Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

The Graduate Certificate in Public Health is a short postgraduate program that builds foundational knowledge and practical skills in public health. The course typically comprises a sequence of core units covering the principles and practice of public health, epidemiology and biostatistics, health promotion and determinants of health, and research methods relevant to population health. Teaching emphasises evidence-based approaches, population-level thinking and the social determinants of health.

• Foundations of Public Health – concepts, history and the role of public health in contemporary health systems.
• Epidemiology and Biostatistics – basic study design, measures of disease frequency and effect, and introductory data interpretation.
• Health Promotion and Disease Prevention – strategies for planning, implementing and evaluating health promotion interventions across settings.
• Research Methods for Public Health – qualitative and quantitative approaches used in public health inquiry and program evaluation.

Units are often offered in flexible modes, including online and blended delivery, and the program can be completed part-time. Successful completion may provide credit toward a related master's degree for students wishing to continue to postgraduate study.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor degree in a health, science or social science discipline, or demonstrate equivalent professional experience in a health-related role. Applicants without a prior degree but with substantial relevant work experience may be considered on a case-by-case basis. Domestic and international applicants must also meet the University's English language proficiency requirements through recognised tests or prior study in English as required by the University.

Career prospects

Graduates use the Graduate Certificate in Public Health to enhance their practice or to gain entry-level public health skills. Typical roles and pathways include:

• Health promotion officer or coordinator in government health departments, non-government organisations or community health services
• Public health program support or officer roles in local and state health agencies
• Policy support, program evaluation or planning roles within health services and NGOs
• Research assistant roles in public health research teams or academic settings
• A pathway into higher-level study such as a Master of Public Health for those seeking expanded leadership or specialist roles

Why study at Australian Catholic University

Australian Catholic University offers public health education with a strong emphasis on ethical practice, social justice and community engagement. Students benefit from interprofessional teaching across health disciplines and opportunities to connect theory with practice through applied projects and industry partnerships. Flexible delivery modes and a supportive learning environment make the program suitable for working professionals and those seeking to upskill quickly in population health.