COURSE CURRICULUM

The MSc Global Health (Health Systems) at Queen Margaret University offers a flexible postgraduate structure leading to a Postgraduate Certificate (PgCert), Postgraduate Diploma (PgDip), or full MSc qualification. For the PgCert, students complete 60 credits, including two core specialist modules: Health Systems in Fragile Settings, which examines how health systems function during crises, conflict, and recovery periods, and Health Systems and Policy, which explores health systems as complex social institutions, focusing on governance, financing, reform, and health policy and systems research. Students also choose an additional 20-credit module from areas such as health and development, gender and reproductive health, mental health, project management, epidemiology, climate and health, and disease prevention. Students who do not complete the two specialist modules receive a general PgCert in Global Health without specialisation. The PgDip requires 120 credits and provides a deeper understanding of global health and health systems through core modules in Key Concepts, Key Methods, and Key Practice in Health and Development, alongside the two specialist health systems modules and one optional module. Throughout the programme, students develop critical skills in analysing health systems, evaluating policies, understanding political and social influences on healthcare, and designing solutions to improve health outcomes in diverse settings, including fragile and conflict-affected regions. To achieve the full MSc qualification, students must also complete a 60-credit Dissertation involving either desk-based research or fieldwork on an approved topic related to health systems. The dissertation allows students to apply their knowledge and research skills to investigate real-world healthcare challenges and contribute to evidence-based solutions. Overall, the programme equips graduates with advanced expertise in health systems strengthening, policy analysis, and research, preparing them for leadership roles in governments, non-governmental organisations, humanitarian agencies, and international organisations working to improve healthcare systems and reduce health inequalities worldwide.