Diploma of Global Health Fundamentals

The Diploma of Global Health Fundamentals consists of 30 ECTS or about five months of full-time study, which runs from September through January. All courses take place at the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona.

The programme combines lectures and active and participatory teaching methods. Students learn by doing and by solving problems, using a collaborative and interdisciplinary approach.

Programme of Studies 

Diploma of Global Health Fundamentals candidates complete the following 8 courses:

• Biostatistics for Global Health (4 ECTS)
• Determinants of Global Health (3 ECTS)
• Fundamentals of Epidemiology (5 ECTS)
• Fundamentals of Qualitative Health Research (3 ECTS)
• Global Health Challenges (4 ECTS)
• Health Economics (3 ECTS)
• Health Systems and Policy (4 ECTS)
• International Governance and Politics of Global Health (4 ECTS)

Candidates who graduate from the Diploma of Global Health Fundamentals are eligible to finish the Master of Global Health by completing the Advanced Topics in Global Health and Master Final Project modules with the approval of the programme directorate.

Marta García Ascaso, Student of the 2014-2015 Class

Entry requirements

• Undergraduate degree, preferably in health or life sciences or social sciences.
• At least one year of professional experience, preferably related to global health (internship and volunteer experience will be considered).
• Advanced level of English (if not a native English speaker, candidates need to provide an internationally recognized English proficiency certificate equivalent to a TOEFL score of 550 paper/213 internet/80 online, or IELTS score 6.).

We also value:

• Previous professional or voluntary experience in low- and middle-income countries or settings and/ or with vulnerable populations / communities
• Exposure to multicultural environments

Application

Interested candidates for the Diploma of Global Health Fundamentals must complete the application form and attach the following documentation:

• A current C.V. clearly stating academic qualifications and work experience
• A letter of motivation explaining their interest in Global Health, including past or current experience (academic and/or professional) and highlighting specific areas of professional interest.

Candidates who meet entry requirements will be invited to an admissions interview.

Academic year 2027-28 Admissions Calendar

First Application Period: From 18 September to 13 November 2026
Notification of the admission: 11 December 2026

Second Application Period: From 14 November 2026 to 8 January 2027
Notification of the admission: 5 February 2027

Third Application Period: From 9 January to 5 March 2027
Notification of the admission: 9 April 2027

Applications received after 5 March 2027 will be reviewed on a rolling basis depending on the places available in the programme.