Note: This fellowship is now expired. The information below is for reference only.
The LSHTM COMPASS Fellowship 2025 was a prestigious opportunity for African public health professionals seeking advanced training and hands-on experience. Offered by the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) in collaboration with EDCTP, this fellowship supported a fully funded master’s degree by distance learning in Clinical Trials or Epidemiology, coupled with a 6–12 month paid internship at a recognized public health institution in sub-Saharan Africa.
The application deadline was August 15, 2025 (23:59 GMT).
Why Apply for the LSHTM COMPASS Fellowship?
The fellowship aimed to strengthen Africa’s public health capacity by developing emerging researchers and professionals. Benefits included:
Access to LSHTM’s global academic network
Specialized mentoring from public health experts
Practical experience in African research institutions
Flexible distance learning while maintaining professional roles
This unique combination of academic training and applied experience enabled fellows to contribute directly to regional health improvements while advancing their careers.
Programme Structure
The COMPASS Fellowship had two integrated components:
1. Two-Year MSc Programme by Distance Learning
Choose between MSc in Clinical Trials or MSc in Epidemiology
Flexible online modules supported by expert faculty
Study while continuing professional duties
2. Paid 6–12 Month Internship
Hosted at a sub-Saharan African research or policy institution
Internship placements arranged in collaboration with LSHTM and partner organizations
Applicants could choose to apply for full fellowship (MSc + internship) or partial support (MSc or internship only)
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants needed to meet the following requirements:
Citizenship of a sub-Saharan African country
Hold a first or second-class honours degree or relevant professional qualification with 3+ years of experience
Employed by a local African organization for at least 12 months
Active involvement in public health fields such as:
Maternal and child health
HIV, TB, malaria
Emerging infections
Diarrhoeal diseases
Climate-related infectious diseases
AMR and NCD comorbidities
Meet LSHTM’s academic standards for distance learning
Employer support with commitment to retain fellow for at least two years post-fellowship
Who Should Apply?
The fellowship encouraged applications from underrepresented and underserved groups, including:
Women researchers
Non-anglophone candidates meeting English requirements
Applicants from low-capacity African institutions
Candidates with confirmed or flexible internship placements
Fellowship Benefits
Selected fellows received:
100% tuition coverage for the MSc programme
Paid internship at a recognized African host institution
Mentorship from academic and policy experts
Access to international research networks
Opportunity to contribute to regional health system strengthening
This combination of academic credentials and practical experience prepared fellows to lead innovations in African public health.
Application Process
Applicants submitted two separate applications:
1. Fellowship Application (COMPASS Portal)
CV
Cover letter
Proof of nationality
Employer support letter
Additional supporting documents
2. Academic Application (LSHTM Portal)
Apply for MSc in Clinical Trials or Epidemiology by Distance Learning (if not already enrolled)
Deadline: August 15, 2025
Email Contact: [email protected]
Can Current MSc Students Apply?
Yes, if:
You are in first year and committed to completing the program, or
In final year needing support to finish coursework
This ensured flexibility for candidates at different stages of study.
Conclusion: Strengthen Africa’s Public Health
The LSHTM COMPASS Fellowship 2025 was a premier opportunity to gain advanced skills, mentorship, and international exposure in epidemiology and clinical trials. Fellows gained both academic qualifications and practical experience, empowering them to tackle Africa’s most pressing public health challenges.
FAQs
Q1: Who was eligible for the fellowship?
A: Citizens of sub-Saharan African countries working in public health with a degree or equivalent experience.
Q2: What did the fellowship cover?
A: 100% MSc tuition, paid internship, mentorship, and access to international networks.
Q3: What study options were available?
A: MSc in Clinical Trials or Epidemiology by distance learning, plus a paid internship.
Q4: Could current LSHTM MSc students apply?
A: Yes, first-year students or those completing coursework could apply under specified conditions.