Programme transition & institutional identity
Why are the LSHTM distance learning programmes changing?
Following a strategic review, LSHTM and the University of London have decided to end their collaborative delivery of distance learning programmes. This change will take effect for the 2026/27 academic year (starting October 2026).
Could you explain the reasoning behind the decision to move all Distance Learning programmes to LSHTM management?
Teaching and assessment have always been delivered directly by LSHTM, and this change does not affect that. LSHTM has, over recent years, built its own teams to support admissions, registration and student support for our programmes. The change is because we now have the capacity to provide these administrative and support services ourselves to our distance learning students.
What does this mean for students registering before October 2025?
If you register before October 2025, your programme will continue to be delivered jointly by LSHTM and the University of London. You will remain registered with the University of London and your degree will be awarded by them, with academic direction from LSHTM.
What will happen after the 2025/26 academic year?
From 2026 onwards, students will register directly with LSHTM. The programmes will be delivered entirely under LSHTM’s academic direction, and the degree will be awarded solely by LSHTM.
What award will I be receiving?
Students who register with the University of London and complete their programme through the University will be awarded a University of London degree. The award certificate will note that the programme was delivered under the academic direction of LSHTM.
Students who register directly with LSHTM and complete their degree with the School will be awarded an LSHTM degree. In this case, the University of London will not be referenced on the certificate.
Will LSHTM's name and academic staff remain associated with my course until I complete my studies, and will there be major changes to the teaching under the new system?
If you are registered with UoL, the teaching will continue to be delivered by LSHTM and the course structure will remain the same. Your transcript and certificate will still indicate that you studied a programme under the academic direction of LSHTM.
Will the LSHTM-only award still be recognised?
Yes. LSHTM is a world-renowned institution, and all awards conferred directly by LSHTM are fully recognised and respected internationally. LSHTM is a registered Higher Education Provider with the Office for Students (OfS).
Admissions, registration and deferral
I have an offer of admission for the 2025/26 academic year. If I don’t register this year, will my offer still be valid next year if I apply again through LSHTM? Can I defer my offer of admission to next year?
Unfortunately, we cannot defer your offer of admission. You will need to complete a new application form using the LSHTM application portal. Applications will open early November. You can register your interest for our distance learning programmes to be notified when applications open for 2026/27.
Can I choose to apply next year instead?
Yes, if you prefer, you can apply for the 2026 intake, when the programmes will be offered and awarded directly by LSHTM. Applications will also have to be made via LSHTM rather than University of London. Applications for 2026/27 will open early November 2025. Register your interest now.
What if I decide not to proceed with my application?
If none of the alternative options meet your needs and you wish to withdraw your application, you may be able to claim a refund of your application fee. Please contact University of London via their Enquiry Hub.
Curriculum, quality, fees & flexibility
Will I still receive the same quality of education?
Yes. The quality, academic content, and support for the programme will remain unchanged. Whether delivered jointly or solely by LSHTM, the programme maintains the highest standards in public and global health education.
Will the curriculum or the availability of modules and electives change following the transition of the programme?
LSHTM and UoL are fully committed to ensuring that all students can complete their studies as originally advertised.
I was advised that the distance learning degree would be of the same standard as those completed in-person. Will this change, and could it affect how the degree is viewed by future employers?
All our qualifications are benchmarked to the same standards. The content, teaching and assessment will obviously differ between subjects and mode of delivery. Both pathways lead to the same qualification and are held to identical academic standards. LSHTM has now been granted its own degree-awarding powers by the Privy Council, and starting next year, we will award our own degrees for both in-person and distance learning programmes. LSHTM programmes are highly regarded globally, and this transition will not affect how your degree is viewed by future employers.
Will the LSHTM programme maintain the same flexible format regarding the number of years allowed to complete different awards?
Yes, the programmes will continue to be under the academic direction of LSHTM and will follow the same flexible format and keep the registration period for each award. The quality, academic structure, and support for the programme will remain comparable.
What is the maximum registration for each distance learning award?
As per the programme specifications, the registration period for each award is as follows.
MSc: 2-5 years
PGDip: 2-5 years
PGCert: 1-5 years
Individual modules: 1-2 years
Will the LSHTM programme fees remain comparable?
Yes, they will remain comparable. Tuition fees are reviewed annually and typically increase each year in line with inflation and rising operational costs. Fee levels will be published when the programmes open for application.
Support & further information
Who can I contact for more information or advice?
If you have further questions, please reach out to LSHTM directly by emailing [email protected] or University of London via their Enquiry Hub. We’re here to support you in making the best decision for your academic future.