As countries continue to strengthen their public health systems and respond to increasingly complex health challenges, the demand for professionals with advanced, practice-oriented training continues to grow.

Recognizing this need, the RAK Medical & Health Sciences University (RAKMHSU) and the International Academy of Public Health (IAPH) have launched two new online master programs designed to prepare the next generation of public health leaders through flexible, competency-based graduate education.

The Master of Science (MSc) in "Public Health” and the Master of Science (MSc) in "Epidemiology in Practice” were developed following training needs assessment and extensive discussions and consultations with public health stakeholders. Together, these efforts identified a growing demand for flexible, high-quality postgraduate education that equips professionals with the competencies needed to address current and emerging workforce needs while allowing them to continue their professional careers.

Jointly delivered by RAK Medical & Health Sciences University (RAKMHSU) and IAPH, both programs are accredited by the Commission for Academic Accreditation (CAA) in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and offered through a flexible modular online format, expanding access to accredited graduate education for health professionals across the region and beyond. The partnership brings together RAKMHSU's excellence in accredited graduate education, research, and academic innovation with IAPH's expertise in competency-based public health education and workforce development to deliver high-quality, practice-oriented master's programs that respond to regional and global public health priorities.

"Public health is evolving rapidly, and so are the competencies required of its workforce," said Prof. Yousef Khader, Chairperson of the Scientific Council at IAPH. "These programs were developed in response to identified workforce needs and are designed to equip professionals with the practical knowledge, leadership skills, and evidence-based approaches needed to strengthen health systems and improve population across diverse settings."

The MSc in Public Health prepares professionals to address complex public health challenges through interdisciplinary, evidence-based learning. The curriculum covers epidemiology, biostatistics, health economics, leadership, governance, and emerging areas such as artificial intelligence in public health, preparing graduates to contribute to health policy, program implementation, research, and health system strengthening.

The MSc in Epidemiology in Practice focuses on applied epidemiology and prepares professionals to investigate disease outbreaks, strengthen surveillance systems, manage public health emergencies, and design evidence-based interventions that support public health action.

Each program comprises 36 credit hours delivered over 18–24 months through a flexible online modular format. Learning combines self-paced study, expert-led sessions, applied assignments, and supervised research, enabling participants to apply new knowledge directly within their professional settings. 

Eligible graduates of recognized Field Epidemiology Training Programs (FETPs) may also receive credit-hour exemptions based on their level of training.

The programs are intended for professionals working in ministries of health, healthcare