MSc in Public Health

Overview

The Master of Science in Public Health (MScPH) programme at the University of Kurdistan Hewlêr (UKH) is designed to address critical public health challenges. The MScPH programme will enhance academic reputation, foster research collaborations, and attract students seeking specialized public health training. It will also play a vital role in improving the Kurdistan Region’s health system by developing skilled professionals capable of addressing major health concerns. The programme’s focus on epidemiology, health promotion, and policy development will prepare graduates to lead interventions that improve health outcomes, reduce health disparities, and strengthen healthcare infrastructure.

Admission Requirements

• Undergraduate Degree: Undergraduate degree in medical sciences (o Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Public health or Community health, Nursing, Biomedical sciences and Other health-related sciences.).
• Undergraduate Degree: Minimum undergraduate average of 60%
• Experience: at least 2 years’ experience or an equivalent voluntary work in an area of public health is preferred
• English Language Proficiency: Minimum English Language requirement is 50 in PTE – 6.0 in IELTS -74 in TOEFL iBT or 105 in Duolingo.
• All applicants are required to submit a valid English language proficiency test from the list above, including graduates of English-medium universities.
• School Interview.
• Letters of Recommendation: : two recommendation letters are required on submission of the application form, preferably one of which will be from a university academic staff.
• Equalised transcript is required for students who have graduated from international institutions.

• Application Form: Online application form is required.
• Official Transcripts: Provide a copy of your undergraduate transcript with your application. A copy of your CV.
• A copy of your passport and national ID.

Curriculum

The MScPH is a two-year postgraduate program.

The first year is dedicated to taught modules that cover key aspects of public health. The second year is dedicated to the MSc thesis.

Skills Development

Upon successful completion of the Master of Science in Public Health (MScPH) programme, graduates will be able to:

1. Demonstrate a comprehensive and critical understanding of public health functions and frameworks, identifying and addressing complex and contemporary public health issues through evidence-informed solutions.
2. Analyse and apply knowledge of public health systems, policy-making processes, and leadership models, including health system building blocks, in the design and delivery of effective public health programmes.
3. Critically evaluate healthcare financing mechanisms and health economic evaluation tools and apply them to assess the efficiency and sustainability of public health interventions.
4. Synthesise and appraise public health research, policies, and practice models, and integrate relevant literature and global evidence to inform decision-making in diverse professional contexts.
5. Utilise epidemiological methods and health data effectively to assess population health needs, prioritise action, and support the development of policies, programmes, and procedures that promote health and reduce inequalities.
6. Design and conduct independent public health research, applying rigorous methodological and statistical principles with a high level of autonomy, and communicate findings clearly to academic, professional, and lay audiences.
7. Plan, implement, and evaluate public health interventions, using appropriate frameworks to enhance the health and wellbeing of individuals, families, and communities.
8. Apply advanced written and oral communication strategies, including digital tools, to engage with diverse audiences and stakeholders in promoting public health values and initiatives.
9. Work effectively within interdisciplinary and multicultural teams, and demonstrate leadership, collaboration, and responsiveness in addressing the needs of communities and populations.