Population Health Management (MSc)
Combined programme University of Birmingham
Combining Population Health Management at Leiden University with Public Health at the University of Birmingham.
Do you want to study Population Health Management and Public Health at two top universities? From September 2025 Leiden University offers the possibility to combine the Master Population Health Management (PHM) at the Health Campus in the Hague with the Master of Public Health at the University of Birmingham. The Master of Public Health is all about preventative public healthcare, while the master Population Health Management looks at how the healthcare system works and could be improved.
In the coming years, healthcare will focus more and more on disease prevention. To be able to make effective interventions, you need to know more in depth about public health. However, you also need to know the details of the entire healthcare system to have the tools to do that. If you combine the two masters, you can use both perspectives and make long-term improvements in healthcare. You’ll learn to analyse the large amounts of data available to identify those most at risk and optimise resource allocation to where it’s needed most. This will make you ready to confront the most critical health issues, such as disease prevention and reducing health disparities. Furthermore, your experience will be not only based on the Dutch healthcare system, but also the UK system, broadening your perspective
Programme overview
- Year 1, semester 1: You'll be based at the University of Birmingham and undertake epidemiological and statistics courses and be introduced to the fundamentals of population health management and health behaviour.
- Year 1, semester 2: You'll be based at Leiden University in The Hague to undertake courses such as alternative payment models to syndemics and complete project case II that runs for the entire semester.
- Year 2, semester 1: You'll return to the University of Birmingham to complete health economics, health inequalities and healthcare public health. You'll then have options you can undertake at the University of Birmingham or Leiden University.
- Year 2, semester 2: You'll complete your dissertation project at a location of your choosing.
On successful completion of all courses, you will be awarded a Master's degree in Population Health Management from Leiden University. See the programme below for a complete overview.
The University of Birmingham is a prestigious institution, consistently ranked among the top 100 universities worldwide. Notably, it holds the 15th position in the Guardian rankings, reflecting its academic excellence and student satisfaction. The campus itself is a green haven, offering a serene and sustainable environment for students to thrive. The university is also home to the cutting-edge Health Innovation Campus, where groundbreaking research and healthcare advancements are made. The university also boasts impressive sports facilities, ensuring that students can balance academic pursuits with physical well-being.
Birmingham, the UK’s second-largest city, is home to students from all around the world, with over 20% of its population made up of overseas residents. The international community offers students the opportunity to immerse themselves in a wide variety of cultures, events, food, and festivals throughout the year. The cost of living in Birmingham is relatively affordable compared to other major UK cities, with reasonably priced on-campus housing and travel passes. Located at the heart of England, Birmingham boasts an international airport and is less than two hours from London, making it an ideal base for exploring the rest of the country. Learn more about the student experience in Birmingham.
Career Opportunities
You will not only profit from the links of Leiden University, but also from exceptional links of Birmingham University, giving you access to a wide range of possible employers. In addition to the career possibilities of the regular master Population Health Management, this programme offers excellent opportunities in public healthcare. In the Netherlands, opportunities are for instance at the municipal health services, insurance companies, ministries and NGO's. Learn more about career prospects in population health: Career prospects - Leiden University
What is the tuition fee for the joint programme?
- The same as for the regular master, no additional fees are charged. EU and EAA students pay the regular fee for studying within the European Union when they register at Leiden University.
Do I receive a degree from both universities?
- No, you will receive a master's degree from the university you are initially registered.
Can housing accommodation be arranged in Birmingham?
- Yes, the University of Birmingham can arrange housing for you with priority. Read more: https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/accommodation
What are the differences between this jointly delivered master and the regular master Population Health Management?
- In this programme there is a stronger emphasis on public healthcare. Three courses from the regular master are not included: study design, responsible data analysis and governance. On the other hand, several courses on public healthcare from Birmingham University are added to the programme.
What are the admission requirements for this programme?
- The admission requirements are same as for the regular master. The same Bachelor's degree are freely admissible. Read more: Admission requirements - Leiden University
Questions
For other inquiries and questions, you can email: master.PHM@lumc.nl.
How to apply
First, register for the Master in Population Health Management via Studielink. Then complete the application form below. The combined Masters can be offered to a maximum of 10 students. If necessary, we will select students based on their reasons for applying. Selection criteria are motivation and personal, and academic development goals.