Master of Public Health Extension (Big Data and Decision Science)

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

University of Wollongong

Program Overview

The Master of Public Health Extension (Big Data and Decision Science) at the University of Wollongong is a 2-year full-time postgraduate program designed to provide advanced public health knowledge with a specialised focus on data science and decision-making. It combines public health foundations with data-driven approaches to analyse and communicate population health issues.

Curriculum Structure:

Year 1: Covers four foundational public health subjects: Foundations in Public Health, Epidemiology and Biostatistics in Public Health, Public Health Methods, and Health Economics, Policy and Promotion, followed by additional public health study and electives.

Year 2: Builds advanced knowledge through the Big Data and Decision Science specialisation, focusing on applying data science to public health, reproducible data practices and communicating health issues through data visualisation.

Focus Areas: Public Health, Big Data, Decision Science, Data Science, Epidemiology, Biostatistics, Public Health Methods, Health Economics, Health Policy, Data Visualisation and Population Health.

Learning Outcomes: Graduates will develop advanced skills to analyse public health issues, apply epidemiological and data science methods, use reproducible data practices, interpret population health data and communicate evidence through effective data visualisations.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): UOW is seeking accreditation with the Agency for Public Health Education Accreditation (APHEA).

Reputation (Employability): The program has a strong focus on Work Integrated Learning, industry connections and practical placements, developing data-driven public health skills relevant to health organisations, government, research and consultancy.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Wollongong, the Master of Public Health Extension (Big Data and Decision Science) program is designed to provide students with hands-on experience that is essential for a successful career in public health. Through a combination of practical projects, access to state-of-the-art facilities, and collaboration with industry professionals, students will develop the skills needed to analyze data and make informed decisions that can impact public health outcomes.

The program emphasizes experiential learning through various opportunities, including:

- Access to Advanced Software: Students will work with industry-standard software such as R, Python, and Tableau for data analysis and visualization, equipping them with the technical skills needed in the field.

- Group Projects: Collaborative projects allow students to tackle real-world public health issues, fostering teamwork and problem-solving skills that are crucial in professional settings.

- Internships: The program offers opportunities for internships with public health organizations, providing students with valuable experience and networking opportunities in the field.

- Field Trips: Students may participate in field trips to health organizations and research institutes, gaining insights into the practical applications of their studies.

- Research Laboratories: Access to dedicated research labs enables students to engage in hands-on research, enhancing their understanding of public health challenges and solutions.

- Libraries and Resources: The university's extensive library system provides access to a wealth of academic resources, journals, and databases that support research and learning.

- Collaboration with Institutes: Students have the chance to collaborate with various health institutes and organizations, allowing them to apply their knowledge in real-world contexts.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The Master of Public Health Extension (Big Data and Decision Science) at the University of Wollongong equips graduates with the skills to analyze complex health data and make informed decisions that can significantly impact public health outcomes. Graduates can expect to pursue rewarding careers in various sectors, including government agencies, healthcare organizations, and research institutions. Typical job roles include:

- Public Health Data Analyst
- Health Informatics Specialist
- Epidemiologist
- Policy Advisor

Here’s how the University of Wollongong supports your journey towards a successful career in public health:

- Career Development Services: The university offers tailored career advice, resume workshops, and interview preparation to help you stand out in the job market.
- Employment Statistics: UOW boasts a high graduate employment rate, with many students securing jobs within six months of graduation. The average salary for public health professionals in Australia ranges from AUD 70,000 to AUD 100,000, depending on experience and role.
- University–Industry Partnerships: UOW collaborates with leading organizations such as NSW Health and various NGOs, providing students with valuable networking opportunities and real-world experience through internships and projects.
- Long-term Accreditation Value: The program is recognized by relevant professional bodies, ensuring that your qualification remains respected and relevant in the evolving public health landscape.
- Graduation Outcomes: Graduates of this program are well-prepared to tackle pressing public health challenges, making them highly sought after in the job market.

Further Academic Progression: After completing the Master of Public Health Extension, you may choose to further your studies by pursuing a PhD in Public Health or a related field. This advanced research degree can open doors to academic positions, high-level consultancy roles, or leadership positions in public health organizations, allowing you to contribute to innovative solutions in health policy and practice.