WHOgrad

WHOgrad is a global health graduate program established by the World Health Organization to recruit and train early-career professionals for leadership roles in global health, with an emphasis on field epidemiology, health systems strengthening, and humanitarian response.

Introduced in the early 2010s as part of a broader effort to bolster the global health workforce, the program offers a two-year, rotating placement across WHO regional offices and field missions. Participants undertake rotations in epidemiology, health information systems, emergency response, and policy development, and complete a capstone project aligned with WHO priorities.

Eligibility typically includes a master's degree or higher in medicine, public health, epidemiology, health administration, or related fields, with relevant field experience preferred. Applicants must demonstrate language proficiency in English, and often in another official WHO language. Selection is competitive, based on online applications, references, written assessments, and interviews.

Outcomes include placements in WHO country offices, regional bureaus, and partner organizations; graduates contribute to disease surveillance, outbreak investigation, health systems strengthening, and policy development. The program aims to foster a network of alumni who can pivot between field operations and headquarters work.

Critics note limited capacity and concerns about the alignment of placements with donor priorities, while proponents highlight its role in building a responsive, skilled health workforce for global health challenges.