This course proposes solutions to improve problems of public health in developing countries. It is based on an integrated approach to health problems and responds to the priority needs of populations in the Southern hemisphere since the knowledge that students can acquire on the course is usually directly applicable to the context of these countries.
By the end of their training, students are able to analyze the determining factors and measure the importance of health problems in developing countries ; to define priorities relating to health and development ; to design, implement and assess relevant health and medico-social intervention strategies and to contribute to the implementation of intersectoral policies and programmes relating to development. In this way, students who have already had professional responsibilities in a health district or a regional department, will be able to organize health and care services that are more effective, efficient and fair.
The study programme comprises 477.5 hours of class, seminars and practical work.
The study programme is worth 60 credits and is organized as follows:
Introduction to public health, 3 credits (30 hours);
Quantitative methods, 16 credits (177.5 hours);
Health policies and systems, 16 credits (150 hours);
Health promotion, 4 credits (45 hours);
Tackling public health problems, 5 credits (75 hours);
Final dissertation, 16 credits;
With the help of one of the coordinators, students must draw up a programme of study which is in line with the arrangements outlined below and have it approved by the programme management committee.
The language of instruction is French. A passive knowledge of scientific English is an added advantage. If necessary, remedial courses may be authorized by the programme management committee.
The compulsory and recommended courses are organized at the campuses of UCL – Brussels, ULB and ULg in groups of a whole day at a single campus to avoid unnecessary travelling.
Students benefit, where possible, from access to the various structures of the three Schools of Public Health as well as to the resources available to students of the three Faculties of Medicine at these three campuses.
