Birmingham City University

PhD Health

Birmingham City University

Course overview

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.

Entry requirements

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.

Scholarships

  • Accelerate Scholarship

    If you come from a lower income family or household, you could receive an offer that is up to four grades below our normal entry requirements – and possibly claim a £1,000 scholarship too.

    Up to £1,000

  • Bowater Financial Assistance Award

  • Graduate Scholarship

    20% fee discount for BCU graduates undertaking Master’s or PhD study.

    Up to 20% of fees

  • International Postgraduate Scholarships

    BCU is offering a scholarship of £3,000 to all self-funding international postgraduate students joining BCU on a full-time postgraduate taught Master’s degree in 2026.

    Up to £3,000

  • International Undergraduate Scholarships

    BCU is offering a guaranteed scholarship of £5,000 to all self-funding international undergraduate students joining BCU on a full-time degree in September 2026.

    Up to £5,000

  • Sports Scholarship

    Enhanced performance support funding.

  • The High Achievers' Scholarship

    You will be eligible for a £1,000 scholarship to get your university life off to a flying start.

    Up to £1,000

Career opportunities

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

Cost of study

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.

Admission

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.

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