Advance global health research in support of underserved populations.
Including 400-hours of mentored research, BU’s MS in Global Health Research is a STEM-approved, 34-credit program that will prepare you for careers in domestic or international research organizations, NGOs, universities, foundations, private industry, or to pursue DsC, PhD, DrPH, and other advanced degrees.

Curriculum
The Master of Science (MS) in Global Health Research aims to improve the health of underserved global populations through policy-relevant research.
As part of the Population Health Research umbrella program, the curriculum provides a fundamental grounding in quantitative and qualitative methods, emphasizing the development of analytical and technical skills to advance global health research and reduce the global burden of disease.
MS in Global Health Research Program Structure
Global Health Research students benefit from comprehensive training, faculty-mentored research, and real-world experience that shapes them into influential researchers with a wide range of industry-leading skills, including the ability to:
- Critically evaluate research reports and publications.
- Design data collection and management plans.
- Analyze and synthesize research findings to inform evidence-based policies or recommendations.
- Develop a scientific hypothesis and design a research study to test the hypothesis.
- Communicate research results in technical and non-technical terms to potential stakeholders.
Boston University also offers STEM-approved Master of Science degrees in Epidemiology, Climate and Health, Public Health Data Science, and more.
Flexible Options for Full- or Part-Time Study
Full-time Schedule:
Our Global Health Research specialization can be completed in 12 months through full-time study beginning during the summer term. All students (full and part time) will begin the program in July and must complete Essentials of Population Health Research, an online course, and Accelerated Training in Statistical Computing, which runs in late August over two weeks.
Part-time Schedule:
Global Health Research students can also complete the degree through part-time study of one to two courses per semester, finishing the program in an average of 24 months. All students (full and part time) will begin the program in July and must complete Essentials of Population Health Research, an online course, and Accelerated Training in Statistical Computing, which runs in late August over two weeks. Contact the program director, Andrew C. Stokes, PhD, for more information on part-time scheduling.
Specializations
Faculty Spotlight
Monica A. Onyango, PhD—Clinical Associate Professor, Global Health
Dr. Onyango has over 25 years of experience in health care delivery and management and research. Her current research interests focus on reproductive health, maternal and child health, HIV/AIDS, health care among populations affected by disasters and the role of nurses and midwives in improving health status of populations globally. Read more.
Outcomes
Global Health Research Career Outlook
Global health researchers are faced with complex, evolving challenges to human health on a daily basis. Navigating these challenges requires a vast understanding of relevant topics, including managing humanitarian emergencies, analyzing pharmaceutical systems, evidence-based writing in public health, and combating economic corruption.
Through the MS in Global Health Research, students build essential skills and the depth of knowledge needed for continued doctoral study or a career in domestic or international research organizations, NGOs, universities, foundations, or private industry. The global health field is booming, with employment growing by 20% from 2013-2017, and jobs expected to grow by more than 13% through 2027.
Admissions
MS in Global Health Research Admission Requirements
To be admitted into this MS in Global Health Research program, students must hold a bachelor’s degree or be on track to complete their degree prior to enrollment. Students are not required to submit GRE test scores as part of their application.
Find out more about admission requirements and application deadlines.
Become an Innovative Leader in Global Health Research
Are you ready to take the next step to earn your MS in Global Health degree? Request more information about the MS in Global Health Research.
You can also contact our team in School of Public Health Admissions Office at asksph@bu.edu or 617-358-4095 to schedule a visit or learn more about admission eligibility, degree requirements, deadlines, and application information.