Compare roles in health

Not sure where to start with the hundreds of NHS careers? Use our compare roles section to get bite-size information on the entry requirements and training, pay and conditions, prospects and skills needed of up to three roles. If there is something that you think you could do, then get more in-depth information on the role.

Don't forget, you can also save your role comparisons by registering with us.  

  1. Public health consultants and specialists

    Public health specialists and consultants help people and communities maximise their potential for a healthy, happy and productive life, so they can live healthier for longer. 

    The main entry route is to complete specialty training in public health. You’ll usually need a medical degree, an undergraduate degree with a 2:1 grade or higher, or a Master’s degree or PhD. Eligibility criteria are updated annually and can be found on Health Education England's specialty recruitment website. Training typically takes five years which usually includes one year on an academic course, and two years in specialty training posts.
    Hours of work are usually 37.5 per week, although you may also be asked to attend evening meetings or events. As a specialist working at consultant level in the NHS, your salary will be between £84,559 and £114,003. If you choose specialty training as a route to consultant level, you can expect to earn a salary of at least £39,467 during your training.
    You'll be flexible to cope with multiple and changing demands, meet tight deadlines and have a high level of intellectual skill. You'll have political awareness as well as an ability be tactful and diplomatic and be able to advise, challenge, advocate and influence. You'll be able to understand other cultures and work across organisational boundaries.
    You could specialise or conduct research in areas such as dental public health, infectious diseases and hazards (epidemiology) or health improvement, teach public health students or postgraduate students in training or progress to a strategic or leadership position.
Make a comment or report a problem with this page

Help us improve

This form is for you to tell us about something that could be improved about the website or if there's anything wrong, incorrect or inaccurate with what you see. 

If you have a query about a career in the NHS, please visit our contact us page and call or email us.