Master of Public Health (Applied research)

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

La Trobe University

Program Overview

The Master of Public Health (Applied research) at La Trobe University is a 2-year full-time postgraduate program designed to develop advanced knowledge and practical skills in public health research. It combines core public health studies with specialised applied research and elective study.

Curriculum Structure:

Year 1: Covers core public health subjects including Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Health Policy Development and Implementation, Health Promotion Strategy and Practice, Health Systems, Principles of Public Health, Public Health Responses, Social and Cultural Perspectives in Public Health, and Systems Thinking and Leadership.

Year 2: Includes 60 credit points in the Applied Research specialisation and 60 credit points of electives. The specialisation involves conducting a research project addressing public health issues, with areas including epidemiology, global health, health policy and management, health promotion and environmental health.

Focus Areas: Public Health Research, Epidemiology, Global Health, Health Policy and Management, Health Promotion, Environmental Health, Health Systems, Biostatistics and Evidence-Based Practice.

Learning Outcomes: Graduates will be able to critically analyse complex public health challenges, design and evaluate public health initiatives, apply research principles, analyse health data and evidence, communicate research findings effectively, and develop evidence-based approaches to improving population health.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): The program is an AQF Level 9 Masters degree. Specific professional accreditation is not mentioned on the official program page.

Reputation (Employability): The program provides practical research experience through supervised public health research and industry engagement, preparing graduates for roles in public health, health policy, health promotion and research, as well as further academic study such as a PhD.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At La Trobe University, the Master of Public Health (Applied Research) program is designed to provide students with hands-on experience that is essential for a successful career in public health. The program emphasizes practical skills through a variety of engaging learning opportunities, including group projects, internships, and access to state-of-the-art facilities. Students will benefit from a rich learning environment that combines theoretical knowledge with real-world applications, ensuring they are well-prepared to tackle public health challenges.

Here are some key experiential learning opportunities and resources available to you in this program:

- Internships: Gain valuable experience through placements in public health organizations, allowing you to apply your knowledge in real-world settings.
- Group Projects: Collaborate with peers on research projects that address current public health issues, fostering teamwork and communication skills.
- Digital Tools: Utilize software such as SPSS and NVivo for data analysis and qualitative research, equipping you with essential technical skills.
- Field Trips: Participate in excursions to health organizations and community health initiatives, providing insights into practical applications of public health theories.
- Research Laboratories: Access dedicated research facilities equipped for public health studies, enabling you to conduct experiments and gather data.
- Libraries and Resources: Benefit from extensive library resources, including access to databases and journals specific to public health research.
- Public Health Institutes: Engage with La Trobe’s partnerships with various public health institutes, enhancing your learning through expert-led seminars and workshops.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating with a Master of Public Health (Applied Research) from La Trobe University opens up a world of opportunities in the public health sector. Graduates are well-prepared for roles such as Public Health Researcher, Health Policy Analyst, and Epidemiologist, among others. These positions not only offer a chance to make a significant impact on community health but also come with competitive salaries and strong job prospects.

Here’s what you can expect in terms of support and outcomes:

- University Services: La Trobe offers dedicated career services, including resume workshops, interview preparation, and networking events with industry professionals to help you secure employment.
- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: The university boasts a high employment rate for graduates in health-related fields, with many securing roles shortly after graduation. Average salaries for public health professionals can range from AUD 70,000 to AUD 100,000, depending on the role and experience.
- University–Industry Partnerships: La Trobe has established partnerships with leading health organizations and government agencies, providing students with valuable internship opportunities and real-world experience.
- Long-term Accreditation Value: The Master of Public Health program is accredited by relevant professional bodies, ensuring that your qualification is recognized and respected in the industry.
- Graduation Outcomes: Graduates from this program have gone on to work in various sectors, including government, non-profit organizations, and private health companies, contributing to significant public health initiatives.

Further Academic Progression: After completing your Master of Public Health, you may choose to pursue a PhD in Public Health or related fields, allowing you to engage in advanced research and contribute to academic knowledge. This pathway can lead to roles in academia, research institutions, or high-level policy-making positions, further enhancing your career prospects and impact in the public health arena.