Competencies and applicability of the Master of Public Health (MPH) qualification. A qualitative study of graduates from South African Universities

Gwini, Grace Paidamoyo

Competencies and applicability of the Master of Public Health (MPH) qualification. A qualitative study of graduates from South African Universities

Thesis / Dissertation

2025

Publisher

University of Cape Town

Department

Department of Public Health and Family Medicine

Faculty

Faculty of Health Sciences

Abstract

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the critical role of public health professionals in mitigating the crisis and exposed significant weaknesses in global healthcare systems. Graduates with Master of Public Health (MPH) degrees and other public health qualifications played pivotal roles in pandemic response, contributing to surveillance, policy development, community engagement, and health systems strengthening. This study evaluates the competencies of MPH graduates from South African universities, assesses their preparedness for public health roles, and explores the rationale for integrating qualitative COVID-19 study components to enhance understanding of their contributions. Methods: This qualitative exploratory study involved in-depth, one-on-one interviews with 40 MPH graduates from eight South African universities. Data was collected between 2021 and 2022 as the qualitative component of a larger mixed-methods study on the competencies and applicability of MPH training in South Africa. Participants were purposively selected to ensure diversity in institutional background, years of graduation (pre-2012 and post-2016), gender, and nationality. Interviews were conducted using a semi-structured guide, audio-recorded with consent, transcribed verbatim, and anonymised. Thematic analysis was conducted using a collaboratively developed codebook to identify key roles, competencies, and training gaps reported by graduates. Results: MPH graduates have taken up roles in international organizations, NGOs, local governments, and academia. Their MPH degrees facilitated career advancement by equipping them with leadership, management, research, analytical, and communication skills. However, gaps in practical training, advanced data analysis, program management, and emergency preparedness were identified. Graduates emphasized the need for more hands-on training and specialized skills development to align with evolving workplace demands. Conclusion: The MPH program is integral in preparing graduates for diverse public health roles, enabling them to influence policy and practice while fostering career growth. Addressing identified gaps through enhanced practical training and aligning curricula with employer needs are crucial to ensuring graduates can effectively tackle contemporary public health challenges. These improvements will strengthen health systems and improve population health outcomes, particularly in the face of future public health crises.