Daniel M Maweu

The University of Stirling came highly recommended by three of my co-workers as the best university of choice in policy and research studies. The University is highly ranked both in the UK and in the world, thus this gave me confidence in the quality of training. Since my interest was acquiring research skills in global health, and combining this with Public Health Policy, there was no better fit than the University of Stirling.

Why Stirling?

During my course of study, a benefit of studying at Stirling was that I received a lot of support to think critically and put the theory taught in class into practice. I joined the Master of Public Health (MPH), Policy and Research, as a novice in research and so far I’m able to critically appraise any research paper as well as conduct both qualitative and quantitative research. The flexibility of paying tuition in monthly instalments is a big benefit to students who are unable to pay the full tuition fee at once. You also get a chance to access all learning resources online in the comfort of your home.

Features of the Master of Public Health (MPH) course

The features I liked most about my course were the range and flexibility of MPH modules available to students. You have the flexibility to follow your preferred professional track, as per your interest. The structure of the course has also made it easy for me to study remotely from Liberia, West Africa, as I work.

The lecturers are very experienced, professional, and easily accessible to the students for guidance whenever required. The classes are very interactive and engaging. The modules are well distributed throughout the study to maximise learning, ensuring the students get adequate time to achieve all their study outcomes.

The education has given me a solid foundation in public health research and policy. The online learning platform is very easy to use with all the necessary academic resources like the digital library, available with a click of a button. I also love the fact that I’m able to access all relevant software needed for my research studies including NVivo, SPSS, and STATA, among others.

Applying what I've learned

Learning public health concepts like social determinants of health, policy and research at the University was very helpful as a nurse midwife working with a social justice organisation which is dedicated to ensuring equal access to quality healthcare for all despite their social status, race, sex, etc. Through the MPH study course, I’ve come to realise that the solution to the majority of the patient health problems we encounter at the hospital lies at the community level. I’m currently applying the research concepts learned from the university in my programme evaluation. The public health policy course is helping me to navigate the complex world of public health decision-making. I’m currently participating in a national nursing and midwifery policy development activity. 

My advice for prospective students considering Stirling is that you will benefit from student-centred learning that will help you transform your dreams into practice. The University MPH course has a good mix of all that you need to excel in global health due to its good balance of public health intervention, public health research and healthcare policy. Despite being an online course, it is thorough and well-structured. 
  
I have enjoyed my academic work so far, and I feel I have more to offer as an independent researcher. The coursework has prepared me well for my future career as a policymaker in nursing and midwifery.