Description
Programme Pathway / Structure
The programme combines core courses (24 credits) with a capstone research project (6–9 credits), completed across two intensive terms.
| Code | Course Title | Credits | Content Summary |
| HCM 701 | Health Policy Systems & Reform | 3 | Frameworks for understanding national and global health systems and policy reform strategies. |
| HCM 702 | Health Economics & Resource Allocation | 3 | Principles of cost-effectiveness, budgeting, and funding models for health service delivery. |
| HCM 703 | Leadership in Health Management | 3 | Development of leadership, negotiation, and communication skills for managing health organisations. |
| HCM 704 | Strategic Planning & Quality Improvement in Healthcare | 3 | Tools and methodologies for quality improvement, service evaluation, and policy implementation. |
| HCM 705 | Health Care Data Analytics & Decision-Making | 3 | Use of data systems and statistics in performance management and evidence-based decision-making. |
| HCM 706 | Comparative Global Health Policy | 3 | Analysis of international health policy models, WHO frameworks, and cross-country case studies. |
| HCM 790 | Research Methods & Evidence-Based Practice | 3 | Methods for qualitative and quantitative policy research; critical appraisal and evaluation. |
| HCM 799 | Master’s Thesis / Applied Policy Project | 6–9 | Independent applied project addressing a key policy or management issue; written report and oral defense. |
Credit Distribution Summary
| Component | Credits |
| Core & Elective Modules | 21–24 |
| Research Methods | 3 |
| Thesis / Applied Project | 6–9 |
| Total | 30–36 |
Delivery & Schedule
- Full-Time Accelerated Mode: 6–9 months (2 academic terms)
- Format: Blended (on-campus + online hybrid)
- Learning Methods: Seminars, workshops, policy case studies, and applied research
| Term | Courses | Credits |
| Term 1 (Months 1–4) | HCM 701, HCM 702, HCM 703, HCM 704 | 12 |
| Term 2 (Months 5–9) | HCM 705, HCM 706, HCM 790, HCM 799 (Research Project) | 18–24 |
Entry Requirements
- Honours Bachelor’s degree (minimum GPA 3.0/4.0) in Health Sciences, Public Policy, or Management.
- Applicants with professional experience in healthcare or public administration are encouraged.
- English Proficiency: IELTS 6.5 (no band below 6.0), TOEFL iBT 90+, or an equivalent proficiency examination.
- Required documents: Statement of Purpose, Transcripts, Two References, and CV.
Key Features / Advantages
- Accelerated 6–9 month completion ideal for healthcare professionals and policy practitioners.
- Combines leadership, economics, and policy management with global case-based learning.
- Aligned with standards of the Health Services Management Centre (HSMC) at the University of Birmingham.
- Strong applied learning approach bridging research and practice.
- Suitable for leadership roles in hospitals, health ministries, NGOs, and global health agencies.




