Public Health, Ph.D.
COURSE OVERVIEW
By providing an evidence base through empirical investigation, audit, and evaluation, our research actively contributes to improvements at all levels in public health policy and practice.
A PhD in Public Health gives you the opportunity to pursue your particular personal or professional research interests in this wide-ranging area.
Over the course of your studies, you will develop and enhance transferable skills such as problem-solving, project management, and critical thinking that are valued in any professional setting.
Recent research projects carried out by our students include the impact of a structured education package on nurses’ knowledge and practice in Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C in Saudi Arabia, and health visitors understanding of the principle ‘influencing policies affecting health’.
As a student at our College of Human and Health Sciences, you will benefit from a dynamic and supportive research environment with many opportunities to make connections across disciplines and develop links with organisations and policymakers both in the UK and abroad. As such, you can be confident that your research will inform and be informed by the wider health and social care environment.
According to the most recent Research Excellence Framework in 2014-2021, over 75% of the research carried out at the college was of international or world-leading quality.
Recent research funding and collaboration partners include:
- Welsh Government
- NHS Wales
- Public Health Wales
- European Union
- Amgen Europe
- Ministry of Defence
- GlaxoSmithKline Biologicals
- British Medical Association
- National Institute for Social Care and Health Research
- Astrazeneca
- The Wellcome Trust.
Career Opportunities
Having a PhD demonstrates that graduates can work effectively in a team, formulate, explore and communicate complex ideas and manage advanced tasks. Jobs in academia (eg postdoctoral research, lecturing), education, government, management, the public or private sector are possible. Examples include administrators, counsellors, marketing specialists, and researchers.
The Postgraduate Research Office Skills Development Team offer support and a training framework for example in creating a researcher profile based upon publications and setting up your own business. The Swansea Employability Academy assists students in future career opportunities, improving CVs, job applications and interview skills.

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