Master of Public Health

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

Deakin University

Program Overview

The Master of Public Health at Deakin University develops advanced knowledge and skills to address complex public health challenges and improve the health and wellbeing of communities locally and globally. The course provides a flexible structure with core public health studies and electives across areas such as health promotion, epidemiology, health economics and management, public health nutrition, humanitarian assistance and disability and inclusion.

Curriculum Structure:

Year 1: Covers core public health subjects including Principles and Practice of Public Health, Contemporary Health Issues and Policies, Health Promotion, Health Equity and Human Rights, Epidemiology 1, Biostatistics 1, Health Protection and Research Literacy or Research Methods in Health and Social Development.

Year 2: Builds specialised knowledge through eight approved electives across selected fields of study. Students may also undertake a minor or major research project, depending on their chosen pathway and eligibility.

Focus Areas: Public Health, Epidemiology, Biostatistics, Health Promotion, Health Policy, Health Equity, Health Protection, Health Economics and Management, Public Health Nutrition, Humanitarian Assistance and Disability and Inclusion.

Learning Outcomes: Graduates develop skills to apply advanced public health knowledge, critically evaluate evidence, analyse health issues, develop and evaluate strategies to prevent disease and injury, and contribute to improving population health.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): The program provides advanced postgraduate education in public health and is recognised at Australian Qualifications Framework Level 9.

Reputation (Employability): The program develops analytical, research, policy and practical skills for roles across government, health services, public health organisations, community organisations, research institutions and international health organisations.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Deakin University, the Master of Public Health provides opportunities to apply public health knowledge through work-integrated learning, internships, collaborative research and work-based training. Students can also develop research experience through minor or major research projects and undertake an international study tour as an elective.

Work-Integrated Learning: Many units incorporate work-integrated learning activities, allowing students to apply public health knowledge in practical settings.
Internships and Work-Based Training: Eligible students can undertake internships and collaborative research or work-based training arrangements to gain professional experience and develop industry connections.
Research Projects: Students interested in research can undertake a Minor Research Project or Major Research Project, developing practical experience in public health research and research methods.
International Study Tour: Students can undertake International Perspectives in Health and Social Development as an elective, providing an opportunity to explore health and social development from an international perspective.
Applied Research: The course provides opportunities to engage with applied research through research-focused electives and project work, supporting the development of research and analytical skills.
Industry Connections: Deakin works with industry partners who provide applied research opportunities and work placements, helping students connect their academic learning with public health practice.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The Master of Public Health at Deakin University provides opportunities to build advanced knowledge and professional skills across public health practice, research, policy and health promotion. The flexible course structure allows students to develop specialised knowledge through electives and research projects based on their interests and career goals.

Specialisation Opportunities: Students can develop expertise through elective study in areas such as epidemiology, health promotion, health protection, health economics and management, public health nutrition, humanitarian assistance, and disability and inclusion.
Research Pathway: Students interested in research can undertake a Minor Research Project or Major Research Project, providing preparation for further research-focused study and professional research roles.
Professional Development: Work-integrated learning, internships and work-based training provide opportunities to strengthen professional skills and develop connections with public health organisations.
Further Study: The research and advanced academic skills developed through the course can support progression to higher research degrees, including doctoral-level study, subject to admission requirements.
Career Opportunities: Graduates can pursue opportunities across government, health services, community organisations, public health agencies, research institutions and international health and development organisations.