In this interview, we sit down with Patrick Oyibo, Programme Director of our Master of Public Health (MPH) programme.
Academic interests and expertise
Can you tell us about your academic and research background?
My academic and research background is in public health, with a particular focus on inequalities in public health outcomes, epidemiology of long-term conditions, socioeconomic and cultural determinants of health literacy and behaviour, and health policy and systems governing the delivery of disease control programmes and interventions.
What inspired you to specialise in your current field of study?
My interest in public health grew from seeing how social, economic, and systemic factors influence health far beyond individual choices. Witnessing avoidable inequalities in long-term conditions and access to care motivated me to pursue population-level, evidence-based approaches that address structural drivers of health and equip future public health professionals to create more equitable and sustainable health outcomes.
What do you enjoy most about teaching and mentoring students?
I enjoy inspiring students to think critically, explore complex public health challenges, and connect theory with real-world practice. Guiding their learning, witnessing their growth, and supporting them to develop confidence, curiosity, and problem-solving skills is deeply rewarding and keeps me passionate about teaching and mentoring.
Why this course?
What makes this postgraduate programme unique within its field?
The MPH programme combines rigorous core training in public health sciences with real-world, applied learning, emphasising the interplay between health, social, economic, environmental, and political determinants of health. The programme is designed to develop strategic leadership, problem-solving, and evaluation skills relevant to contemporary public health challenges. Students learn from multidisciplinary experts enhancing global perspectives and networking opportunities.
Are there opportunities for networking with alumni or industry professionals during the course?
The MPH programme offers extensive networking opportunities through guest lectures, seminars, and career events, and mentorship opportunities via partnership with the Royal Society for Public Health (RSPH). Students can connect with alumni, industry professionals, and public health leaders, gaining insights, and valuable career connections.
Career paths
How does the programme help students develop skills for their future careers, whether in academia or industry?
The MPH programme equips students with a wide range of skills essential for careers in both academia and industry. The programme emphasises practical problem-solving, critical thinking, and communication skills, preparing students to translate research into practice. Networking opportunities, and exposure to real-world public health challenges further enhance professional development, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for leadership roles in research, policy, consultancy, and public health practice.
What career paths have graduates from this programme typically followed?
Graduates typically pursue careers in public health practice, policy, research, health consultancy, epidemiology, global health, and academic or doctoral studies.
Tips for offer holders
If you could highlight one thing that students should look forward to in this programme, what would it be?
Students should look forward to gaining hands-on, real-world public health experience through applied learning and multidisciplinary collaboration, linking theory directly to practice.
What advice would you give offer holders as they prepare to join this course?
I would advise applicants to approach the MPH programme with curiosity and an open mind, ready to engage deeply with both theory and practice. Developing a clear sense of their public health interests, staying proactive in networking, and seeking out opportunities for applied learning will help them make the most of the programme and prepare for diverse career paths.