Training and development (public health practitioner)

Public health practitioners generally have a relevant degree or equivalent experience, and it is now possible to undertake a public health practitioner degree via a level 6 apprenticeship

As their career progresses, public health practitioners may move into line management or senior management roles and will often undertake project management training or work towards a Master’s degree.

Practitioners can also undertake specialty training in public health  to qualify for specialist posts, such as consultants and directors of public health. Others may decide to follow an academic pathway, teaching and researching on public health issues.

Practitioners are encouraged to keep a portfolio or record of evidence of their training and experience. The portfolio may be submitted to the UKPHR for registration as a practitioner.

Public health practitioners can also become members of the Faculty of Public Health (FPH) if they belong to a regulated profession or have obtained registration with a professional body, have a graduate degree relevant to public health, and have three years of experience working in core public health.  

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