Master of Public Health

Degree Structure

College

Health Sciences

Department

Health Care Management

Level

Graduate Masters

Study System

Courses and Theses

Total Credit Hours

38 Cr. Hrs.

Duration

2-4 years

Intake

Fall and Spring

Language

English

Study Mode

Full Time and Part Time

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Important Dates

Nov 30

Nov 30

Graduate Studies Admission Deadline

Graduate Studies Admission Deadline

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Degree Overview

The Department of Health Care Management (HCM) (formerly Health Services Administration) was established in 1998 as one of the first departments initiated in the College of Health Sciences (CHS). It was part of a long-term strategy to prepare healthcare managers and professionals to meet the challenges of a dynamic healthcare environment. In response to the UAE's growing need for healthcare managers and leaders, the department launched a Master of Public Health (MPH) program in Spring 2025. This graduate program is designed to equip students with the essential knowledge and skills needed for impactful careers in healthcare facilities, academia, and research within the dynamic field of Public Health. The CHS remains committed to providing high-quality, intellectually challenging educational programs that prepare students for successful careers in public health professions. The MPH program meets the requirements of national and international accreditation bodies, ensuring that our graduates can practice both regionally and internationally. The MPH curriculum includes foundational and advanced courses in Public Health, such as Fundamentals of Public Health, Biostatistics in Public Health, Applied Epidemiology, Public Health Management and Leadership, Research Methods and Ethics, Environmental Health, and Principles of Health Promotion and Communication. Students can also choose from a range of elective courses, including Epidemiology of Communicable and Non-communicable Diseases, Global Health, Health Policy Analysis, and Health Economics and Finance. To enhance practical learning, students will engage in a public health practicum and complete a thesis as part of the program, enabling them to apply their knowledge and contribute meaningfully to the field of Public Health.

Study Plan

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Study Plan Master of Public Health

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What You Will Learn

Students enrolled in the MPH program will gain comprehensive knowledge and practical skills across a wide range of public health disciplines. The program emphasizes evidence-based approaches and critical thinking, enabling students to analyze public health data, assess population health needs, and design effective interventions. Core areas of learning include epidemiology, biostatistics, environmental and occupational health, health promotion and communication, public health policy, and leadership. Through applied coursework, a practicum experience, and a research-based thesis, students will be well-prepared to address complex health issues, contribute to policy development, and lead initiatives that improve health outcomes at local, national, and global levels.

Degree Requirements

Requirements Compulsory - Elective - Total -
- Courses Credit Hours Courses Credit Hours Courses Credit Hours
Courses 08 20 02 06 10 26
Thesis 01 09 - - 01 09
Practicum 01 03 - - 01 03
Total Credit Hours - 32 - 06 - 38

Study Plan: Course List

Program Requirements

  1. Compulsory Courses (20 credit hours)
  2. Elective Courses (6 credit hours)
  3. Public Health Practicum (3 credit hours)
  4. Thesis (9 credit hours)
  1. 1. Compulsory courses (32 credit hours)
Course # Course Title Credit Hours Prerequisite
- - - Course # Course Title
0504510 Fundamentals of Public Health 2 - -
0504511 Public Health Management and Leadership 3 - -
0504512 Biostatistics in Public Health 3 - -
0504513 Applied Epidemiology 3 - -
0504514 Environmental Health 2 - -
0504515 Principles of Health Promotion and communication 2 - -
0504521 Research Methods and Ethics 2 0504513 Applied Epidemiology
0504522 Health Care Systems 3 - -
0504621 Public Health Practicum 3 - Completing 50% of the course credit hours (approximately 15 credit hours)
0504699 Thesis 9 - Completing 50% of the course credit hours (approximately 15 credit hours)
  1. 2. Elective Courses (6 credit hours)
Course # Course Title Credit Hours Prerequisite
- - - Course # Course Title
0504523 Health Policy Analysis 3 0504522 Health Care Systems
0504524 Health Economics and Finance 3 - -
0504525 Epidemiology of Communicable and Non-Communicable Diseases 3 0504513 Applied Epidemiology
0504551 Global Health 3 - -
0504553 Advanced Biostatistics 3 0504512 Biostatistics in Public Health

Course Description

0504510

Fundamentals of Public Health

2 credits

Prerequisite:

None

Description:

This course is designed primarily to introduce students to the fundamental knowledge of public health concept and practice. The course is ideal for students who intend to pursue a graduate degree in the field of public health with a formal academic structure. The students joining this course will gain an understanding of the evolution and mission of the field of public health, as well as an appreciation of its key methods and applications. The course is designed to lay the groundwork for all other courses introduced to students in public health.

 

0504511

Public Health Management and Leadership

3 credits

Prerequisite:

None

Description:

This course is designed for students in the master's program of public health seeking to deepen their knowledge and skills in effective leadership and management within the dynamic landscape of public health organizations. The curriculum integrates advanced concepts, contemporary practices, and strategic approaches essential for addressing complex challenges faced by leaders and managers in public health and healthcare organizations.

 

0504512

Biostatistics in Public Health

3 credits

Prerequisite:

None

Description:

This course offers students a foundational understanding of data, descriptive statistics, and statistical inference. Specific topics covered include comparisons of means and proportions, non-parametric tests, correlation and linear regression, association analysis, and Logistic regression. Additionally, the course equips students with the essential skills and competencies required to critically read, evaluate, and conduct research.

 

0504513

Applied Epidemiology

3 credits

Prerequisite:

None

Description:

This course aims to acquaint students with applied epidemiological methods and contemporary perspectives on empirical associations between diverse factors and health outcomes. Students will cultivate skills in interpreting findings from applied epidemiology research and critically evaluating the methodologies employed in this field. Covering a spectrum from environmental factors to lifestyle choices, students will explore recent research elucidating the intricate links between various aspects of life and health. Additionally, the course will enable students to discern the nuances of different methodologies and comprehend their applicability to a range of real-world public health challenges.

 

0504514

Environmental Health

2 credits

Prerequisite:

None

Description:

This introductory course is integral to the field of public health as it delves into the multidisciplinary aspects of environmental health issues. Covering fundamental principles such as Environmental Health Science, Environmental Epidemiology, and Environmental Toxicology, the course provides a solid foundation for understanding how environmental factors intricately impact public health outcomes. Topics explored, including air and water pollution, food safety, waste management, ozone depletion, climate change, and occupational hazards, directly align with public health concerns.

 

0504515

Principles of Health Promotion and communication

2 credits

Prerequisite:

None

Description:

This course is designed to introduce students to the principles, theories, and models of health promotion and communication within the realm of public health. Participants will delve into the determinants of health and factors influencing healthy behaviors for individuals and local communities. The course will also emphasize the crucial role of effective communication in the design, development, and evaluation of health promotion programs.

 

0504521

Research Methods and Ethics

2 credits

Prerequisite:

None

Description:

This course introduces students to the fundamental principles and practices of conducting health research, with a strong emphasis on ethical considerations. Students will gain hands-on experience in designing, conducting, and evaluating research studies in the health field. The course aims to equip students with essential knowledge and skills to critically evaluate existing research, design and conduct ethical research studies, and effectively communicate research findings to diverse audiences. Finally, students will acquire practical skills in designing, conducting, and evaluating health-related research projects while prioritizing ethical principles and guidelines.

 

0504522

Health Care Systems

3 credits

Prerequisite:

None

Description:

This course offers a systems approach to understanding healthcare systems and health policies in both the public and private sectors. It provides an overview of the health system, including the organization, structure, and function of healthcare, public health, and regulatory systems across national and global settings. Students will develop skills to engage with and analyze policies that both promote and challenge the delivery of accessible, equitable public health.

 

0504522

Health Care Systems

3 credits

Prerequisite:

None

Description:

This course offers a systems approach to understanding healthcare systems and health policies in both the public and private sectors. It provides an overview of the health system, including the organization, structure, and function of healthcare, public health, and regulatory systems across national and global settings. Students will develop skills to engage with and analyze policies that both promote and challenge the delivery of accessible, equitable public health.

 

0504621

Public Health Practicum

3 credits

Prerequisite:

None

Description:

This course enables students to apply the knowledge, competencies, and skills acquired during the didactic curriculum of the Master of Public Health/Health Management and Policy. It offers students the opportunity to practice and refine these skills as needed, fostering a connection with all stakeholders and partners within the healthcare system.

 

0504699

Thesis

Based on the Study Plan

Prerequisite:

-

Description:

This course is tailored for students undertaking the thesis in Master of Public Health program. Throughout the program, students will formulate a research question, hypothesis, and research design to identify a suitable research topic in public health, collaborating with faculty supervisors of their choice. They will then develop a research proposal, seek approval from the University Committee, and commence their research activities. Toward the conclusion of their practical work, students will compose their theses under the guidance of their advisors. At the end of the subsequent semester, students will present their findings to a specialized committee organized by their supervisors. It is important for students to note that they may not defend the thesis until they have completed all the courses in their study plan, including any remedial courses and other admission requirements. Additionally, students must obtain a CGPA of not less than 3 out of 4 and publish at one paper in their specialization in a refereed journal or conference proceedings. The student should be the main author of the paper, with the supervisor listed as a joint author. This requirement applies before defending the thesis.

 

Elective Courses (6 credits)

0504523

Health Policy Analysis

3 credits

Prerequisite:

None

Description:

This course provides a comprehensive exploration of health policy analysis, offering students a deep understanding of the multifaceted nature of policies that shape the healthcare landscape. Through a combination of theoretical frameworks, case studies, and practical applications, students will develop the analytical skills necessary for critically assessing, interpreting, and influencing health policies

 

0504524

Health Economics and Finance

3 credits

Prerequisite:

None

Description:

TThis course provides an in-depth exploration of the intersection between healthcare, economics, and finance. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of economic principles and financial management within the healthcare sector. The course covers essential topics ranging from market dynamics to financial statements, equipping students with the knowledge needed to navigate the complexities of health economics and finance.

 

0504525

Epidemiology of Communicable and Non-Communicable Diseases

3 credits

Prerequisite:

None

Description:

This course will delve into the patterns and origins of both communicable and non-communicable diseases, demystifying the factors influencing their prevalence and effects on populations. Students will immerse themselves in the realm of non-communicable diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and mental health, gaining insight into their environmental, social, and behavioral determinants. Additionally, students will comprehend the transmission dynamics of infectious diseases, understanding their spread, vulnerable populations, and strategies to interrupt the infection chain. The learning outcomes of this course will collectively provide participants with a well-rounded knowledge base and skill set in the field of epidemiology, enabling them to contribute to the understanding and management of both communicable and non-communicable diseases.

 

0504551

Global Health

3 credits

Prerequisite:

None

Description:

This course introduces students to the fundamental principles of global health, covering aspects such as the burden of disease, the primary determinants of health, and key global health challenges. Additionally, the course addresses the obstacles to achieving health equity at organizational, community, and systemic levels. Throughout the duration of the course, students will develop critical and creative thinking skills by applying various tools and frameworks to address diverse global health needs.

 

0504553

Advanced Biostatistics

3 credits

Prerequisite:

None

Description:

This course introduces students to advanced biostatistics essential in public health. It covers advanced concepts in data and statistical inference, including topics such as healthcare data management, linear regressions, multivariable analysis, categorical data analysis, survival analysis, and Meta-Analysis. In addition, students will gain proficiency in utilizing statistical software tools, enhancing their ability to manipulate and analyze complex datasets effectively. The course also incorporates practical applications and real-world examples, ensuring students can confidently apply advanced biostatistical techniques to address contemporary public health challenges.

 

Career Path

Graduates of the MPH program are prepared for a wide range of career opportunities in the public health sector. They can pursue roles in government health departments, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), international health agencies, hospitals, research institutions, and academic settings. Common career paths include public health specialists, epidemiologists, health policy analysts, program coordinators, health promotion officers, and environmental health advisors. The program also equips graduates with the necessary skills to take on leadership and management positions within health systems. Additionally, those interested in research or academia may continue with doctoral studies or contribute to evidence-based policy and program development at national and global levels.

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