Course Summary
Developing the knowledge, skills and expertise for effective public health practice in a rapidly changing world.
College Link
Career Sectors
This course prepares you for working in the Career Sectors below. Follow the links to get a fuller understanding of the sectors you are preparing for.
Entry Requirements
PGCert/PGDip
Normally, a degree in a health related topic from an institution approved by the University. This can include a broad range of topics including public health, environmental health, sports or health sciences as well as bio-medical sciences and nursing. Applicants without a health related degree but with a minimum of 6 months experience in public health, health promotion or wider health roles will also be considered.
MSc
Candidates will normally progress from the Postgraduate Diploma in Health Promotion and Public Health. Candidates who hold a Postgraduate Diploma in Health Promotion, Public Health, Population Health or a Postgraduate Diploma in Specialist Community Public Health Nursing from Ulster or equivalent from another University, with a mark profile equivalent to that required of Postgraduate Diplomas in Health Promotion and Public Health of Ulster, as evidenced by a transcript, may be admitted directly to the MSc phase of the course.
English Language Requirements
English language requirements for international applicants
The minimum requirement for this course is Academic IELTS 6.0 with no band score less than 5.5. Trinity ISE: Pass at level III also meets this requirement for Tier 4 visa purposes.
Ulster recognises a number of other English language tests and comparable IELTS equivalent scores.
Application Details
Your Application
Application is through the University's online application system (see "Application Weblink").
Start Date: September 2025
Fees
Your Application
Application is through the University's online application system (see "Application Weblink" below).
The Student
Career Interests
This course is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests. If these interests do not describe you, this course may prepare you for work you may not find satisfying.
Social
The Social person's interests focus on interacting with the people in their environment. In all cases, the Social person enjoys the personal contact with other people in preference to the impersonal dealings with things, data and ideas found in other groups.
Many will seek out positions where there is direct contact with the public in some advisory role, whether a receptionist or a counsellor. Social people are motivated by an interest in different types of people and like diversity in their work environments. Many are drawn towards careers in the caring professions and social welfare area, whilst others prefer teaching and other 'informing' roles.
Career Progression
Specific roles have included:
Community Health Development Practitioner
Health Promotion Practitioner
Scientific Advisor for Dietary Health
Smoking Cessation Officer
Home Safety Officer
Lecturer
Senior Health Protection Nurse
Health and Wellbeing Officer
Health Advisor
Community Outreach Coordinator
Some students have also progressed to doctoral study.