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Health Economics and Policy PhD

Different course options

Study mode

Online/Distance

Duration

5 years

Start date

06-OCT-24

Key information
DATA SOURCE : IDP Connect

Qualification type

PhD/DPhil - Doctor of Philosophy

Subject areas

Health Economics Economic Policy Health Studies

Course type

Research

Course Summary

The PhD in Health Economics and Policy meets the needs of those wishing to gain a deep and critical insight into health economics theory, research and practice and to develop or enhance research skills whilst fulfilling their existing responsibilities. The programme is offered part-time and combines innovative distance learning with face-to-face teaching at an annual autumn Academy held in Lancaster.

The programme is suitable for both UK-based and international students working in healthcare settings, pharmaceutical companies, international organisations, local and central government, consultancies, education or research.

This part-time, flexible doctorate runs over a minimum of four and a maximum of seven years. The programme begins with a compulsory five-day Induction Academy in Lancaster. Each of the subsequent academic years start with a compulsory three-day autumn Academy, while the rest of the course is delivered via e-learning. Attendance at the annual Academies is compulsory until students have been confirmed on the PhD programme.

Years 1 and 2 consist of taught modules delivered online that consolidate students’ knowledge of health economics and policy and develop their research skills. In Year 1 students take two specialist modules that cover the theory and practice of health economics and policy as well as a module on data analysis. Year 2 modules may include: Systematic Reviews, Research Philosophy, Research Design and Practical Research Ethics.

From Year 3 onwards, students undertake an independent research study, which will conclude with the submission of a thesis that makes an original contribution to knowledge. The research project will be supervised from the University but undertaken in students’ own location or workplace. Supervision meetings take place using video conferencing software such as Skype. During the annual autumn Academy students meet with supervisors face to face.

Modules

This module equips students with a set of economic tools to critically appraise issues in health and health care while offering a broad overview of the most relevant and current policy issues. The module begins with a review of microeconomic and statistical tools relevant for health economics. It then introduces an analytical framework for assessing a wide range of health systems. Next, the module looks at the demand for and production of health and health care, including the concept of supplier induced demand. Finally, the module introduces students to the key elements of economic evaluation.

Tuition fees

UK fees
Course fees for UK students

For this course (per year)

£4,350

International fees
Course fees for EU and international students

For this course (per year)

£11,340

Entry requirements

Students need to have 2:1 Hons degree (UK or equivalent) in economics, or other relevant discipline with a significant quantitative content such as statistics, pharmacy, medicine and management. We may also consider non-standard applicants.