London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine

If there's one thing everyone in the MSc Public Health for Global Practice (PHGP) can agree on, it is that the programme certainly stands out (from all programmes perhaps!) It isn’t just about lectures, assignments, and sleepless nights in the library, but also the genuine connections, memorable experiences, and a whole lot of fun we've had during our studies. Here are five reasons why this programme stands out for me!

1. Programme Directors who are more like friends 

Let's be real - would students normally say they can reach out to their Programme Directors (PDs) to discuss an assignment and their latest Netflix obsession? At PHGP, our PDs aren't just professors; they're our mentors, our sounding boards, and sometimes, our unofficial therapists. You can reach out to them about anything - academic struggles, career aspirations, or even where to find the best coffee in London (trust us, they know). In fact, Simon was the one who introduced us to Store Street Espresso, the coffee shop right across from the school. They genuinely care about student wellbeing and are always approachable, making PHGP a space where students feel valued and supported.

2. Friday lunchtime therapy sessions - oops, we mean meetings

Forget stiff office hours - PHGP takes support to the next level with our Friday lunchtime catch-ups. These aren't your average academic meetings; they’re your chance to share concerns, vent about deadlines, or even spill the latest LSHTM gossip (we all need a little drama, right?) It's an informal, no-judgment zone where PDs genuinely care about how you're doing - inside and outside the classroom. These lunchtime sessions also offer a chance to discuss ongoing coursework, share updates on assignments, and get valuable advice on career opportunities and professional development.

3. A lot of fun opportunities (yes, really!)

Think MSc life is all stress and no play? Not in PHGP! Our welcome and final week retreats are mandatory - yes, you read that right. This year, we kicked things off with a retreat to Streatley-on-Thames, where we hiked with our PDs, bonded over nature, and later, competed in a legendary batch games night. These retreats provide an excellent opportunity to form close friendships, interact with faculty in a relaxed setting, and start the programme with a strong sense of community. The final retreat offers a chance to reflect on the journey, celebrate achievements, and solidify networks that will last a lifetime.

In addition to retreats, PHGP students engage in various extracurricular activities, including social nights, networking events, and student-led initiatives. There's always something exciting happening, ensuring that students have a balanced experience that isn't just about studying but also about personal growth and enjoyment.

4. Special Framings Lectures - exclusive to PHGP

One of the coolest things about PHGP? Our Framings Lectures, designed specifically for us. We've already had speakers from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) sharing insights on global health challenges. These sessions are tailored to make sure PHGP students are getting unique, real-world perspectives that other programmes simply don't offer. The lectures are carefully curated to provide exposure to current global health issues, policy challenges, and innovative solutions, ensuring that PHGP students graduate with the knowledge and skills needed to make a meaningful impact in the field.

The Framings Lectures also serve as a platform for students to engage directly with leading experts, ask critical questions, and gain a deeper understanding of public health challenges. Guest speakers range from policymakers and researchers to frontline workers and NGO leaders, making these lectures a vital component of the PHGP experience.

5. A global classroom like no other

Unlike other MSc programmes, PHGP requires mandatory work experience for enrollment. What does that mean? It means you're surrounded by classmates who have already been in the field, making a real impact. From Kyrgyzstan to Tanzania, Peru to Panama, India to South Africa, and even New Zealand, our diverse cohort brings an incredible wealth of experience. Peer-to-peer learning here isn't just a concept - it's our daily reality. Each student brings a unique perspective, enriching discussions and fostering a truly global understanding of public health challenges.

The diversity of the PHGP cohort ensures that classroom discussions go beyond textbooks, incorporating firsthand accounts of real-world health interventions, challenges, and successes. This exposure prepares students for international careers, equipping them with the cultural competence and professional insight needed to thrive in global public health roles. Many students find lifelong mentors, collaborators, and friends through this network, making PHGP a uniquely enriching experience.

The Verdict: PHGP = The Best MSc Experience at LSHTM!

Whether you aspire to work in policy, field research, global health NGOs, or governmental agencies, PHGP prepares you for it all - while ensuring you have a great time doing it!

• Discover MSc Public Health for Global Practice.
• Contact Sidra via our contact student & alumni ambassador page.
• Read: Gabi's whirlwind of learning, friendship and growth in MSc Public Health for Global Practice