BSc (Hons) Public Health Sciences

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Next Intake TBA

Course Overview

The BSc (Hons) Public Health Sciences at University College Cork is designed for aspiring professionals passionate about improving community well-being and preventing disease. As one of Ireland's few undergraduate public health degrees, this programme offers an integrated, interdisciplinary learning experience. You will explore critical areas such as epidemiology, health statistics, and the social determinants of health, equipping you to analyse population health needs and develop effective health promotion strategies. This course is ideal if you are driven to understand and address the complex health challenges facing societies today.

Studied full-time on campus over four years, your journey will involve a blend of core modules and electives, alongside practical application. You will delve into subjects like health information systems, environmental health, and public health policy, preparing you for real-world scenarios. A significant highlight is the compulsory 12-week work placement in Year 3, offering invaluable hands-on experience with organisations such as the HSE or WHO. You will graduate with a strong foundation in public health research and practice, ready for diverse career paths in health promotion, research, policy, and more.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

The BSc (Hons) Public Health Sciences program provides a comprehensive education in the principles and practices of public health. Students will explore epidemiology, health information systems, determinants of health, and environmental health. The curriculum progresses through foundational knowledge in the first year to advanced topics and practical application in subsequent years, including research methods, health promotion, policy, and a work placement. The program culminates in a final year project and specialized modules in areas such as health economics, health protection, and global health issues.

1 Year 1 Modules

Epidemiology I Compulsory
Perspectives on Public Health Compulsory
Introduction to Health Information Systems (HIS) Compulsory
Determinants of Health Compulsory
Introduction to Public Health Compulsory
The Environment and Human Health Compulsory
Microbiology in Society Compulsory
Sociology of Health, Public Health and Health Promotion Compulsory
Introduction to Health Statistics Compulsory
Introduction to Biochemistry and the Biological Basis of Disease Elective
Introduction to Development Studies I Elective
Threshold French Elective
French for Reading Purposes I Elective
German Language (CEFR-Level A2.1) Elective
German Language (CEFR-Level A2.2) Elective
International Politics Elective
Spanish Language (Beginner Level) Elective
Spanish Language (Post Leaving Cert) Elective
Introducing Medical Students to Irish as a Spoken Language Elective
Special Study Module – Advanced Irish Language Elective
Fundamentals of Physiology Elective

2 Year 2 Modules

Principles of Social Research
Epidemiology II
Public Health Research Report
Introduction to Theories and Practices of Health Promotion
Public Health Issues
Introduction to Food and Industrial Microbiology
Management and Planning of Public Health Systems
Fundamentals of Nutrition Part 1
Critical Perspectives on Irish Health Policy
Social Research and Survey Methods
Cities of Diversity
Sociology of the Body, Health and Illness

3 Year 3 Modules (plus 12-week work placement)

Epidemiology III
Work Placement
Public Health Practice
Data Analysis for Public Health Research
Medical Microbiology
Transmission and Epidemiology of Infectious Diseases
Nutrition in Growth, Development, and Ageing
Professional Ethics
Health and Scientific Deviance
Global Urbanism
Medical Microbiology

4 Year 4 Modules

Health Economics
Health Protection
Health Services
Final Year Project
Public Health Advocacy
Primary Health Care
Science, Technology and Public Controversy
Advanced Applied Epidemiology
Gender and Development
Global Health Issues and Perspectives
Humanitarian Action in Development

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

10% off
First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 21,060.00 USD 23,409.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 23,409.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 23,409.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 23,409.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 91,289.00 USD 93,639.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 777.00 - USD 1,595.00
Food & Groceries USD 2,807.00 - USD 4,491.00
Transport USD 702.00 - USD 1,684.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,404.00 - USD 2,105.00
Estimated Total USD 4,913.00 - USD 8,280.00

Living cost estimates are based on Cork Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

93%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Advertising Finance & OperationsClinical Trials & DevelopmentCreative Production & Project ManagementCurriculum & Instructional DesignEarly Childhood & Primary EducationHealthcare Administration & ManagementHigher Education & UniversitiesMental Health & CounselingPerformance & Growth MarketingPublic Health & Epidemiology

Top Employers Hiring for this course

BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc.

Cork University Hospital

Eli Lilly and Company

Health Service Executive

Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine

MSD Ireland

Mercy University Hospital

Pfizer

Why Study BSc (Hons) Public Health Sciences at University College Cork

What makes this program stand out

Moderate Application response time

University College Cork typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 weeks, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at University College Cork in Ireland

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about BSc (Hons) Public Health Sciences at University College Cork

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and up to 40 hours per week during breaks. No separate work permit is needed if you are enrolled full-time in the program.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet the English language requirements, applicants can submit scores from tests such as IELTS (overall 6.5), TOEFL (overall 90), or Duolingo (overall 120). Specific scores are required for different components, like reading and speaking.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as Public Health Analysts, Health Educators, Epidemiologists, Community Health Workers, and Health Policy Advisors.

What will I actually study in this course?

The program offers an integrated learning experience focusing on assessing population health and investigating complex public health issues such as obesity and COVID-19. Students will also learn about the health impact of policies at various levels.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The BSc (Hons) Public Health Sciences program has an intake in September. Ensure to apply in time to secure your place.
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