Graduate Coursework Programs

Master of Public Health (MPH)

The Melbourne MPH teaches students to recognize and seek to understand the social determinants of health and disease, the molecular basis of disease in populations, and the influence of physical, social and cultural environments. Prime emphasis is placed on the prevention of disease and injury and the promotion of health and wellbeing. The program maintains a strong focus on the systems and services that society puts in place to effect these aims, their efficiency and cost-effectiveness, and their impact on equity and social justice. The Melbourne MPH orients students towards future careers as leaders in public health and health care. It is ideal for graduates with a record of academic achievement who gain satisfaction knowing that they are working to improve the lives of others and who aspire to leadership roles in public health. The program will appeal to those who want to move into the field of public health, as well as those who already work within a public health or health related field and are preparing for advancement in their organisation or field, or seeking to broaden their knowledge and skill set.

Most of our students specialise in one or more of the following key areas:

  • Epidemiology & Biostatistics
  • Gender and Women’s Health
  • Global Health
  • Health Economics & Economic Evaluation
  • Health Program Evaluation
  • Health Social Sciences
  • Indigenous Health 
  • Sexual Health

In addition students consolidate their specialist training by undertaking a capstone experience which synthesizes knowledge integration allowing students to apply knowledge gained in the course to real world scenarios resulting in effective outcomes. Options include:

  • A Research Project with an expert in their field, or
  • A Professional Practice placement with a recognised agency, institution or community organisation concerned with health, or
  • Further elective subjects
Master of Public Health
Suitable For: If you are a health care professional looking to broaden your understanding then this is the program for you. It is ideal for doctors, nurses and other allied health professionals and students with a non-health related degree but work experience in a health related field are welcome.
The program will allow you to apply your knowledge in practical and conceptual ways, and learn how to apply your skills to the health arena while exposing you to new networks of health care professionals.

It is typically suitable for those seeking a career in public health, traditionally from clinical backgrounds, but increasingly from other health backgrounds, laboratory or basic sciences, or the social sciences.
Structure

200 Point Program:  SIX core subjects and TEN elective subjects or EIGHT elective subjects and either a Research Project or Professional Practice unit of 25 points.

175 Point Program:  SIX core subjects and EIGHT elective subjects or SIX elective subjects and either a Research Project or Professional Practice unit of 25 points.

150  Point Program:  FIVE core subjects and SEVEN elective subjects or FIVE elective subjects and either a Research Project or Professional Practice unit of 25 points.

Entry Requirements:

The Selection Committee will evaluate the applicant’s ability to pursue the course successfully using the following criteria:

  • an undergraduate degree in any discipline, or equivalent;
     OR
  • at least 200 points of tertiary study in any discipline and at least five years of documented relevant health-related work experience.

The Selection Committee may conduct interviews and tests and call for referee reports and employer references to elucidate any of the matters referred to above.

Note. Successful applicants with an undergraduate degree may be granted 25 points of advanced standing for a minimum of two years of documented health related work experience, or 50 points of advanced standing for a minimum of two years of documented public health related work experience.
Research Project or Professional Practice Unit:
 Students may apply to undertake either a 25 point supervised Research Project in their chosen field of specialisation or a 25 point supervised Professional Practice unit. Students have the option of applying to enrol in a year-long research project or a semester-long research project.

Students who wish to enter the program mid-year should be aware that options with regard to undertaking a research project may be limited.

Students should be aware that they must complete a 25 point research project in order for the MPH to provide an entry pathway to the MPhil or PhD program.

Note: Research project prerequisites will be revised to reflect the new core curriculum, however this will not be done until 2012; this will allow continuing students to be able to enrol in a research project as per the current arrangements. Note that very few students start the research project in their first year.
Specialisation Opportunities:
 Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Health Economics &Economic Evaluation, Health Program Evaluation, Health Social Sciences, Indigenous Health, Gender & Women's Health,Global Health, Primary Care, Sexual Health.
Study Mode: Predominently classroom, some electives may be offered in distance or block mode.
Length/Mode: 1.5-2 years full time  / 3-4 years part time (dependant upon prior qualifications and experience)
Fee Payment:

Local students:  Full Fee or may be eligible to apply for a limited number of CSP places.
International students: Full Fee.
See Fees for more information.
Mid-Year Entry: Implications for Mid Year Entry
Articulation:
 n/a
Course Coordinator:

Dr Melissa Russell
Phone:  03 8344 0736
Email:  melissar@unimelb.edu.au
How to Apply: Local Applicant  - International Applicant
For detailed course information, visit the University's On-Line Course and Subject Handbook.
Make an Enquiry

For more information, please contact the Academic Programs Office.