Overview

Type: Private, non-profit health sciences university

Founded: First academic programs launched in 2015

Affiliations / Sponsors: Partners In Health (PIH), Cummings Foundation, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Government of Rwanda

Location: Main campus in Butaro, Burera District, Northern Province, Rwanda — about 2.5 hours from Kigali. An urban campus is also planned in Masaka, Kigali.

Mission, Philosophy, and Unique Features

UGHE’s mission is to transform health care delivery by training health professionals to address systemic and social drivers of inequality.

Emphasis on hands-on learning, including fieldwork, clinical immersion, and community engagement.

Interdisciplinary curriculum integrating global health, leadership, ethics, equity, and One Health.

Academic Programs
Program Level / Duration Key Focus or Specializations
Master of Science in Global Health Delivery (MGHD) ~18 months full-time Global Surgery; Health Management; Gender, Sexual & Reproductive Health; One Health
MBBS-MGHD dual degree (Bachelor of Medicine & Bachelor of Surgery + Master in Global Health Delivery) ~6.5 years Combines medical training with global health delivery expertise
PhD in Medical Sciences & Health Equity Graduate level Tracks in Cancer Biology, Neurosciences, Infectious Diseases, Cardiovascular Medicine
Postgraduate Certificate in Health Professions Education (HPE) Short program Training for educators and leaders in health education
Executive Education / Certificate Courses Variable Short, tailored programs for health care leaders and system strengthening
Admissions & Eligibility

MBBS-MGHD: Requires strong secondary school performance in science subjects (e.g., Biology, Chemistry) or an equivalent bachelor’s degree.

MGHD: Requires a bachelor’s degree and strong academic record. Candidates are expected to demonstrate leadership and commitment to health equity.

Open to both Rwandan and international applicants, especially from Africa.

Scholarships and financial aid are available on both merit and need bases.

Campus and Facilities

The Butaro campus features teaching labs, a clinical simulation center, classrooms, dormitories, library, dining facilities, and administrative offices.

Students have access to Butaro District Hospital and the Butaro Cancer Centre for practical experience.

Governance / Leadership

Vice Chancellor: Prof. Philip Cotton

Chancellor: Dr. Jim Yong Kim

Accredited in Rwanda through the Higher Education Council and recognized in the East African region.

Challenges & Considerations

Rural location (Butaro) can present travel and accessibility challenges, though residential facilities are provided.

The MBBS-MGHD program is demanding, combining medical studies with public health training.

Tuition costs can be significant, but scholarships and aid are available.