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Institute of Epidemiology & Health Care

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Population Health Sciences BSc/MSci

On this programme world-leading researchers will immerse you in the social, economic and demographic distribution of health and disease, and show you how to analyse big data to address health inequalities.

For full programme information including modules, contact details, fees and entry requirements please visit the prospectus pages:

On this page discover: 

Potential careers | Student testimonials | Funding your studies | FAQs 


Academic and teaching excellence

  • UCL is ranked 3rd in the world for public health (ShanghaiRankings 2024 Global Ranking of Academic Subjects)
  • UCL is ranked 9th in the world as a university (QS World Rankings 2025)
  • UCL is rated No.1 for research power and impact in medicine, health and life sciences (REF 2021)

Potential careers 

Public Health

From a career 'on the ground' to a role within national government, you could impact the future health of the whole population.

Discover more about careers in public health:

Global Health

Governmental and non-governmental international organisations are placing increasing importance on employing individuals who have ability to analyse data and translate date to a non-technical audience

Discover more about careers in Global Health

Health Consultancy

The size of the private health analytics sector has increased substantially and there is a need for health data scientists to work with the onset of big data. There are numerous private companies and recruitment consultants where these roles can be found.

Pharmaceuticals

The pharmaceutical industry requires population health scientists who can leverage data analytical and advise on compliance on the regulations in international health systems.

Discover more about careers in Pharamceuticals:

Finance and Professional Services

Discover more about a career in Finance and Professional Services

Postgraduate Study

There is a wealth of speciality a Population Health Sciences graduate could explore for postgraduate study. 

UCL provides MSc programmes in Population Health, Social Epidemiology, Child Health, Clinical Trial, Health Psychology, Applied Infectious Disease, Global Health, Health Economic, Health Data Science, Women’s Health and more.

Discover more about Postgraduate study:

Population Health Sciences BSc students have completed internships at HealthLumen, Centre for Ageing Better, Leicestershire County Council and the UK Health Security Agency.   


What our students and alumni say

Meet some of our students and alumni. Find out what they have to say about the Population Health Sciences BSc and where our alumni are now.

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Tami, Population Health Sciences BSc Alumna

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Yebeen Ysabelle, Population Health Sciences BSc (Data Science) Alumna 

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Jamie, Population Health Sciences BSc (Data Science) Alumnus
View more


Funding your studies 

Please refer to the prospectus page for fees and funding information. 


Frequently asked questions 

What are the two routes on the Population Health Sciences BSc? 

Across all years of study both routes will overlap on compulsory modules, but there are additional compulsory modules that are taken depending on the route selected. 

Route one: Population Health Sciences, will enable you to become specialised in chosen topics within the population health discipline. First-year students will take compulsory modules that explore policy, health history and interventions. 

Route two: Data Science, which has a strong emphasis on quantitative research methods in the social sciences. You will learn how to analyse data to make powerful inferences about the world. First-year students will take two compulsory modules focused on quantitative research methods and social science research. nt placeholder

How do I choose a route? 

Students will be asked to choose their route as they enrol. There is plenty of time to ask questions before you decide your route. 

Can I change routes? 

There will be a window of opportunity for switching routes until module selection period closes in mid-October. 

If you are considering changing routes, it is best to raise your concerns as soon as possible with your personal tutor or programme director. 

Is there limited space on each route? 

The routes are not limited to a certain number of students.

Are there additional entry requirements for the data science route?

There are no additional entry requirements. The route assumes no prior knowledge of quantitative methods or statistics. 

Can I study abroad?

The programme offers an optional study abroad year. Those who want to study abroad will apply for a place at a selection of international universities in their second year. If their application is successful, students will then go on to study abroad in their third year. UCL has long-established links with universities in Europe, Asia-Pacific and North America. The universities available as options for study abroad may vary year on year. Students on both routes of the BSc Population Health Sciences can apply to study abroad.