Master of Public Health and Master of Health Administration (Applied research)

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

La Trobe University

Program Overview

The Master of Public Health and Master of Health Administration (Applied research) at La Trobe University is a 2.5-year full-time postgraduate double-degree program combining public health, health administration and applied research.

Curriculum Structure:

Year 1: Covers core public health subjects including Principles of Public Health, Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Health Systems, Public Health Responses, Health Policy, Health Promotion and Health Care Quality.

Year 2: Covers health administration and management, including Management and Leadership in Health, Systems Thinking and Leadership, Social and Cultural Perspectives in Public Health, Strategy and Operations Management and Financial Management in Health Services.

Year 3: The final 0.5-year component completes the Applied Research specialisation and remaining elective requirements, including supervised research and project work in a public health area.

Focus Areas: Public Health, Applied Research, Health Administration, Epidemiology, Health Policy and Management, Health Promotion, Health Systems and Health Leadership.

Learning Outcomes: Graduates will be able to analyse complex public health challenges, design and evaluate health initiatives, apply research methods, assess health system performance and develop evidence-based strategies.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): The Master of Health Administration is accredited by the Australasian College of Health Service Management (ACHSM).

Reputation (Employability): The program develops public health, research and health administration skills for roles across government, hospitals, research bodies, public health agencies and community organisations.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At La Trobe University, the Master of Public Health and Master of Health Administration (Applied Research) programs are designed to provide students with hands-on experience that is essential for a successful career in health. Through a combination of practical projects, internships, and access to state-of-the-art facilities, students can develop the skills and knowledge needed to make a real impact in the public health sector.

The university emphasizes experiential learning, ensuring that you not only learn theoretical concepts but also apply them in real-world settings. Here are some of the key opportunities and resources available to you:

- Internships and Work Placements: Gain valuable experience through partnerships with local health organizations, allowing you to apply your learning in a professional environment.
- Group Projects: Collaborate with fellow students on projects that simulate real public health challenges, fostering teamwork and problem-solving skills.
- Research Facilities: Access dedicated laboratories and research centers equipped with the latest technology to support your applied research projects.
- Digital Tools: Utilize software such as SPSS and NVivo for data analysis and qualitative research, enhancing your analytical skills.
- Field Trips: Participate in excursions to health organizations and community health initiatives, providing insights into the practical applications of your studies.
- Libraries and Resources: Benefit from extensive library resources, including access to health databases and journals, to support your research and learning.
- Health Institutes: Engage with La Trobe’s health institutes, which focus on various aspects of public health and health administration, providing networking opportunities and expert insights.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating with a Master of Public Health or a Master of Health Administration (Applied Research) from La Trobe University opens up a world of opportunities in the health sector. Graduates are well-prepared for impactful roles such as Public Health Manager, Health Policy Analyst, and Healthcare Administrator. These programs equip you with the skills and knowledge to drive change and improve health outcomes in communities:

- 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 positions in public health and health administration can range from AUD 70,000 to AUD 100,000, depending on the role and experience.
- University–Industry Partnerships: La Trobe has strong connections with health organizations, government agencies, and non-profits, providing students with valuable internship opportunities and real-world experience.
- Long-term Accreditation Value: Both programs are accredited by relevant professional bodies, ensuring that your qualifications are recognized and respected in the industry.
- Graduation Outcomes: Graduates from these programs have gone on to work in various sectors, including government, non-profit organizations, and private healthcare, making significant contributions to public health initiatives.

Further Academic Progression: After completing your Master’s degree, you may choose to pursue a PhD in Public Health or Health Administration, allowing you to delve deeper into research and contribute to academic knowledge in the field. This path can lead to opportunities in academia, advanced research positions, or specialized roles in health policy development.