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Master of Public Health (MPH)
MPH (Online)
Ready to lead health programmes, develop policy, and drive impactful research? Our online Master of Public Health (MPH) programme equips you with the knowledge and leadership skills to improve health outcomes at scale. Build expertise in epidemiology, health systems, and global health challenges, preparing you for influential roles across government, non-profits, and international organisations.
Study 100% online, learn from specialists through Aston’s Digital Campus, and join a supportive, global community all committed to shaping healthier futures, locally and globally.
Start dateJanuary, May, September
Apply now for any date
January, May, September
Apply now for any date
Funding options include UK government loans for eligible students, scholarships, and flexible payment plans. A deposit is required to secure your place
Two years (part-time)
Flexible distance learning
Study online with a globally recognised, Top 5% evaluated institution for £12,500. Flexible payments from £520 per month
Why choose this programme
A globally recognised Master of Public Health, built around flexibility, impact and professional development.
The Aston Online Master of Public Health is delivered by a university ranked among the top 5% globally in the QS World University Rankings and recognised as University of the Year for Student Success in the Daily Mail University Guide 2025. These recognitions reflect Aston University's commitment to student experience, support, and achievement.
Address complex public health challenges: Build knowledge of public health issues, including infectious diseases, non-communicable diseases, mental health, health inequalities, and population health.
Develop leadership and public health expertise: Gain knowledge of epidemiology, health promotion, and public health evaluation, while strengthening your ability to contribute to public health initiatives and services.
Build research and critical thinking skills: Develop the skills to analyse health data, evaluate evidence, and undertake an independent research project focused on a public health issue of interest.
Study alongside your existing commitments: Learn flexibly online, with no compulsory live lectures or fixed schedules. Focus on one module and one assessment at a time while balancing study with work and personal responsibilities.
Your tuition includes access to Aston's e-library, dedicated academic support and a collaborative online learning environment, supporting you throughout your studies as you develop your public health knowledge and research capabilities.
Programme overview
What does it take to prevent disease, improve health systems, and reduce inequalities that affect millions of lives? Public health answers these questions by addressing the root causes of poor health and building strategies that lead to lasting change.
Our online Master of Public Health (MPH) programme takes a comprehensive look at the forces shaping public health today. You’ll explore topics such as global health, epidemiology, health promotion, behavioural change, and the role of data and emerging technologies in improving outcomes. Alongside this, you’ll gain practical skills to design, implement, and evaluate interventions that address urgent challenges like chronic disease, mental health, and health disparities.
Throughout your studies, you’ll develop core competencies in research, leadership, and communication – essential for high-impact roles that involve influencing policy, managing programmes, or advancing public health strategies at local, national, and international levels. Your final research project offers the opportunity to explore a real-world issue you care about, guided by experienced academic staff with strong public health expertise.
Delivered fully online and part-time, the MPH is structured to fit around your professional and personal commitments. You’ll study one module at a time through Aston’s Digital Campus, with access to high-quality resources, interactive case studies, and a collaborative global learning community.
Whether you’re currently working in health or planning a career shift into the sector, this programme will prepare you to lead meaningful, measurable change in the systems and communities that need it most.
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What you will learn
- Apply advanced public health knowledge: Critically evaluate key issues in public health using specialised knowledge and research skills.
- Reflect on practice and policy: Examine how place, theory, technology, and advocacy influence professional practice in public health.
- Solve complex public health challenges: Investigate, analyse, and synthesise complex information affecting public health outcomes.
- Collaborate and lead effectively: Work in multidisciplinary teams to design public health initiatives and reflect on essential leadership and management skills.
- Use data to drive change: Apply epidemiological data, critical appraisal, and evaluation techniques to assess public health initiatives.
- Conduct independent research: Work autonomously to create and analyse original qualitative and/or quantitative public health datasets.
- Understand context and inequality: Explore how context, place, inequality, and inequity shape public health needs and responses.
Flexible payment plans and funding options
We are ranked in the Top 5% of evaluated institutions
QS World University Rankings 2026
It’s been an exciting time at Aston University, with amazing new achievements that highlight our teaching excellence, outstanding student outcomes, and strong performance in global and UK rankings. Here are just a few highlights:
- Aston University is now ranked in the Top 5% of global universities (Top 5% evaluated institutions, QS World University Rankings).
- Aston University has been named the University of the Year for Student Success 2025 in the new Daily Mail University Guide.
- Aston University is 2nd in the country for Social Mobility (Higher Education Policy Institute).
And that’s just the beginning. Watch our video to discover more.
Top 5% of Global Universities
The university has risen over 165 places in three years and is now ranked in the top 400 in the world (QS World University Rankings 2026)
I decided to pursue the online route because it afforded me the flexibility of learning while juggling my life as a career wife and mom. It also meant I was able to learn at my own pace within each module timeline.
Career prospects
A career in public health is exciting and full of possibilities. With a degree in Public Health, you could work in local councils, government, the NHS, or with NGOs and third-sector organisations around the world.
Career prospects you can look forward to:
Epidemiologist: A public health professional who investigates the patterns, causes, and effects of diseases and injuries in populations.
Public health researcher: A professional who investigates health trends, risks, and solutions within populations, aiming to improve community well-being and inform public health policy.
Health informatics specialist: A professional who bridges healthcare, information technology, and data management to improve patient care, streamline clinical processes, and ensure the secure and efficient handling of health information.
Environmental health practitioner: A professional dedicated to protecting public health by ensuring safe and healthy environments in which people live, work, and play.
Programme structure
This programme is studied over two years part-time. In each year you will study three modules, worth 30 credits each. Each credit of study is the equivalent of 10 learning hours and so each 30-credit module reflects 300 hours of learning.
Modules
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Foundations of public health'%3e%3cpath%20d='M11%2013H5V11H11V5H13V11H19V13H13V19H11V13Z'%20fill='%231C1B1F'/%3e%3c/g%3e%3c/svg%3e)
30 credits
This module will introduce and integrate key concepts, theories, methods, and topics on the foundational concepts in public health, such as health promotion, the sociology of health and illness, health policy, global health, and basic research methods.
The module also includes reflective activities that require students to critically evaluate the role of health promotion practitioners and the key skills needed for effective public health practice.
Approaches to public health
30 credits
This module examines different approaches to public health. It examines the role that epidemiology, health promotion, and behavioural health interventions play in understanding and improving population-level and individual-level health and healthcare.
Methodologies of public health
30 credits
Using relevant case studies from across public health, this module will explore the variety of methodologies and approaches that can be used in public health, including qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods, as well as key considerations on research ethics and public health ethics.
Emerging areas in public health
30 credits
This module will explore the current issues and emerging areas in public health and the interdisciplinarity with other sectors. The module will look into diverse aspects related to population health, including digital health, artificial intelligence, precision health, environmental health, climate change, health diplomacy, migration, complex health emergencies, and other major trends.
Aston global advantage and research methods
30 credits
This module aims to provide students with a distinct global advantage through the teaching of the fundamental principles behind sustainable development, business pitching, team-working and leadership within relevant contexts. The module allows students to showcase their expertise within their discipline by proposing a novel, digital solution to a business challenge drawn from real-world case studies and live project briefs.
MPH dissertation
30 credits
The module provides an opportunity to undertake an independent research project. The topic and methodology are chosen through consultation with and guidance from an academic supervisor. Your research may address any public health issue/problem and use any appropriate method(s) that has been approved by your supervisor. The module aims to develop your capacities for designing, conducting, and presenting public health research; undertaking independent work; and extending your critical, methodological, and organisational abilities.
Learning outcomes
Module 1
- Discuss and understand social, commercial, economic and political factors that influence local and global health, including the context of place in public health.
- Identify how theory can be used practically to inform the design of health promotion interventions.
- Apply and critically discuss basic terms, concepts, measurements and evaluations related to population health and health inequalities.
- Demonstrate an understanding of the public health interventions that can be used to address social and commercial determinants of health at a population, community and individual level.
- Demonstrate a critical understanding of the impact of specific industrial sectors on health.
- Demonstrate an understanding and critical awareness of a range of contemporary (global) health issues.
- Independently and critically identify specific health problems and formulate solutions using appropriate methods and correct use of evidence.
Module 2
- Understand epidemiology and its relevance for public health.
- Describe and apply measures of frequency of disease (incidence, prevalence, risk, rate, odds) association (risk ratio, rates ratio, odds ratio, relative and absolute risk, etc.) and effect.
- Explain the principles, strengths, and limitations underlying different epidemiological studies (e.g. cross-sectional, cohort, case-control).
- Identify problems caused by random errors, bias, and confounding in interpreting epidemiological data.
- Interpret statistical analyses to describe the occurrence and distribution of disease and its determinants.
- Acquire skills in statistical software used for epidemiological analyses.
- Describe health behaviour theories that underpin the design and evaluation of health promotion strategies and public health interventions.
- Identify how theory can be used practically to inform the design of health promotion interventions.
- Illustrate some of the dilemmas raised by health promotion activities, especially those that focus on individual behaviour.
- Outline the difficulties of evaluating outcomes of health promotion strategies and screening programmes.
- Understand the criteria for implementing a screening programme (including those relating to the condition, the test, the treatment, and the programme).
Module 3
- Review and understand the different methods that can be mobilised in public health studies and analyses, outlining their characteristics and scope.
- Demonstrate an understanding of how different research methods fit different research objectives.
- Understand the different types of formats and documents that can be used to disseminate public health knowledge.
- Become familiar with online platforms and software packages that can be used to store or process information regarding public health.
- Understand how a public health study can be designed, justified, and proposed.
Module 4
- Discuss the current issues impacting public health in contemporary society.
- Demonstrate an understanding and critical awareness of a range of trending and emerging public health issues.
- Understand and discuss the impact of emerging fields in public health, including the role of technology and innovation.
- Analyse case studies illustrating modern public health challenges and solutions.
- Understand the economic determinants of health and the relationship between health policies and international economic processes.
- Discuss the relationship and importance of interdisciplinary and collaboration in public health.
Module 5
- Evaluate your own competencies and areas for improvement within the context of working towards becoming a global professional.
- Design and communicate a solution to a real-world challenge with consideration to sustainable, ethical and social impact.
- Synthesise a range of requirements when proposing novel, sustainable, digital solutions to real-world challenges.
- Design an independent research proposal that is achievable, realistic and timely.
Module 6
- Demonstrate independent research skills, including the ability to think critically, conduct a literature review, develop research questions, a research plan, and research, design, and address issues fundamental to responsible research (e.g., data protection and ethics approval).
- Apply public health research skills relating to research methodology, application of theory, and analysis of data, to a real-world problem.
- Demonstrate an ability to produce a report according to prescribed standards, including an introduction, analysis and synthesis of relevant background literature, methods section, results, discussion, recommendations (where relevant) and conclusion.
- Demonstrate the ability to present, interpret and discuss research findings in relation to other studies and, where relevant, make recommendations in a clear and systematic format.
The programme aims to:
- Equip you with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to address public health challenges at a local, national and international level.
- Develop your critical understanding and application of foundational public health concepts, theory, and practice.
- Help you understand, interpret, and apply key concepts in epidemiology, including measures of disease and types of epidemiological studies, to address population-based health issues.
- Equip you to design and evaluate health promotion strategies that support healthy behaviours and lifestyles.
- Support you in implementing and evaluating public health interventions using behaviour change theories and frameworks.
- Familiarise you with various methodologies and approaches in public health for designing studies, collecting, analysing, and reporting public health information and data to support the improvement of health and lifestyles in a comprehensive, effective, and responsible way.
- Develop your critical understanding of the broader influences of different issues in public health and equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to address growing global and local challenges.
- Give you a global advantage by teaching the fundamentals of sustainable development, business pitching, teamwork, and leadership within an engineering context, enabling you to showcase your expertise by proposing innovative digital solutions to real-world business case studies and live project briefs.
- Develop your ability to design, conduct, and present public health research; work independently; and strengthen your critical thinking, methodological skills, and organisational capabilities.
*We may update our programmes to reflect best practices and academic developments. If we do, we’ll let you know of any changes at the earliest opportunity by updating our programme webpages. If you have already received an offer, we’ll write to you directly to let you know of the changes.
Unsure if you qualify?
Check your eligibility now or speak with our admissions team about alternative entry routes.
Is this programme right for you?
- You are driven to improve public health and ready to advance your career by gaining the leadership, research, and critical analysis skills needed to make a real impact in diverse settings.
- You want to address complex health challenges – locally, nationally, or internationally – by leading initiatives that tackle issues like infectious diseases, health inequalities, and mental health.
- You aspire to develop practical expertise in epidemiology, health promotion, and public health evaluation, empowering you to move into leadership roles, secure promotions, or access higher-paying opportunities.
- You are motivated by social justice and want to lead efforts that reduce health disparities, inform policy, and improve the well-being of underserved communities.
- You need a flexible, fully online, part-time programme that fits around your work and personal commitments, allowing you to study at your own pace from anywhere in the world.
Entry requirements
We carefully design our entry criteria to ensure every student begins their academic journey with Aston Online equipped with the foundational knowledge, potential, and personal qualities needed to succeed in their chosen programme. Our standards are not merely a threshold for entry; they are set to support student success and uphold the quality of the learning experience. Each student joins an intellectually challenging, personally rewarding programme, aligned with employers' expectations and the global job market.
Standard entry requirements
You will need one of the following:
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A UK 2:2 (lower second-class honours) degree
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An equivalent international degree recognised by Aston University
You will also need to provide:
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Evidence of mathematical ability beyond age 16
Acceptable evidence includes:
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A GCSE Maths qualification with a grade B/5 or above
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A university module that includes mathematical content (e.g. quantitative methods, epidemiology, or statistics)
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Statistics or quantitative methods studied as part of a research methods programme
You will need to provide:
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A copy of your bachelor's degree and transcripts (translated to English if necessary)
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Your curriculum vitae (CV)
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A professional reference
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Your ID
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Proof of English language (if applicable)
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GCSE Maths certificate (or international equivalent, if applicable) or proof of Maths capabilities
Non-standard entry routes
We take a holistic approach to evaluating applications, considering both your academic background and professional experience. If you don’t meet the standard entry requirements, you may still be considered if:
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You can demonstrate strong professional achievements or relevant qualifications
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Have at least three years of relevant work experience
You will need to provide:
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A personal statement detailing your motivations for undertaking this programme and how your background, qualifications, and experiences will help you meet its demands
Get in touch with a Student Advisor to check if you're eligible to enrol: enquiries@astononline.ac.uk.
International students
Every year, students from over 120 countries choose Aston, bringing with them a wide range of international degrees and qualifications. We recognise this diversity while maintaining rigorous academic standards, reflecting the global business landscape our graduates lead in.
A Student Recruitment Advisor can assess your degree equivalency on your behalf as part of the application process. You can also explore recognised qualifications by region, including Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, here. For personalised advice before applying, contact our Admissions Team at enquiries@astononline.ac.uk.
English language requirements
Applicants whose first language is not English must provide evidence of a recognised English language qualification, taken within the last two years and accepted by Aston University. If needed, we can provide an internationally accredited online English Language Assessment, which you can discuss with your Student Recruitment Advisor during the application process.
We accept a wide range of English language qualifications, including:
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IELTS Academic and IELTS Academic Online
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IELTS One Skill Retake
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TOEFL and TOEFL iBT
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Oxford ELLT (Global and Digital)
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Pearson Academic (PTE)
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Password Test
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Language Cert International ESOL SELT
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Kaplan Test of English (KTE)
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Cambridge Advanced Test (CAE)
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Cambridge Proficiency Test (CPE)
Find out if you qualify
If you have any questions about your eligibility or the application process, please get in touch with the Aston Online Admissions Team:
Email: enquiries@astononline.ac.uk
Call: +44 (0) 121 824 6374
Our office is open Monday to Friday, 09:00 - 17:00 GMT
FAQs
Is public health experience required?
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No, public health experience is not required.
Is there a difference between the MPH online and on-campus MPH degree?
Yes, the on-campus MPH is delivered in person and follows a different structure compared to the online version.
How can I personalise my learning journey to fit my career goals?
Advance your career with essential skills in epidemiology, health promotion, and public health evaluation, preparing you for leadership roles and impactful opportunities. You’ll also develop research expertise through a project focused on a public health issue that matters to you, while gaining the ability to address health inequalities, inform policy, and improve community well-being.
What professions can my online MPH degree lead to?
Careers you can look forward to include:
- Epidemiologist
- Public health researcher
- Health informatics specialist
- Environmental health practitioner
How will I be assessed?
You will engage in a variety of regular formative and timetabled summative assessment activities, where assessment modes and formats closely mirror relevant professional and industry contexts.
- You’ll be assessed through a range of applied coursework, including essays, reports, proposals, group tasks and a final research project. Assessments are designed to reflect real public health practice, helping you build research, analysis, and communication skills you can apply directly in your career.
- Formative assessment set by the module content will include short tasks, knowledge check tests, and production of outcomes to check knowledge and competence.
- A combination of tutor-graded practical coursework assignments, projects, and automated assessment formats will be used to provide a structured summative assessment for each module.
- In all assessments, you will benefit from detailed assessment rubrics provided from the beginning of the module to guide your effort and achievement.
Can I work full-time while studying?
Yes, you can work full-time while studying.
What happens if I decide to withdraw?
If you withdraw from your studies, you may still have fees to pay. Please check the fee liability in section 4.7 of the Tuition Fee Charging Policy here.
How will I be supported?
You’ll be supported at every stage of your studies, from enrolment through to graduation, with access to dedicated student support teams, academic guidance, and wellbeing resources. Learn more about how Aston Online will support you throughout your studies.
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Don’t hesitate to reach out! Our friendly Admissions Team is ready to answer your questions and offer personalised guidance on eligibility and funding options.
Programme information
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