Faculty of Medical Sciences

Postgraduate Programmes

UWI-PAHO Postgraduate Certificate and Postgraduate Diploma in Health Policy and Health Systems

About the Programme

The University of the West Indies (UWI) and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) have collaborated to develop postgraduate certificate and postgraduate diploma programmes in Health Policy and Health Systems. These programmes, designed to develop capacity in health policy and executing health systems leadership, are intended for officials from ministries of health, health-related civil society organisations, and non-health professionals with an interest in public health and public policy.

A blended learning approach, consisting primarily of online delivery will be used during this programme. The taught courses will be delivered through a mix of lectures and self-directed individual and group sessions. Instruction will include: case-based learning, synchronous and asynchronous discussions and in-class group work and activities.

Full-time or part-time study options are available:
 
•           Full-time – over one year
•           Part-time – over two years

What Will I Study?

The UWI-PAHO Postgraduate Certificate and Postgraduate Diploma in Health Policy and Health Systems programmes utilise a critical thinking approach to explore strategies for effective healthcare leadership and policymaking.

Topics to be covered include:

  • Core Public Health competencies with an emphasis on leadership and governance
  • Management of human, financial and other health system resources and health technologies

For the diploma programme, the practicum will take place in collaboration with the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and may include both virtual and face-to-face interactions with selected health system agencies, supported by PAHO and UWI facilitators.

Facilities and Resources

Classes will occur via a blended learning format, facilitated by state-of-the-art teleconferencing facilities.

Career Opportunities

If you want to:

  • Enhance your capacity to contribute to health system strengthening, whether in the public, private or civil society organisation sector

 

  • Secure a relevant qualification for advancement to a managerial or leadership role within your institution or another area of public health practice

 

  • Experience a practical orientation to the work and activities of the Pan American Health Organization

 
Then this course is for you!

Additional Information

Classes are held on weekdays only.

Get Started

At a Glance

  • Degree Level: Postgraduate
  • Qualification: Certificate/Diploma
  • Duration: Full time - over 1 year / Part time - over 2 years

Contact


Programme Details

Both programmes are comprised of core and elective courses which include:

Graduate Certificate (12 credits) – 3 core and 1 elective three-credit courses

Core Courses

  1. Health governance
  2. Health care systems
  3. Health economics

Elective Courses

  1. Public health leadership
  2. Human resources for health
  3. Health promotion

Graduate Diploma (21 credits) – 4 core and 2 elective three- credit courses and the internship (3 credits)
 
Core Courses

  1. Health governance
  2. Health economics
  3. Health care systems
  4. Medicines and other health technologies

 
Elective Courses

  1. Public health leadership
  2. Human resources for health
  3. Health promotion
  4. Understanding telehealth and telemedicine

Practicum

  1. Internship in public health at PAHO

Please note that Students who complete the Postgraduate Certificate programme can upgrade to the Postgraduate Diploma programme by taking the additional requisite courses

The UWI-PAHO Postgraduate Certificate and Postgraduate Diploma in Health Policy and Health Systems programmes are self- financed programmes. The tuition fee is:

Postgraduate Certificate
Regional Students:    BDS $7,430.00                              
International Students:    BDS $8,800.00
 
Postgraduate Diploma
Regional Students:    BDS $13,000.00
International Students:    BDS $15,400.00

The other annual University Fees are NOT included in the cost of the tuition fee.

Applications are accepted from November to June. However, expressions of interest are accepted ALL year.

Candidates should possess:

  • A Bachelor’s degree in any of the medical, Nursing or Health Sciences, Biological Sciences, Management Sciences, Health planning or relevant professional qualifications.
  • Technical and/or professional qualification(s) at the undergraduate or postgraduate level awarded by an approval body recognized by the University of the West Indies and having a minimum of two (2) year’ experience.
  • Other qualifications and at least two (2) years’ experience which in the opinion of the University are of particular relevance to the programme may be considered for special admission.

 
A current curriculum vitae CV, two (2) referee reports, academic transcript and letter of intent should accompany the application.
 
Candidates must have their own laptop computers and possess good computing skills.
 
Applicants may be required to participate in an interview.

Visit the Admissions website to view Entry Requirements and to Apply Now ».