Health Research Methods MSc / PGDip / PGCert

Develop the vital skills to develop or enhance your career in healthcare and health-related research.

Course Structure

What makes this course different?

At Birmingham you'll gain an advanced understanding of quantitative and qualitative research methods in a global health care context. Our programme provides in-depth knowledge and practical experience of the range of methodologies and analyses applied in health-related research and will enable critical interpretation of the findings of health research resulting from different methodologies

• Learn from researchers and lecturers actively involved in leading national and international health research.
• The flexible, modular structure, allows you to tailor your learning experience to suit your goals.
• Delivered in a dynamic, cutting-edge environment, this programme immerses you in the latest advancements in health research.

The University of Birmingham is also ranked as the first choice for leading graduate employers in the UK.

You’ll dive into the exciting world of healthcare research, mastering a variety of research methods and honing your skills to critically evaluate and interpret cutting-edge literature. You’ll gain a deep understanding of epidemiology, empowering you to pose impactful questions at the population level, select the right techniques to explore these questions, and skillfully analyse, synthesize, and present your findings. Additionally, you’ll become proficient in applying statistical tests, enabling you to critically evaluate statistical methods in both epidemiological and clinical trial research, and confidently use these techniques in your own innovative projects.

• Structured learning - teaching takes place in one-week blocks.
• Teaching - benefit from a range of teaching styles including lectures, small group tutorials, presentations, peer group learning and self-study.
• Academic and personal support - you'll have access to a comprehensive support system that will assist and encourage you, including personal tutors and welfare tutors who can help with both academic and welfare issues.
• Assessment - assessment is via a mixture of examination and assignment. If a module is assessed by assignment you will usually have four to five weeks to complete it after the module has finished. If a module is assessed by examination it will take place after a period to allow for revision after the taught part of the module has finished.
• Research project and dissertation - masters students complete their degree by also undertaking a research project and writing a 10,000 word dissertation.

The modules listed for this programme are regularly reviewed to ensure they are up-to-date and informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Any optional module information listed for this programme is intended to be indicative, and the availability of optional modules may vary from year to year. Where a module is no longer available, we will let you know as soon as we can and help you to make other choices.

The following must be taken: 

Students must pass one of the core module options (see below) to be awarded the Masters.* If research proposal option chosen, then an addition 20 credits must be taken from the following optional modules that provide knowledge and skills training in specific areas of research methodology appropriate to applied health research. These are: Qualitative Research Methods, Clinical Trials, and Systematic Reviews and Evidence Synthesis. 

Choose 80 (or 100 for Research proposal Dissertation) credits from the following modules: 

In addition students may also take 20 credits of modules offered by the institute of Applied Health Research, subject to availability, timetable constraints and approval of the module and programme leader. 

Other classifications of degree and/or relevant professional qualifications and experience in a health related field will be considered. Applications are welcome from UK medical students who wish to intercalate.

Applicants will need to pay a £500 non-refundable deposit at the point of accepting an offer to study on the programme. The deposit is put towards payment of fees when students join the course.

Postgraduate Masters Loan

To help with the cost of studies, this loan is available to all UK students. You can use this loan towards fees, maintenance or other costs at your own discretion. It’s available for all full-time, part-time and distance learning Masters programmes, as long as you don’t already have a Masters qualification (or equivalent).If you’re a student from Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland, you can apply for Masters loans from your country’s government.

Scholarships

To help you afford your studies, we’ve put more than £33 million into student support and scholarships. We also offer a range of advice on searching for funding and managing your finances.

Birmingham Masters Scholarships

We want to welcome the brightest talent to our postgraduate community. That’s why our Birmingham Masters Scholarships award £3,000 to more than 300 students each year.

Select whether you are a UK student or an international student for relevant application deadlines.

This programme can be taken as an intercalated option for those studying MBChB Medicine and Surgery at another Institution. To apply for the Intercalated MSc Health Research Methods please fill in this registration form (https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/medical-school/intercalation-register-your-interest) and we will be in touch with details about how to apply. For more information, please contact us on mdsintercalationenquiries@contacts.bham.ac.uk.

We have put together some helpful information on the taught programme application process and supporting documents. Please read this information carefully before completing your application.

Careers Network

Get ready for tomorrow, with advice, guidance and opportunities at every step of your studies. From developing new skills to preparing for a PhD, our Careers Network can help you gain an advantage in the job market or advance in your field.

Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network offers a range of events and support services including networking opportunities, career coaching, one-to-one guidance, careers fairs and links with leading graduate recruiters. We also offer subject-specific careers consultants and a dedicated careers website for international students.