Master of Public Health and Master of Health Administration (Health strategy and policy)

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

La Trobe University

Program Overview

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

Curriculum Structure:

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

Year 2: Covers health administration and management subjects including Financial Management in Health Services, Strategy and Operations Management, and Systems Thinking and Leadership, alongside the Health Strategy and Policy specialisation.

Year 3: The remaining 0.5-year component completes the required health administration coursework, specialisation subjects and electives.

Focus Areas: Public Health, Health Administration, Health Strategy and Policy, Health Systems, Health Policy, Epidemiology, Health Management and Leadership.

Learning Outcomes: Graduates will be able to analyse public health challenges, evaluate health systems and services, develop evidence-based policies and apply management and leadership skills in health settings.

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, policy and health administration skills for roles across government, hospitals, health services and community organisations.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At La Trobe University, the Master of Public Health and Master of Health Administration (Health Strategy and Policy) 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 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 peers on projects that simulate real-world health challenges, fostering teamwork and problem-solving skills.
- Digital Tools and Software: Utilize industry-standard software such as SPSS for data analysis and health informatics tools to enhance your research capabilities.
- Field Trips: Participate in excursions to health facilities and organizations, providing insights into the practical workings of the health system.
- Research Laboratories: Access dedicated research labs equipped for public health research, enabling you to engage in hands-on research projects.
- Libraries and Learning Resources: Benefit from extensive library resources, including access to health databases and journals that support your studies.
- Health Research Institutes: Collaborate with La Trobe’s health research institutes, which focus on various aspects of public health and health administration.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Pursuing a Master of Public Health (MPH) or a Master of Health Administration (MHA) with a focus on Health Strategy and Policy at La Trobe University opens up a world of opportunities in the health sector. Graduates from these programs are well-equipped to take on vital roles that shape health policies and improve community health outcomes. Typical job roles include:

- Public Health Manager
- Health Policy Analyst
- Health Services Administrator
- Epidemiologist

Here’s how La Trobe University supports your journey towards a successful career in health:

- Career Services: La Trobe offers dedicated career support, including resume workshops, interview preparation, and networking events with industry professionals.
- Employment Statistics: The university boasts a high employment rate for graduates, with many securing roles within six months of graduation. Average salaries for graduates in these fields 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 and job placement opportunities.
- Accreditation: The programs are accredited by relevant professional bodies, ensuring that your qualifications are recognized and valued in the industry.
- Graduation Outcomes: Alumni from these programs have gone on to make significant contributions in public health and health administration, often taking leadership roles in their organizations.

Further Academic Progression: After completing your Master’s degree, you may choose to further your studies by pursuing a PhD in Public Health or Health Administration. This path can lead to advanced research opportunities, teaching positions at universities, or high-level consultancy roles in health policy and management. Additionally, you could explore specialized certifications or professional development courses to enhance your expertise in specific areas of health strategy and policy.