Professional Doctorate in Health
- Study mode
- Part-time
- Duration
- 54-96 months
- Start date and application deadlines
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- Start date
- September 2025
- Apply by:
- Starts on:
About this course
The Professional Doctorate in Health (DProf Health) is a new flexible programme of study aimed at those working in health-related environments. It provides an opportunity for students to explore real world issues to further research and make an original contribution to knowledge.
Introduction
The Professional Doctorate in Health programme has been designed for those working in healthcare related environments to embed and build upon applied research in advancing professional health care practice in an increasingly complex environment.
The programme of study offers an alternative to the PhD or more traditional research routes and is offered on a flexible part time basis taking into account the applicants’ professional context, prior learning, skills, work place priorities and experiences. Professional doctorates provide an opportunity for individuals to situate professional knowledge developed over time in a theoretical academic framework.
Professional Doctorates are available on a part-time basis based on the expectation that candidates will carry out their studies whilst they are engaged in relevant employment which informs their studies.
Who is this course for?
This programme is intended for healthcare professionals, or those working in related environments, who want to advance their research aspirations in health-related fields.
What you'll learn
- Analytical skills
- Research techniques
- Leadership skills
- Report writing
Course content
Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.
Year one
In year one, students will undertake two modules which consist of an introduction to doctoral research and an evidence-based practice and research module.
Modules
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| INTRODUCTION TO DOCTORAL RESEARCH (HEAL710) | 45 |
| EVIDENCE BASED PRACTICE AND RESEARCH (HEAL711) | 45 |
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
Year two
In year two, students will explore different methods of research and scholarship and consider how they may be applied to their study.
Modules
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| RESEARCH METHODS (HEAL712) | 45 |
| DESIGNING SCHOLARSHIP AND RESEARCH (HEAL713) | 45 |
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
Year three
In year three and beyond, students will undertake work on their professional doctorate thesis.
Modules
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| DOCTORAL THESIS (DDSC C105) | 180 |
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
Teaching and assessment
How you'll learn
This programme of study will equip students with the professional knowledge and skillset to become high-level scholar practitioners with primary and secondary research techniques that can be used in professional practice.
Our teaching places particular emphasis on the development of our students’ knowledge of key principles and current issues relevant to roles in education, health and social care.
Additionally, our teaching encourages students to engage with theoretical perspectives on local, national and global health concerns, consistent with doctoral level study.
The programme will also support the development of subject specific and key transferable skills necessary for employment in sectors where an understanding of varied dimensions of health are critical.
The curriculum also provides opportunities for students to enhance digital fluency through the use of the Virtual Learning Environment to access programme materials related to their programme.
How you're assessed
This programme includes independent and collaborative reflective exercises, discussions and assessment activities which have been chosen to suit students who learn in different ways or have personalities which are better suited to specific types of assessment.
In year three, students will begin their thesis paper which will allow them to critically explore a specific principle or theory in great detail, providing them with the opportunity to fully display their learning and knowledge in a traditional academic exercise.
Liverpool Hallmarks
We have a distinctive approach to education, the Liverpool Curriculum Framework, which focuses on research-connected teaching, active learning, and authentic assessment to ensure our students graduate as digitally fluent and confident global citizens.
The Liverpool Curriculum framework sets out our distinctive approach to education. Our teaching staff support our students to develop academic knowledge, skills, and understanding alongside our graduate attributes:
- Digital fluency
- Confidence
- Global citizenship
Our curriculum is characterised by the three Liverpool Hallmarks:
- Research-connected teaching
- Active learning
- Authentic assessment
All this is underpinned by our core value of inclusivity and commitment to providing a curriculum that is accessible to all students.
Your experience
Our postgraduate students will benefit from the School of Allied Health Professions and Nursing’s experience in delivering over 100 years of dynamic, research-led teaching. Our student satisfaction rates, which range from 93-100%, are testament to our School being a great place to improve your professional skills and prospects.
Explore where you'll study
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Careers and employability
Career support from day one to graduation and beyond
Career planning
Our campus Career Studio is a space for students and graduates to drop into and talk to a career coach. Career coaches are highly trained to help no matter what stage you are at in your career planning. You can access support to find and apply for full-time and part-time roles, placements, internships and graduate schemes. You will also find the help you need if you have a start-up idea or want to create a business plan. You can explore the world of work, prepare for job interviews, and access careers events and workshops. The Career Studio is open Monday to Friday from 10am-5pm, simply drop in at a time that works for you.
From education to employment
We develop our programmes with employers in mind. You will be supported to enhance your long-term employment prospects as you learn. We do this by exposing you to professionals, a variety of sectors and supporting you to work collaboratively with others to develop transferable skills. You are equipped with a clearer view of what to focus on in your area of interest, and to reflect on your studies. Our digital employability tools give you a tech-enhanced curriculum experience and make it easy for you to prepare for the world of work. You can use tools like the Handshake platform to connect with employers and message the Career Studio 24/7.
Networking events
You can start building good professional networks by attending events and employability activities. Our events are designed to develop your skills and expose you to many different employers, as well as to help you make contacts in your field. We help you improve your confidence when speaking to employers and give you access to unique opportunities. Our networking events also boost your understanding of the competencies and skills that employers are looking for in their recruitment process, giving you a competitive edge.
Fees and funding
Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.
Tuition fees
UK fees (applies to Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland)
Part-time place, per year - £2,503
Fees stated are for the academic year 2024/25 and are subject to change for 2025/26.
Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support.
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You can pay your tuition fees in instalments.
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All or part of your tuition fees can be funded by external sponsorship.
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International applicants who accept an offer of a place will need to pay a tuition fee deposit.
If you're a UK national, or have settled status in the UK, you may be eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Loan worth up to £12,167 to help with course fees and living costs. Learn more about paying for your studies.
Additional costs
We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This could include buying a laptop, books, or stationery.
Find out more about the additional study costs that may apply to this course.
Scholarships and bursaries
We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries that could help pay your tuition and living expenses.
Graduate Loyalty Advancement Scholarship
If you’re a University of Liverpool graduate starting this master’s degree with us, you could be eligible to receive a loyalty discount of up to £2,500 off your master’s tuition fees.
John Lennon Memorial Scholarship
If you’re a UK student, either born in or with strong family connections to Merseyside, you could be eligible to apply for a fee discount of up to £4,500. You’ll need to demonstrate an active interest in global, community and environmental issues to be considered.
Postgraduate Opportunity Bursary
If you’re a UK University of Liverpool graduate joining a master’s degree with us, you could be eligible to receive £3,000 off your tuition fees. You must have graduated in the last two years and received a widening access scholarship during your undergraduate studies.
Sport Liverpool Performance Programme
Apply to receive tailored training support to enhance your sporting performance. Our athlete support package includes a range of benefits, from bespoke strength and conditioning training to physiotherapy sessions and one-to-one nutritional advice.
Entry requirements
The qualifications and exam results you'll need to apply for this course.
| Qualification | Details |
|---|---|
| Postgraduate entry requirements | We accept a 2:2 honours degree from a UK university, or an equivalent academic qualification from a similar non-UK institution. Normally, candidates will be working in a healthcare or related environment in order to advance their research aspirations in Health related professions and fields. Candidates with an undergraduate degree, along with 2 years professional experience in a health environment, will be considered for Stage 1 entry. Candidates with a Master’s degree and significant professional experience in a health environment can be considered for entry via RPL portfolio up to a maximum of 90 M Level credits. |
| International qualifications |
If you hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent, but don’t meet the entry requirements for a master’s degree at Liverpool, a pre-master’s, delivered by our partner, University of Liverpool International College, can help you gain a place. Although there’s no direct pre-master’s route to this MPH, completing a pre-master’s pathway can guarantee you a place on many other postgraduate courses which may interest you. |
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Liverpool bursts with diversity and creativity which makes it ideal for you to undertake your postgraduate studies and access various opportunities for you and your family.
Accommodation
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Fees and Finance
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Contact us
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Last updated 8 April 2025 / / Programme terms and conditions