Public Health Education, Practice, and Research in Pakistan

Pakistan is a South Asian developing country with a high burden of communicable and non-communicable diseases. In Pakistan, public health (PH) degrees include a Bachelor of science in Public Health (BSPH), a Master of science in Public Health (MSPH), and PhD in Public Health. BSPH is a four-year program that aims to improve the health of the population. The BS degree can be completed within a maximum of 6 years. Those who pursue an MSPH degree are likely to find attractive job opportunities and salary potential after graduation. In Pakistan, 44 public and private institutions offer PH degree programs. The Higher Education Commission (HEC) is the government body that recognizes PH degree programs. After completing the education, the graduates are able to identify, prevent, and manage PH problems in Pakistan. Pakistan’s demographic and epidemiological landscape pose PH challenges. Little is known about whether the education, research, or practice in these programs is sufficient to meet the needs of the national health care system. So, in this chapter PH education, research, and practice in Pakistan will be discussed.