Course summary

The Master of Public Health (MPH) online programme is based on a longstanding tradition of academic teaching and research in public health at the University of Edinburgh. Public health is about preventing disease, prolonging life and promoting health through the efforts of society. Who this programme is for Whether you are already a working professional in this area, or new to the subject, this MPH online programme is for those wishing to address today's problems in public health. Our MPH programme provides you with an understanding of how different scientific disciplines can be used to investigate and then develop the best professional practice in epidemiology, public health and the social science of health. The programme is designed to provide an entry point to either the public health profession or public health research for those new to the subject, but also to provide sufficient depth for the benefit of existing public health professionals. The range of elective courses reflects the multidisciplinary nature of the subject. History Postgraduate training in public health has been offered continuously at the University in one form or another since 1875, when a new postgraduate science degree, aimed at those wanting to be Medical Officers of Health, was introduced. Since the first Chair of Public Health was established in 1898 and the opening of the Usher Institute of Public Health in 1902, the University has engaged in research covering:

• epidemiology

• environmental health

• infectious diseases

• medical statistics

• social sciences in health and health care

• Principles, concepts, values and approaches in public health practice and research

• Health promotion planning and evaluation

• Epidemiological study design and statistical analysis

• Screening, surveillance, outbreak response, and public health communication

• Public health policy content, stakeholders, and processes

• Qualitative research methods

• Systematic review theory and practice

• Practical research planning and implementation

• Critical appraisal of scientific literature