreneurial Skills MCEL10002 10 Mandatory
Measuring Population Health and Well-being POPH10011 20 Mandatory
Global Health and the Sustainable Development Goals POPH10022 20 Mandatory
Introduction to Health Inequalities and Health Promotion POPH10031 20 Mandatory
Introduction to Health Protection POPH10042 20 Mandatory
Healthcare Settings and their Management POPH10052 10 Mandatory
Principles and Planning for Public Health POPH10091 20 Mandatory
Student development programme POPH10800 0 Mandatory

Course content for year 2

Course units for year 2

The course unit details given below are subject to change, and are the latest example of the curriculum available on this course of study.

TitleCodeCredit ratingMandatory/optional
Introduction to Consultancy: Social Enterprise and Community Impact MCEL20042 20 Mandatory
Essential Enterprise: Venture Thinking for Social Challenges MCEL20051 10 Mandatory
Study designs for population health and well-being research POPH20011 20 Mandatory
Globalisation and the Commercial Determinants of Health POPH20022 20 Mandatory
Health Promotion through the Life Course POPH20031 20 Mandatory
Infection Prevention and Control POPH20042 10 Mandatory
Literature Review Project POPH20060 20 Mandatory
Student development programme POPH20800 0 Mandatory

Course content for year 3

Course units for year 3

The course unit details given below are subject to change, and are the latest example of the curriculum available on this course of study.

TitleCodeCredit ratingMandatory/optional
Enterprise in Healthcare MCEL30122 10 Mandatory
Population health and well-being research in the real world POPH30011 20 Mandatory
Political Aspects of Public Health POPH30031 20 Mandatory
Health Protection in Action POPH30042 20 Mandatory
Engagement and Participation in the Community Setting POPH30052 10 Mandatory
Public Health Dissertation Yr 3 POPH30060 40 Mandatory
Student Development Programme Yr3 POPH30800 0 Mandatory

What our students say

My course offered international collaboration with students from around the world, which was second to none.

The entire Public Health department is made up of genuinely world-class, approachable and constantly forward-thinking researchers and lecturers.

Mikhail Foster / Master of Public Health (2019 graduate)
Find out more about what it's like to study at 91ɬÂþ on the

Facilities

Library and online services

The University of 91ɬÂþ offers extensive to help you get the most out of your studies.

Additional resources

We offer innovative, research-led, learning tools to enhance your understanding and enable learning.

You will be provided with a range of student support facilities within the School of Health Sciences, including an allocated Academic Advisor who will support your throughout your studies.

Disability support

Disabled students make up over 19% of The University of 91ɬÂþ student population, and we're proud to offer an accessible and inclusive service. (DASS) provides equity services to everyone regardless of people's age, disability, gender, gender identity, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation.

DASS supports a variety of different groups, whether students, staff or supporters. We provide practical support by working with you to identify the practical adjustments you need to enable you to succeed - in your studies, work, and the rest of your university experience.

Careers

Career opportunities

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Where can you go with a public health degree?

A career in public health offers diverse opportunities in a variety of settings, from local public health departments to global NGOs (non-government organisations).

This course is a great step towards a career in one of the following areas:

  • Public health practitioner
  • Consultant in public health
  • Public health manager
  • Public health officer
  • Epidemiologist
  • Biostatistician
  • Health educator
  • Public health statistician /assistant
  • Public health intelligence analyst/ assistant
  • Public health researcher/research assistant
  • Community development worker
  • Environmental health worker
  • Transport development worker
  • Housing officer
  • Health improvement practitioner
  • Lecturer in public health
  • Public health trainer
  • Health protection specialist
  • Health-related communication or marketing officer
  • Fundraising and charity work to help improve the lives of vulnerable people
  • Occupational health

You could also explore a range of related areas such as town planning and urban development, mentoring and counselling, food sustainability and climate change or teaching.

There are a range of careers resources offered by the University and the Faculty of Public Health, which is a membership organisation for public health professionals in the UK and around the world.

To aid your career path, you can find additional advice and resources here:

  • (University Careers Service)
  • - information for students looking for opportunities outside the UK (University Careers Service)
  • (Faculty of Public Health) Professional development opportunities

Our BSc Public Health students will have access to our paid PPD (personal professional development) courses for free. This access enables students to further develop their skills and knowledge above and beyond the scope of their degree.

Check out about her plans now she has graduated.