PhD Health

The PhD Health at Birmingham City University is for students who want to follow a career in research or university teaching in the field of health or social care. A PhD is a respected qualification around the world and is often needed if you want to work in academic or research roles.

When you study a PhD in Health at Birmingham City University, you will have a team of expert supervisors who will support and guide you during your research. Your research project will be based on your interests and matched with the university’s areas of expertise and research facilities. This is not a taught course, your learning will come through independent research, supported by experts and a community of fellow researchers.

During your PhD, you will also complete a Postgraduate Certificate in Research Practice. This course will help you understand the basics of research, including how to review existing studies, choose research methods, and develop your own research proposal. This part of the course is designed to help you make a strong start in your research.

Studying a PhD in Health at Birmingham City University gives you the support and training you need to study important health topics and make a valuable contribution to the field.

Birmingham City University began in 1843 as the Birmingham College of Art. In 1992, it became a polytechnic and gained full university status the same year. BCU is a large public university situated in central Birmingham, England’s second-largest city.

BCU has around 31,000 students from over 100 countries, making it an international university. Also, the Student Union and more than 100 societies and sports clubs offer social and cultural experiences.

Birmingham itself is a multicultural city, rich in culture, shops, restaurants, entertainment, sports, and nightlife. Students benefit from on-campus part‑time jobs (e.g. ambassadors, marketing roles) and many opportunities in the city. Many students have also reported that Birmingham is safe and welcoming for international students.

You must complete a research proposal and upload it as part of your application. 

Grade Requirements:

• Applicants normally require a Master’s degree in a relevant subject to study this course. 

English Proficiency:

• You’ll need to demonstrate proficiency in English with an IELTS overall score of 7.0, with at least 6.5 in each section, or equivalent scores in TOEFL iBT or other recognised tests.

For the 2025/2026 academic year, the tuition fee to study a full-time PhD in Health at Birmingham City University is £15,120. Do note that this fee is provisional and, thus, subject to change.

BCU provides several scholarship opportunities for international students who wish to study at the university. For example, there are university-backed PhD studentships in areas like healthcare, computing, business, and social sciences. These typically include a reduction in tuition fees and a stipend.

Graduates of a PhD in Health from Birmingham City University are fit for employment in roles such as: 

• Professor/Lecturer  
• Research Scientist 
• Epidemiologist 
• Biostatistician 
• Healthcare Consultant 
• Behavioural Health Professional

You can apply for this course through the online application form provided by the university. For more information about this process, feel free to speak with any of our expert counsellors at AHZ.