BSc (Hons) in Public Health Sciences, University College Cork

Cork, Ulster

48 Months

Check Eligibility

About this course

The BSc Public Health Sciences programme at UCC provides an interdisciplinary learning experience focused on maintaining and improving public health. It covers essential skills such as assessing population health, investigating complex health issues like obesity, HIV/AIDS, and COVID-19, and evaluating the health impact of policies at various levels. Students learn to communicate effectively within the health system and society at large. The course emphasizes practical skills through modules in epidemiology, health information systems, social research, and health determinants, complemented by a 12-week work placement in Year 3. It aims to produce passionate graduates equipped to address current health challenges through a comprehensive and integrated approach.

Why this course is highly recommended

This programme is one of the few undergraduate degrees in Public Health Sciences available in Ireland, making it a unique choice for students interested in this field. It offers a rewarding learning environment with small classes and personalized support, fostering a strong sense of community. The course’s practical component, including a 12-week work placement across Ireland and internationally, provides valuable hands-on experience. Graduates have excellent employment prospects and can pursue further studies like masters or doctorate in health-related disciplines, expanding their career options in public health, health promotion, research, and policy.

Specialisation

While the course adopts an interdisciplinary approach encompassing various aspects of public health, it specifically trains students in skills relevant to assessing health risks, investigating public health issues, and evaluating health policies. The programme includes modules in epidemiology, health promotion, health economics, and public health practice, allowing students to develop a broad yet detailed understanding of public health from multiple perspectives.

Course fees

Application fees

17.25L

1st year tuition fees

17.25L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Applicants should meet the Irish Leaving Certificate minimum entry requirements, including passing grades in subjects like Irish, English, Maths, and a Laboratory Science, with specific grade requirements such as a minimum of H4 in one subject and O6/H7 in others. Mature students need to be at least 23 years old and may be required to attend interviews. There are also entry pathways via QQI FET qualifications, and international applicants must demonstrate equivalent qualifications and English proficiency. Garda Vetting is required due to contact with the public. Further details are available for different applicant categories.

English language test

IELTS

6.5

TOEFL

PTE

DUOLINGO

120

Career prospects

Graduates of this programme find opportunities across a wide spectrum of public health and related fields, including health research, health promotion, health and safety, nutrition, and community work. They can work in Ireland or abroad in roles that involve public health policy, health messaging, disease prevention, and health education. The course also provides a pathway to postgraduate qualifications such as the MSc in Public Health or other specialized health disciplines, broadening career options further.

FAQs

What practical experience will I gain?

You will undertake a 12-week work placement in Year 3, which provides real-world experience in public health settings both in Ireland and abroad.

What are the key modules in the course?

The programme includes modules in epidemiology, health information systems, health determinants, social research, health promotion, health economics, and public health practice, among others.