This course provides an evidence base for public health practice through empirical investigation, audit and evaluation. Studying for a PhD or MPhil is a truly challenging and deeply rewarding experience, and Swansea University provides an excellent environment in which to pursue your research studies. A research degree gives you the chance to pursue a research project based around your own passions and interests, leading to a qualification which can open the door to an academic career or boost employment prospects outside academia. The latest topics being explored by our students include the impact of a structured education package on nurses’ knowledge and practice in HBV and HBC in Saudi Arabia, and health visitors understanding of the principle ‘influencing policies affecting health’. A thesis of no more than 60,000 words is submitted, which demonstrates original research that contributes significantly to the subject area. This is then followed by an oral examination of the thesis (viva).