Master in Emerging Infections and Pandemics MSc

The University of Liverpool, founded in 1882 and located in the vibrant city of Liverpool, is a research-intensive institution with a global student body of around 32,000, including approximately 17,700 international students. The university offers a wide range of programs—over 200—across sciences, engineering, humanities, health and business, combining rigorous academics with practical industry links. Its historic campus and city connections provide a lively cultural setting and strong transport links across the UK and beyond.

Research and employability are central to the Liverpool experience, with interdisciplinary projects, industry partnerships and extensive placement opportunities embedded in many degrees. Students benefit from modern facilities, dedicated career services and a supportive academic community that helps translate theory into professional practice. The university's global networks also create exchange and collaboration pathways for study abroad and joint research.

International students receive comprehensive support from pre-arrival guidance to on-campus services, including English language support, visa advice and student societies that foster social integration. Liverpool’s affordable living costs relative to other UK cities, combined with its cultural life and sporting traditions, make it attractive to students seeking a balanced academic and social experience. The University of Liverpool is well-suited to ambitious students aiming for impactful research, strong career outcomes and a cosmopolitan student life.

What does this course offer?

While studying the MSc Emerging Infections and Pandemics, you will be provided with a breadth of interdisciplinary expertise and practical role-play in the epidemiology, immunology, control and management of epidemics and pandemics in a One Health (integrated medical and veterinary) context. You will experience sessions led by leading experts in their respective fields.

This MSc takes you from the laboratory bench into the highly topical field of modelling, showing you how models and data can be used to both understand how epidemics spread and contribute to outbreak control. You will be introduced to the different phases, complexities, and cross-sectoral workings of outbreaks at global, national, and local levels. Through this, you will come to understand the critical role of policy, communication and the media in the success (or otherwise) of translating scientific knowledge into effective disease control.

Why Liverpool?

Liverpool has a long-established, distinguished track record in the understanding and management of infectious disease. The work conducted in The University of Liverpool and Liverpool City Region continues to have an international impact on the management of infectious disease outbreaks and epidemics.

Who is this course for?

This master’s degree is for graduates from a biology or biomedical sciences background who want to develop understanding and skills in statistical analyses, infection biology, and disease surveillance, with the interdisciplinary expertise required to prevent, monitor and control medical and veterinary infectious disease outbreaks.