Epidemiology (Distance Learning) (MSc/PGDip/PGCert)

I was looking for a university offering a part-time epidemiology program with an excellent record of research, training and public health relevance which would allow me to integrate local academia or a research centre upon completion of the degree. I had contacted the directors of two local full-time only Master programs in epidemiology that for their opinion about the reputation of the School and recognition of their diplomas. They highly recommended the school for its solid program and very qualified professors. They underlined that they would be happy to take me on as a PhD student after my Masters’ studies at the School “because at the School the students learn to think”.

My experience of studying at School was very satisfying. The program offered the intellectual challenge I was looking for. Assignments contained the right balance between simple application of textbook knowledge and thorough practice of analytical and methodological skills, including the use of statistical software. Distance learning allows the student to develop excellent planning skills and self-discipline as well as ability to prioritize tasks and overcome obstacles, all of which can be sought-after competences in the job market. The international student body as well as the exposure to the European teaching approach procured me with invaluable insights for collaborative multinational research. Since graduation I’ve had three successful job interviews during which the excellence of the School was emphasized. I chose to work as project coordinator in a university research centre documenting and harmonizing data from many international epidemiological studies.

My academic background is in social science and the studies of sociology, however working within the research field of public health and epidemiology the last four years made me pursue an MSc in Epidemiology at London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine.

The rationale for choosing the School was primarily due to the fact that it is the leading university within Public Health and Epidemiology research. I chose the MSc Epidemiology, as it combines well with Sociology, and gives me a range of methodological tools from health science, which strengthens my multi-disciplinary profile.

Most memorable from this experience at the School is the stimulating academic and social environment. The year is quite intense, but the quality and expertise given by internal and external speakers diminish this. Another aspect is the diversity within students and staff, which is an evident challenge. However awareness and respect from every party minimizes this and converts it into a vital personal and educational experience – a strength that improves the atmosphere at Keppel St, which must be attributed to the School.

After graduating at the School, I’ll return to Denmark pursuing a career within research encapsulating my areas of passion; sociology and public health, either in the private sector within consultancy or as part of a PhD.

I graduated from Oxford University in 2009, then worked as a junior doctor for 2 years. Whilst I’d begun to develop a strong clinical foundation, I felt I lacked a broader view of population and global health and the research and policy that informs and drives changes therein.

Over 2 years as a Clinical Research Fellow with INDOX and the Cancer Epidemiology Unit in Oxford, I was fortunate to be able to do a part-time MSc in Epidemiology, which has helped provide that breadth through very accessible teaching of methodology whilst considering the wider context of epidemiology and clinical research. The School has provided a stimulating environment to learn from leading academics and interact with students from across the world.