London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine: A Legacy of Global Health Leadership

The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), a postgraduate-only specialist university located in Bloomsbury, London, stands as a leading institution in public and global health research and education. With international sites and a history spanning over 125 years, LSHTM has established a reputation for pioneering advancements in the field.

Historical Overview

Founded in 1899, LSHTM has been at the forefront of global health research and teaching. Its long-established reputation is built on world-leading research. The Centre for History in Public Health (CHiPH), an academic research center within LSHTM, underscores the institution's commitment to understanding the historical context of public health challenges. Originating as the "AIDS Social History Programme" in 1988, CHiPH actively engages in public and policy initiatives, emphasizing the importance of the past in shaping present and future public health strategies.

Education and Programs

LSHTM provides research-led educational programmes in public and global health which offer a stimulating and global outlook. The school offers a range of courses, including intensive, in-person master's programmes, distance learning programmes (PG Certificate, PG Diploma, and Master’s), short courses, and research degrees. These specialized courses, available both in person and online, equip students with the knowledge and skills to address current and future health challenges, ranging from disease outbreaks to chronic conditions and the threats posed by climate change. Many intensive programmes at LSHTM are also open to medical students looking to intercalate to LSHTM after completing their third year of study at any recognised university globally.

The flexibility of study routes is a key feature, accommodating diverse student needs and preferences.

Research Opportunities

LSHTM provides a unique environment for research degree training, offering opportunities for research leading to the degrees of MPhil (Master of Philosophy), PhD (Doctor of Philosophy), and DrPH (Doctor of Public Health). Students can apply to conduct research within any of LSHTM’s three faculties: Epidemiology and Population Health, Infectious and Tropical Diseases, and Public Health and Policy.

LSHTM's research degree programmes examine ways of improving health, and investigate the aetiology, diagnosis, prevention and control of both communicable and non-communicable diseases. Doctoral theses can be desk-based or involve field or laboratory work.

Career Support

LSHTM provides a dedicated careers service available to intensive students and graduates for up to two years after course completion. Career consultants assist students in exploring employment options and career pathways, providing organizational support and coordinating a yearly timetable of workshops, discussion panels, mock interview training, and employment fairs. These resources ensure that students have the support needed to launch impactful and fulfilling careers that address global health challenges. Distance learning students can access many resources through the university’s online learning platform, as well as services offered via the University of London.

Rankings and Recognition

LSHTM consistently achieves high rankings, reflecting its commitment to academic excellence and research impact.

ShanghaiRanking's Global Ranking of Academic Subjects 2024: LSHTM is ranked 2nd in the world for Public Health.
Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU): In 2025, LSHTM was ranked 201 by Shanghai Jiao Tong University.
Best Global Universities Rankings: LSHTM was ranked 121 in 2024.

These rankings consider factors such as research output, citations, and contributions to academic fields.

Student Life and Services

LSHTM offers a range of student support services to enhance the overall student experience. These services include:

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Careers Service: Providing guidance and resources for career development.
Counselling: Offering support for students experiencing anxiety, stress, or other mental health issues.
Disability Support: Providing assistance and accommodations for students with disabilities.
Visas & Immigration Support: Assisting international students with visa and immigration matters.
Accommodation Advice: Helping students find suitable accommodation in London.
Student Hub: Providing registry services and general support.

LSHTM provides support to students which enhances the learning experience and offers assistance to new students even before arrival in London via social media groups and live online Q&A sessions, on topics from visas and accommodation to programme content.

The Library & Archives Service provides access to a huge range of books, journals and electronic resources, as well as advice and training for students. There are plenty of study spaces available within the Library and across LSHTM, and students also have access to study spaces across the University of London.

LSHTM IT Services provides a range of services for all intensive master's, research degree and diploma students at LSHTM, including: Horizon Remote Desktop (access LSHTM applications and drives remotely), storage space for your files and a generous print quota including printing from mobile devices.

Students can register with a local GP surgery when they arrive, usually during Welcome Week.

Campus Environment

LSHTM’s London campus offers high-quality facilities, including state-of-the-art lecture theatres, teaching and research spaces, laboratories, study spaces, and a library. Situated in Bloomsbury, LSHTM benefits from its proximity to other top-level universities. LSHTM students have access to Senate House Libraries, the British Library, and other historic facilities as members of the University of London. LSHTM teaching facilities are well funded and fully furnished with the latest equipment and technologies. The university is carrying out improvement works to the buildings, including building new laboratories and social space for students.

Read also: Legacy of Fordham University

Student Clubs and Networks

LSHTM has 13 cross-institution networks of academics collaborating and innovating to address global health challenges. Focusing on areas such as Climate Change & Planetary Health; Health in Humanitarian Crises; Malaria; and Vaccines, the Centres often host events and webinars throughout the year for students to learn more about these areas. Centres often also have Student Liaison Officer (SLO) positions for students to get involved with the centre activities.

Key Statistics

Ranking: #151
Academic Staff: 3,500
Students: 4,500
International Students: 3,500
Type: Public Institution

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