If you are considering UCL, you may be thinking about what your experience will be like. In this Q&A, Professor Sam Janes, Dean of the Faculty of Population Health Sciences, answers questions about teaching, course structure, research opportunities, student support and career outcomes.
“At UCL, the strength of our research and teaching is matched by the diversity and openness of our community. Students study in a global, cosmopolitan environment that is inclusive and outward-looking, where different perspectives are valued, and where they can develop both academically and personally.”
University College London (UCL) is a research‑intensive university with a strong international reputation, recognised globally for excellence in public health and population health sciences. Teaching across all programmes is informed by active research, ensuring that students engage with contemporary health challenges and emerging knowledge throughout their studies.
Academic expertise spans areas including disease prevention and treatment, health inequalities, climate change and health, clinical trials, health systems research, and the use of data and artificial intelligence in healthcare. This breadth of research activity informs curriculum design and ensures that students are exposed to real‑world problems and evidence‑based approaches throughout their studies.
Undergraduate degrees are taught over three years. The first year focuses on building core knowledge through compulsory modules, supporting students as they transition into higher education. In the second year, students combine compulsory and optional modules and begin to develop more specialised interests. The final year includes an independent research project, allowing students to explore an area of interest in depth while developing research and analytical skills.
Postgraduate taught courses are typically delivered over one year and combine compulsory and optional modules in the first two terms with an independent research project. Many postgraduate courses are offered on a full‑time, part‑time or flexible modular basis to accommodate different study needs.
Across both levels of study, teaching is designed to develop analytical skills, critical thinking and the ability to apply knowledge to real‑world health contexts.
The Faculty works closely with a wide range of national and global organisations, including healthcare systems, international bodies and industry partners. These relationships provide opportunities for students to engage with real datasets, live case studies, research projects and work placements as part of their studies.
Such opportunities are embedded within courses to enhance academic learning while supporting professional development and career readiness.
You can read more about how one student combines research and leadership alongside their studies in Jamie Wong’s story.
Students have access to a broad range of academic and pastoral support services at both Faculty and university level. Academic guidance and personal tutoring are embedded throughout programmes, with particular emphasis on key transition points such as the first year of undergraduate study and independent research projects.
Additional support includes specialist study skills provision, confidential wellbeing and counselling services, and dedicated student advisers. International students also receive pre‑arrival guidance and ongoing support throughout their time at UCL.
Alongside academic support, students are encouraged to take part in guest lectures, careers events, student‑led societies and social activities that contribute to a supportive academic community.
Our courses are designed to prepare graduates for a changing global health landscape. Core skills developed across programmes include analytical and data literacy, critical thinking within complex systems, and an understanding of how emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence are shaping health research, policy and practice.
Graduates progress into a wide range of careers, including research, healthcare management, policy, industry, innovation and entrepreneurship, supported by careers guidance and opportunities for practical experience.
UCL offers a wide range of accommodation options, with halls of residence located across central and east London. Students can choose from a variety of room types to suit different preferences, budgets and lifestyles.
Students can apply for UCL accommodation and are supported throughout the process, with guidance available on eligibility, application timelines and next steps. For those who prefer to live outside UCL halls, further advice is available on alternative accommodation options in London.
University accommodation provides an opportunity to live within a student community while being based close to UCL’s campuses and the wider opportunities of London.