Public Health in Action

Discover how to protect, promote, and improve public health and excel in your career.

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University of AberdeenUniversity of Aberdeen

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Master public health skills to enhance your career and global wellbeing

Public health is an ever-evolving field that requires leaders to create innovative solutions for the future. This online microcredential from the University of Aberdeen prepares you to make a tangible impact on public health and enhance your professional skills. 

On this comprehensive online programme,  you’ll delve into the core aspects of public health, guided by leading experts in the field. 

Discover how you can protect, promote, and improve population health on a global scale – all from the comfort of your own home.

Understand the three major areas of public health

On this foundational module, you’ll explore the essential components of public health: healthcare evaluation, health protection, and health promotion.

You’ll learn to identify at-risk populations, monitor public health, measure the burden of ill-health, and implement effective interventions. Your understanding of these core concepts will lay the groundwork for impactful public health initiatives.

Measure public health burden and ill-health

Quantifying health issues affecting populations is a critical skill for public health professionals. This module focuses on the practical application of numerical methods to assess the burden of ill-health. 

You'll learn to interpret key metrics and data from various sources to monitor and evaluate public health challenges. By mastering these skills, you’ll be well-equipped to inform policy and practice with accurate public health data.

Apply numerical thinking in population health

Delve into the practical applications of numerical thinking in population health improvement by understanding health needs assessments and how to apply these concepts to various political, economic, and social contexts. 

You’ll learn to integrate statistical data into health assessments, helping you to develop rational, evidence-based approaches to public health challenges.

Address health inequalities in society

Health inequalities are a pressing issue globally. This module will equip you with the knowledge and skills to address these disparities effectively. Get to the root of health inequalities and design interventions to promote health equity. 

With this knowledge, you’ll be able to contribute to  fairer, healthier societies through targeted public health strategies.

Improve population health through rapid health needs assessments

You'll conduct rapid health needs assessments, selecting a topic and performing your own evaluation with guidance from experienced public health experts. Based on your findings, you’ll make evidence-based recommendations to improve public health outcomes. What’s more, you’ll learn to communicate your findings effectively to diverse audiences, ensuring that your work has a real-world impact.

Upon completing this microcredential, you'll have a robust understanding of public health's core areas and the practical skills needed to effect change. 

How will the skills you learn help in your career?

The skills you acquire on this microcredential will be invaluable in advancing your career in public health. You'll gain a comprehensive understanding of the core areas of public health, including healthcare evaluation, health protection, and health promotion.

By learning to identify populations at risk, measure the burden of ill-health, and implement effective interventions, you'll be able to address public health challenges more effectively.

How will you be assessed?

This microcredential consists of three assessments:  a multiple-choice exam, a PowerPoint presentation, and a written report.

You'll have the opportunity to apply what you've learned in real-world scenarios, ensuring that you can translate theoretical knowledge into practical action. 

Assessments are designed to evaluate your grasp of core concepts, your ability to interpret and use data, and your effectiveness in recommending and implementing public health interventions.

What will you receive?

Upon successful completion of the microcredential, you’ll earn 15 credits at the Master’s level (SCQF Level 11). These credits can be applied towards further advanced degrees in Public Health, Applied Health Sciences, or Clinical Nutrition. 

Additionally, you'll receive a certificate of completion that can enhance your resume and demonstrate your advanced knowledge and skills in public health to current or potential employers.

How long is this microcredential?

This microcredential has been designed to be flexible and accommodating for working professionals. It’s delivered 100% online, allowing you to manage your study hours to suit your personal and professional commitments. This allows you to gain valuable knowledge and skills without disrupting your current professional responsibilities.

Are you eligible for this microcredential?

This microcredential has no formal entry requirements, but it’s recommended you have a 2:2 UK undergraduate degree (or equivalent) or relevant experience before beginning your studies as the course is delivered at the master’s level.

Additionally, while you don’t need to provide proof of your English language level before the start, an IELTS score of 6.5 overall (or equivalent) is recommended to complete the course.

Is this microcredential right for you?

This microcredential is ideal for individuals passionate about public health and those seeking to make a significant impact in the field. Whether you’re a current public health professional looking to advance your career or someone just entering the industry wanting to gain a deep understanding of public health fundamentals.

Syllabus

What happens before, during, and after your microcredential

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    University of Aberdeen is the 3rd oldest Scottish and 5th oldest UK University. With 14500 students from 120 countries, it is a world leader in medical research, energy, environment, law and business.

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