Bachelor of Health Science/Bachelor of Arts Majoring in Public Health and Health Promotion and Climate and Social Justice

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Swinburne University of Technology

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Health Science/Bachelor of Arts majoring in Public Health and Health Promotion and Climate and Social Justice at Swinburne University of Technology combines scientific knowledge with social and environmental perspectives to prepare students for meaningful careers that improve community wellbeing. It is an excellent choice for those who want to understand how health, climate, policy, and social justice intersect and learn how to create positive change at both local and global levels.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1

In your first year, you establish a strong foundation in health science and social issues. You study subjects such as Anatomy and Physiology, Introduction to Health Sciences, and Digital Health Foundations, alongside Environment and Society: Problems and Solutions and Technology and Society. These units help you understand the relationship between human health, society, and the environment.

Year 2

The second year builds your understanding of disease prevention, population health, and social change. Through units such as Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, Epidemiology, Indigenous Health, and Skills and Strategies for Social Change, you learn how to analyse public health challenges and develop initiatives that make a positive difference in communities.

Year 3

In your third year, you strengthen your research, communication, and leadership skills while exploring climate justice and policy issues. Subjects including Research Methods for Health Science, Health Communication, Changing our Climate, and Conflict, Justice and Peace encourage you to apply evidence-based thinking to real-world environmental and public health challenges.

Year 4

During the final year, you bring together your knowledge from both disciplines through advanced study and applied projects. Units such as Leadership and Innovation in Health Promotion, Public Health Nutrition, and Changemakers in Action help you refine your professional skills and prepare for careers that combine health promotion with sustainability and social impact.

Focus Areas

Public health, health promotion, climate justice, sustainability, epidemiology, health communication, social policy, environmental change, community wellbeing, Indigenous health, leadership, and social innovation.

Learning Outcomes

Develop the ability to promote population health, interpret public health evidence, design effective health promotion strategies, understand climate and social justice challenges, communicate with diverse communities, and create innovative solutions to complex health and environmental issues.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The program incorporates Work Integrated Learning and industry-focused experiences that allow students to apply their knowledge in practical settings. These opportunities help prepare graduates for careers in health promotion, community development, sustainability, policy, and public health practice.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

Swinburne is recognised for its strong industry connections and practical approach to education. This interdisciplinary degree equips graduates with versatile skills that are valued across public health, environmental policy, government, and community organisations.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Swinburne University of Technology, students pursuing the Bachelor of Health Science/Bachelor of Arts Majoring in Public Health and Health Promotion and Climate and Social Justice are immersed in a dynamic learning environment that emphasizes practical skills and real-world applications. The program is designed to equip you with the knowledge and experience necessary to tackle pressing health and social issues. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources, you will engage in hands-on learning that prepares you for a successful career in public health and social justice.

Here’s how you can expect to gain practical experience throughout your studies:

- Internships and Work Placements: The program includes opportunities for internships with community organizations, health agencies, and NGOs, allowing you to apply your learning in real-world settings.
- Group Projects: Collaborative projects are a key component, where you will work with peers to address public health challenges, fostering teamwork and communication skills.
- Field Trips: Engage in field trips to various health and social justice organizations, providing insights into the practical applications of your studies.
- Research Laboratories: Access to dedicated research labs where you can conduct experiments and studies related to public health and climate issues.
- Digital Tools and Software: Utilize industry-standard software for data analysis and health promotion campaigns, enhancing your technical skills.
- Libraries and Learning Resources: Benefit from extensive library resources, including access to databases and journals specific to health science and social justice.
- Swinburne’s Health and Wellbeing Centre: This facility offers practical experience in health promotion and community engagement initiatives.

These experiential learning opportunities are designed to ensure that you not only understand theoretical concepts but also gain the practical skills needed to make a difference in the field.

Embarking on this journey at Swinburne will empower you to become a leader in public health and social justice, making a meaningful impact in your community and beyond.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Choosing to pursue a Bachelor of Health Science/Bachelor of Arts Majoring in Public Health and Health Promotion and Climate and Social Justice at Swinburne University of Technology opens up a world of opportunities. Graduates from this program are well-equipped to tackle pressing health issues and advocate for social justice, making them highly sought after in various sectors. Typical job roles include:

- Public Health Officer
- Health Promotion Specialist
- Community Development Worker
- Environmental Health Officer

Here’s how Swinburne supports your journey towards a successful career in these fields:

- Career Development Services: Swinburne offers tailored career advice, resume workshops, and interview preparation to help you stand out in the job market.
- Employment Statistics: The university boasts a strong employment rate, with 85% of graduates finding work within four months of completing their degree, and the average starting salary for graduates in health-related fields is around $65,000.
- University–Industry Partnerships: Swinburne collaborates with leading organizations such as the Victorian Department of Health and local NGOs, providing students with valuable networking opportunities and real-world experience through internships and projects.
- Long-term Accreditation Value: This program is designed to meet the standards set by relevant professional bodies, ensuring that your qualifications remain relevant and respected in the industry.
- Graduation Outcomes: Graduates are not only prepared for immediate employment but also equipped with skills that are transferable across various sectors, enhancing their career longevity and adaptability.

Further Academic Progression: After completing this program, you can continue your studies by pursuing a Master’s degree in Public Health, Health Promotion, or Environmental Policy. Additionally, you may consider postgraduate research opportunities, such as a PhD, to delve deeper into specific areas of interest and contribute to the field through academic research. This pathway not only enhances your expertise but also opens doors to advanced roles in academia, research, and policy-making.

Embarking on this educational journey at Swinburne will not only prepare you for a fulfilling career but also empower you to make a meaningful impact in the world.