Master of Public Health (Health Economics)

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

Monash University

Program Overview

The Master of Public Health (Health Economics) at Monash University develops advanced knowledge and skills in public health, health economics, epidemiology, biostatistics and research methods. It prepares students to evaluate health care resources, financial management and value for money to support evidence-based decision-making in health systems.

Curriculum Structure:

Year 1: Covers foundational public health and health economics subjects including Introductory Epidemiology, Introductory Biostatistics, Research Methods, Public Health Fundamentals, Introductory Health Economics and Financial Management in Health Care.

Year 2: Builds specialised knowledge through Determining Value for Money in Health Care, Professional Practice Development, approved electives and further study in public health evaluation or systematic reviews and meta-analysis.

Focus Areas: Health Economics, Public Health, Economic Evaluation, Financial Management, Health Care Value, Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Research Methods.

Learning Outcomes: Graduates develop skills to analyse public health and economic issues, evaluate health care costs and outcomes, assess value for money, apply research methods and support evidence-based decisions in health care.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): The program fulfils the core discipline requirements of a Master of Public Health for the Australasian Faculty of Public Health Medicine, Royal Australasian College of Physicians.

Reputation (Employability): The program develops analytical, economic, research and decision-making skills for roles across government, health services, health administration and management, public health research and health policy.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Monash University, the Master of Public Health (Health Economics) program is designed to provide students with a rich blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills. This program emphasizes experiential learning, ensuring that you not only understand health economics concepts but also apply them in real-world settings. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources that enhance their learning experience, including advanced software tools, collaborative projects, and opportunities for internships.

Here’s how you can expect to engage in experiential learning throughout your studies:

- Group Projects: Collaborate with peers on real-world health economics challenges, allowing you to apply your knowledge in a team setting and develop essential communication and teamwork skills.
- Internships: Gain hands-on experience through internships with health organizations, government agencies, and NGOs, providing you with invaluable insights into the public health sector.
- Digital Tools: Utilize industry-standard software such as STATA and R for data analysis, equipping you with the technical skills needed for health economics research and evaluation.
- Field Trips: Participate in field trips to health facilities and organizations, giving you a firsthand look at how health economics principles are applied in practice.
- Research Laboratories: Access dedicated research labs where you can engage in projects that contribute to the field of health economics, working alongside experienced faculty and researchers.
- Libraries and Resources: Benefit from Monash’s extensive library system, which offers a wealth of resources, including access to specialized databases and journals relevant to public health and economics.
- Institute Collaborations: Work with Monash’s various research institutes focused on health and social issues, providing you with opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research and policy development.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating with a Master of Public Health (Health Economics) from Monash University opens up a world of opportunities in the health sector. Graduates are well-prepared for roles such as Health Economist, Policy Analyst, and Public Health Consultant, where they can make a significant impact on health systems and policies. The skills and knowledge gained in this program position you for a rewarding career dedicated to improving health outcomes.

Here’s what you can expect in terms of progression and future opportunities:

- University Services: Monash offers dedicated career services, including personalized career coaching, resume workshops, and networking events with industry professionals to help you secure your ideal job.
- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: Graduates from the Master of Public Health program have a high employment rate, with many securing positions shortly after graduation. The average salary for health economists in Australia can range from AUD 80,000 to AUD 120,000, depending on experience and location.
- University–Industry Partnerships: Monash has strong partnerships with leading health organizations and government agencies, providing students with valuable internship opportunities and real-world experience that enhances employability.
- Long-term Accreditation Value: The program is accredited by relevant professional bodies, ensuring that your qualification is recognized and respected in the industry, which can lead to better job prospects and career advancement.
- Graduation Outcomes: Alumni of the program have gone on to work in various sectors, including government, non-profit organizations, and private health firms, demonstrating the versatility and demand for this qualification.

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