MSc Health Analysis, Policy & Management Ada Stephen
What were you doing prior to the MSc?
Before starting the MSc Health Analysis, Policy & Management (HAPM) I worked in medical sales and project management, with a focus on medical technologies, such as linear accelerators. My work exposed me to the operational side of healthcare but left me with a strong desire to influence broader system-level decisions, especially in health policy and planning. I wanted to understand how data can be used to improve healthcare outcomes, influence investment decisions, and strengthen primary care systems. The HAPM programme offered the perfect blend of analytics, economics, and real-world policy application, making it an ideal next step for my career.
What did you think of the programme overall?
The programme was incredibly rewarding albeit rigorous, practical, and deeply relevant. It was challenging at times, especially adjusting to the pace and scale of academic work after several years in the field. But the structure of the course, combining theoretical depth with applied case-based learning, made it easy to see the real-world impact of everything we were studying. I appreciated how it built from foundational skills to more complex analyses, with lots of opportunities to engage with real health data and current issues.
The programme was well-structured and truly holistic. Each module built on the other to provide a deep and well-rounded understanding of health systems. Foundations of Operational Research and Business Analysis helped me think critically and structure complex healthcare problems. Health Economics introduced me to economic evaluation and the importance of value-for-money in decision-making. Performance Management in Health and Social Care showed me how to measure and improve health system efficiency, while Managing Health Operations deepened my understanding of how healthcare services are delivered and optimised amongst other great modules.
Together, these modules complemented each other, blending policy, analytics, strategy, and practical management and provided a toolkit I can now confidently use in real-world settings.
What were the highlights for you?
The Becoming an Effective Health Analyst (BEHA) module was a major highlight. We worked on real consulting-style projects for clients like NHS Scotland and global health leaders. Each case helped us understand the complexity of healthcare problems - from cancer pathways in Scotland to the economic case for a COVID-19 levy in Ghana. These projects pushed me to apply what I had learned, communicate with confidence, and work as part of a diverse, collaborative team.
Another highlight was discovering my learning style. I’m an active learner and realising how much I thrive through hands-on engagement and teamwork. That insight helped me get the most out of every experience.
Were there any experiential elements to the MSc which you enjoyed?
Yes, the experiential elements were incredibly valuable.
We had direct access to real clients from NHS boards, public health leadership, and international academia. These weren’t just guest lectures, we engaged with them on actual projects, got feedback, and learned how to tailor insights for decision-makers.
The skills sessions between cases were also excellent. They helped us connect theory with practice, improve our data storytelling, and sharpen our communication - which is so important in health analytics.
Did you take advantage of any careers support at the university?
Yes, I actively engaged with the University’s career support services. I received tailored support with CV reviews and job application guidance, which helped me better position my skills and experience for the UK job market. I also attended all the career development sessions offered, which gave me a clearer understanding of what employers are looking for both in the UK and internationally.
In addition, serving as a student representative helped me develop key soft skills such as communication, stakeholder engagement, and teamwork particularly in working with diverse, multidisciplinary teams. These experiences have been instrumental in preparing me for the next stage of my career.
What skills have you acquired through doing the programme which will help in your career and future employment?
This programme helped me build a powerful skillset that includes
- Health data analysis (using tools like Excel, SPSS, and R)
- Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) for prioritising health investments
- problem structuring
- policy evaluation
- effective communication
- data storytelling
- client engagement
- team collaboration
- time management
- adaptability
It also helped me strengthen soft skills like stakeholder communication, systems thinking, and tailoring insights for policy audiences.
What are your plans post-graduation?
I plan to pursue a role in health policy analysis or digital health strategy, ideally working at the intersection of data, decision-making, and innovation in public health. I’m particularly interested in digital health investment in primary care, and I’m currently working on a dissertation on MCDA for prioritising digital health interventions, which I hope will open doors in policy, consulting, or public health innovation roles.
I’m also considering long-term opportunities in global health policy or a PhD in health systems strengthening.
Would you recommend this programme?
Absolutely, I would strongly recommend this programme to anyone passionate about improving healthcare systems through data and policy. It’s ideal if you want to bridge the gap between analytics and strategy and make real-world impact.
My advice to anyone considering it is to come with an open mind and be ready to work hard. Use your background, whether clinical, business, or tech as a strength. Don’t shy away from the technical bits; the support is there. Engage fully in the case studies, they are the heartbeat of this course. Stay curious, ask questions, and reflect often - that’s how the biggest growth happens.