We are already seeing the health impacts of climate change unfold around us in extreme heat, growing pressure on food systems, worsening air quality, the spread of infectious diseases, and the strain on health services. To meet these challenges, we need to understand the link between planetary and human health. That is why planetary health matters: it brings together environmental science, public health and policy to help us respond to today's risks and build a more resilient future.

The MSc in Climate Change and Planetary Health explores how environmental change affects human health and the systems that sustain human wellbeing. The programme examines the drivers of climate and ecological change, the mechanisms through which these changes influence health outcomes, and the strategies and solutions that can reduce risks and support more sustainable and resilient societies.

You will study climate change and planetary health at one of the world’s leading schools of public health. Drawing on interdisciplinary research across LSHTM, including leading work from experts within the Centre on Climate Change and Planetary Health, the programme will give you a strong foundation in planetary health. This will enable you to analyse and address the complex links between environmental sustainability and population health. 

What you will learn 

This will help you analyse climate-related health risks, assess environmental health data, and understand how evidence can inform policy and public health practice.

• Understand how global environmental systems, including heat stress, food systems, air pollution and biodiversity loss, affect human health
• Interpret research evidence and understand its theoretical foundations so you can make informed decisions and turn evidence into action
• Apply and evaluate methods to quantify the impacts of climate change on health, policy and practice
• Learn how to co-develop solutions and engage a wide range of audiences to support change
• Explore how to promote and protect population health in sustainable ways

Reflecting LSHTM’s global outlook, you will explore climate and planetary health challenges across a range of geographical and socio-economic contexts, including urban settings, low- and middle-income countries, and regions particularly vulnerable to climate-related hazards.

Key features  

• A specialist focus on climate change and planetary health at a world-leading institution for public and global health
• Teaching from experts at LSHTM’s Centre on Climate Change and Planetary Health and the WHO Collaborating Centre on Climate Change, Health and Sustainable Development
• Strong connections between teaching and current research, with opportunities to build on these through your research project
• An interdisciplinary programme that combines scientific, analytical and policy perspectives for work in this rapidly developing field 

Who is it for?

This programme is designed for applicants from a broad range of academic and professional backgrounds. As a student, you will learn alongside others with experience and interests across related disciplines.

It is well-suited to those who want to understand the complex relationships between environmental change and human health, and who are interested in building a career in planetary health. Some parts of the programme involve quantitative assessment, so a basic mathematical background is important.

Students join the programme with a range of career goals. Some are interested in policy and decision-making, others in roles within national or international organisations, and some plan to continue into academic or research careers. Whatever direction you take, you will develop specialist knowledge and skills to contribute to meaningful change in the field. 

Duration

One year full-time; part-time or split-study over two years. Ways to study explained.

Intercalating study

Find out about intercalating this programme.