Expert insight: Your top questions about studying a Master of Public Health online answered

Our recent Explore Aston Online’s Master of Public Health (MPH) webinar brought together prospective students from across the world. Guided by Programme Director Dr Alexis Paton and Student Recruitment Advisor Rhys Bell from Admissions, the session became an open conversation shaped by the questions that came through the live chat.

This article uses the questions asked in the webinar and the guidance Alexis shared in response. These blend practical information with her teaching philosophy and experience applied to Aston University Online’s Master of Public Health (MPH) programme.

1. What are the entry requirements for applying for the online Master of Public Health with Aston University?

The webinar opened with admissions queries. Rhys explained that applicants typically need a UK 2:2 undergraduate degree or an accepted international equivalent. Students whose first language is not English will need to submit evidence of English language proficiency.

A participant asked whether extensive professional experience could be considered. Alexis emphasised that public health attracts people from varied backgrounds, and Aston recognises this.

“Public health welcomes different types of expertise,” she said. “Your experience becomes part of how you learn and contribute.”

If you want to understand how professional experience may support your application, explore Alternative entry routes into undergraduate and postgraduate programmes at Aston University Online.

2. What does the Master of Public Health programme cover?

As student questions moved toward programme content, Alexis explained that the MPH spans foundations of public health, epidemiology, research methods, behavioural science, health promotion, inequality, and global public health systems.

One participant asked what sets public health apart from clinical practice. Alexis answered, “Public health is shaped by context. To understand why one group is healthy, and another is not, you must understand the environment they live in.”

She added, “Inequality is at the centre of modern public health. You cannot improve outcomes without understanding the conditions people face.” This lens guides the entire Master of Public Health (MPH) programme.

3. What are the key skills taught in the Master of Public Health online?

This was one of the most lively parts of the webinar. Students wanted to know what they would learn and how practical the experience would be.

Alexis described the skills as “tools you can take straight into practice.” These include the ability to:

• interpret and analyse population-level data
• design and evaluate interventions
• work with qualitative and quantitative methods
• understand behaviour change theory
• communicate findings to practitioners, policymakers, and communities.

Another student asked about leadership. Alexis replied, “You often work across agencies or communities in public health. We help you learn how to collaborate, but we also help you learn how to lead.”

4. What does the programme structure for the MPH online entail?

The MPH is delivered part-time over two years, with students focusing on one module at a time. This structure supports working professionals and those balancing personal responsibilities.

Alexis shared her own experience learning online. “Some topics click right away. Others take a few reviews. Online learning gives you the space to take the time you need.”

Students typically study 15 to 25 hours per week, adjusting their schedule according to the module. Time management strategies for busy online students can help you plan your schedule effectively.

Get acquainted with our Aston Online Digital Campus before you enrol to feel comfortable and familiar with the environment.

5. What modules will I study?

During the webinar, Alexis guided attendees through the six-module structure:

• Foundations of public health
• Approaches to public health
• Methodologies of public health
• Emerging areas in public health
• Aston global advantage
• MPH dissertation

Each module builds upon the former, progressing from a foundational understanding to applied practice and research.

6. What are the career prospects for an MPH graduate?

Students wanted to know where the MPH could take them. Alexis explained that graduates work across the NHS, local authorities, non-profit organisations, research institutions, and global health organisations.

Some move into epidemiology or health research while others advance into leadership roles or community-based positions. A few refocus their clinical careers through a public health lens.

For students exploring specific roles, our article titled “Shape Public Health Systems with an Online Master of Public Health” highlights some of the areas the programme may lead you to.

7. What benefits does an MPH have for someone with a cumulative degree and over six years of experience?

A midwife with six years of experience asked whether studying for an MPH meant moving away from clinical work. Alexis reassured her that experience like hers strengthens public health work rather than competes with it.

“Public health plays a major role in maternal and early childhood health,” she said. “An MPH can support roles in screening programmes, community initiatives, policy, or leadership. Your experience becomes a strength, not a barrier.”

This applies across many professional backgrounds.

8. Will the Aston Online MPH programme be coursework-assessed or include exams?

Rhys explained that assessment takes the form of coursework and a final written assignment in each module. These are typically essays or reports rather than timed exams.

This format facilitates deep reflection and aligns with the way public health professionals communicate findings in practice.

9. How long does the dissertation module last?

The dissertation spans five to six months, supported by one-to-one supervision. Students design and conduct an independent research project.

When asked how to choose a topic, Alexis recommended choosing one that feels personally meaningful.

“You will spend months with your question,” she said. “Choose something that matters to you.”

10. Will there be an opportunity for group work learning?

Yes. Students collaborate through discussion forums, shared activities, and occasional group tasks. Some attendees were concerned about remote collaboration, but Alexis explained that online teamwork mirrors real public health practice.

“Many public health teams work remotely,” she said. “Learning how to collaborate online prepares you for the field.”

Find out more in our article, “How Online Learners at Aston Online Build Real Connections and Professional Networks.”

11. Will I be able to attend the graduation ceremony?

Yes. Online students are invited to attend Aston’s in-person graduation and celebrate alongside their cohort.

12. Could my research idea span across the NHS and into the community?

This was one of the final questions from the live session. Alexis confirmed that students can design research that spans systems, as long as it meets ethical and practical requirements.

“The boundaries are simple,” she said. “It must be ethical, achievable, and meaningful.”

What support will I receive?

To close the session, Rhys outlined the support available throughout the programme. Students have access to a dedicated success team, academic tutors, career guidance, online learning resources, flexible payment plans, and 24-hour access to the Digital Campus. Find out more in How online learners at Aston Online build real connections and professional networks.

What to do next

If the webinar and this recap have helped you understand the programme, you can explore what the application process looks like.

As you consider your next steps, you may find these pages helpful:

• Alternative entry routes into undergraduate and postgraduate programmes at Aston University Online
• Your guide to navigating the Aston Online Digital Campus
• Fees and funding
• Student support
• How to qualify for UK undergraduate and postgraduate student loans for Aston University Online

Build your future in public health

The questions that shaped this webinar shared a common theme. Students wanted a meaningful career, the flexibility to study around life commitments, and reassurance that they could succeed at postgraduate level. The online MPH is designed with those realities in mind. It prepares you to understand complex health challenges and lead solutions that make a measurable difference.

Explore the programme, speak with an advisor, or begin your application to get your career started.