Master of Health Leadership and Management (Extension) / Master of Public Health

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

University of New South Wales

Program Overview

The Master of Health Leadership and Management (Extension) / Master of Public Health at UNSW is a 2-year full-time postgraduate double degree combining public health, health management and research. It develops advanced knowledge in population health and health services management, with an extended research component focused on contemporary health management issues.

Curriculum Structure:

Year 1: Covers Health Promotion and Social Perspectives of Health, Foundations in Public Health and Health Care Systems, Foundations of Epidemiology, Foundations of Biostatistics, Strategy, Policy and Change, Healthcare Economics and Financial Management, Health Leadership and Workforce Management, and Clinical Governance and Risk Management.

Year 2: Completes prescribed electives and additional research-focused study, including a research project or research methodology course. Students can also pursue public health specialisations such as Aboriginal Health & Wellbeing, Epidemiology, Health Economic Evaluation or Public Security.

Focus Areas: Public Health, Health Leadership, Health Management, Epidemiology, Biostatistics, Health Promotion, Health Policy, Health Services Management, Healthcare Economics, Governance, Research and Health Program Evaluation.

Learning Outcomes: Graduates will develop advanced skills to analyse population health issues, apply epidemiological and biostatistical methods, lead health services, evaluate health programs and policies, conduct health management research and apply evidence-based approaches to professional practice.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): The Master of Health Leadership and Management component is accredited by the Australasian College of Health Service Management (ACHSM) and provides core competencies provisionally recognised for Royal Australasian College of Medical Administrators (RACMA) Fellowship.

Reputation (Employability): The program combines public health, health management and research training with opportunities for practical industry experience, preparing graduates for roles across government, health services, community organisations, research institutions, NGOs and international health organisations.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of New South Wales (UNSW), students in the Master of Health Leadership and Management (Extension) and Master of Public Health programs are immersed in a rich learning environment that emphasizes practical skills and real-world applications. The university is committed to providing students with hands-on experiences that prepare them for leadership roles in health and public health sectors. With access to state-of-the-art facilities, innovative digital tools, and collaborative projects, students can expect to engage deeply with the material and gain valuable insights into the complexities of health management and public health.

Here are some key experiential learning opportunities available in these programs:

- Group Projects: Collaborate with peers on real-world health challenges, allowing you to apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings.
- Internships: Gain invaluable experience through placements in health organizations, providing a direct link between your studies and the professional world.
- Digital Tools: Utilize advanced software such as SPSS and NVivo for data analysis and research, enhancing your analytical skills.
- Field Trips: Participate in excursions to health facilities and organizations, offering firsthand insights into public health practices and management strategies.
- Research Laboratories: Access dedicated research labs equipped with the latest technology to support your projects and studies.
- Libraries and Resources: Benefit from extensive library resources, including access to health databases and journals, ensuring you have the information you need for your studies.
- Institutes and Centers: Engage with specialized institutes at UNSW, such as the UNSW Centre for Big Data Research in Health, which focuses on innovative research in health data analytics.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The Master of Health Leadership and Management (Extension) / Master of Public Health at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) equips graduates with the skills and knowledge to excel in various health-related roles. Graduates can pursue careers as Health Policy Advisors, Public Health Managers, or Health Program Coordinators, among others. These roles are critical in shaping health policies and improving community health outcomes:

- University Services: UNSW offers dedicated career services, including resume workshops, interview preparation, and networking events with industry professionals, ensuring you are well-prepared for the job market.
- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: According to recent data, graduates from UNSW's health programs have a high employment rate, with many securing positions shortly after graduation. The average salary for roles in public health management can range from AUD 80,000 to AUD 120,000, depending on experience and specific job functions.
- University–Industry Partnerships: UNSW has established strong partnerships with leading health organizations, including the NSW Health Department and various NGOs, providing students with valuable internship opportunities and real-world experience.
- Long-term Accreditation Value: The program is accredited by relevant professional bodies, ensuring that your qualifications are recognized and respected in the industry, which enhances your employability.
- Graduation Outcomes: Graduates from this program are well-prepared to take on leadership roles in health organizations, with many advancing to senior management positions within a few years of completing their studies.

Further Academic Progression: After completing the Master of Health Leadership and Management (Extension) / Master of Public Health, you may choose to further your studies by pursuing a PhD in Public Health or Health Management. This advanced research degree can open doors to academic positions, research roles, or high-level consultancy opportunities, allowing you to contribute to the field at a deeper level. Additionally, you could explore specialized certifications or short courses to enhance your expertise in specific areas of public health or health leadership.