UNIVERSITY OF CAPE TOWN · SOUTH AFRICA
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Public Health
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
36 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programme in Public Health at the University of Cape Town offers a rigorous research experience, typically completed within 3 to 5 years. This programme is designed for individuals committed to undertaking a substantial, original piece of work that will contribute significantly to their chosen field within public health. The focus of your PhD research is a critical choice, as it is likely to shape your future research career. Prospective candidates will engage in an in-depth exploration of a specific public health challenge, working closely with expert supervisors. The programme emphasizes developing independent research skills, critical thinking, and the ability to disseminate research findings effectively. Upon completion, graduates are equipped to lead research initiatives and contribute to policy and practice in public health.
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the PhD in Public Health programme?
- While specific academic qualifications are not detailed, applicants must submit a CV, academic transcripts, a research concept note (3-5 pages), and a covering letter. The concept note should outline your research rationale, questions, aims, objectives, and proposed methods, highlighting originality.
- How long does the PhD in Public Health programme typically take to complete?
- The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programme in Public Health at the University of Cape Town is typically completed within 3 to 5 years.
- What are the application deadlines for the PhD in Public Health?
- The application deadlines for the PhD programme are April 30 and October 31 each year.
- How do I apply for the PhD in Public Health programme?
- The application involves a two-stage process: first, submit your documents (CV, transcripts, concept note, covering letter) to Ms Latiefa Adams at Latiefa.Adams@uct.ac.za by the deadline, and then submit the same documents via the University of Cape Town's online application portal.
- Are there any scholarships available for international PhD students?
- The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program offers full-cost scholarships for academically talented young leaders from Sub-Saharan Africa who face financial barriers. Applicants must demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to community impact, though candidates should verify PhD eligibility directly as the program explicitly mentions honours and master's degrees.
How to apply
1. Prepare your documentsGather all required application materials, including your CV, academic transcripts, a concept note for your proposed research, and a covering letter. Your concept note should be 3-5 pages, outlining your research rationale, initial questions, aims, objectives, and proposed methods, highlighting the originality of your work. Your covering letter should explain your motivation for pursuing a PhD and indicate your preferred Division within the School of Public Health (Environmental Health, Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Health Economics, Health Policy and Systems, Occupational Medicine, Public Health Medicine, or Social and Behavioural Sciences).
2. Departmental ApplicationEmail all prepared documents to Ms Latiefa Adams at Latiefa.Adams@uct.ac.za. Ensure your submission is made by the application deadline (April 30 or October 31).
3. University ApplicationSubmit the exact same set of documents via the University of Cape Town's online application portal at http://applyonline.uct.ac.za. This step is mandatory for your application to be considered complete.
4. Supervisor Engagement (Optional, but Recommended)While all applications are considered by the Heads of Division, it can be beneficial to engage with a potential supervisor directly. You can contact supervisors during the two-month period leading up to the application deadline. A list of PhD supervisors is available on the School's website.
5. Receive DecisionThe department will notify you of the outcome of your application within 4-6 weeks after the application deadline.
6. Registration (Upon Acceptance)If accepted, the department will send an acceptance letter to the Faculty of Health Sciences Postgraduate Office. You will then liaise with this office to complete your registration procedures, including accepting the offer and completing registration forms. Finally, contact Latiefa Adams to gain access to the departmental PhD Vula site.
Scholarships
Mastercard Foundation Scholars ProgramFull-cost scholarship
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the PhD in Public Health programme?
+
While specific academic qualifications are not detailed, applicants must submit a CV, academic transcripts, a research concept note (3-5 pages), and a covering letter. The concept note should outline your research rationale, questions, aims, objectives, and proposed methods, highlighting originality.
How long does the PhD in Public Health programme typically take to complete?
+
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programme in Public Health at the University of Cape Town is typically completed within 3 to 5 years.
What are the application deadlines for the PhD in Public Health?
+
The application deadlines for the PhD programme are April 30 and October 31 each year.
How do I apply for the PhD in Public Health programme?
+
The application involves a two-stage process: first, submit your documents (CV, transcripts, concept note, covering letter) to Ms Latiefa Adams at Latiefa.Adams@uct.ac.za by the deadline, and then submit the same documents via the University of Cape Town's online application portal.
Are there any scholarships available for international PhD students?
+
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program offers full-cost scholarships for academically talented young leaders from Sub-Saharan Africa who face financial barriers. Applicants must demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to community impact, though candidates should verify PhD eligibility directly as the program explicitly mentions honours and master's degrees.