University of Western Australia

What you'll study

This program combines theoretical and applied learning across Indigenous ways of knowing, public health, research methods and health systems. Core topics typically include Indigenous health frameworks and history, cultural safety and competency, epidemiology and population health, health promotion and prevention strategies, program design and evaluation, and qualitative and quantitative research methods tailored to community contexts.

Students can expect a mix of coursework and applied practice. Options commonly include a placement or community-engaged project, a research dissertation or a capstone project depending on the program stream chosen. Coursework emphasises community-led approaches, ethical engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, and translating evidence into practice.

• Indigenous health policy and governance
• Cultural safety, communication and leadership in health settings
• Public health and epidemiology for Indigenous populations
• Program planning, monitoring and evaluation
• Research methods with a focus on community-based participatory approaches
• Applied placement or research project working with communities or service providers

Study format and duration

The degree is offered with flexible study options to accommodate working professionals, including part-time and remote learning components alongside on-campus units. The program structure allows students to focus on coursework-led professional development or research-led study, depending on career goals.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline such as health sciences, social sciences, nursing, allied health or a related field. Applicants with substantial professional experience in health or community roles but without a bachelor’s degree may be considered through alternative entry pathways.

Additional expectations and conditions may include:

• Relevant professional or community experience in Indigenous health, primary health care, health promotion or related fields is highly regarded.
• Demonstrated commitment to working respectfully with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and awareness of cultural safety principles.
• English language proficiency meeting the university’s postgraduate requirements for international applicants.
• For some placements or practical components, clearances such as police checks, immunisation records and any jurisdictional health clearances may be required.

The University of Western Australia maintains specific admission criteria and offers dedicated support and pathways for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants; prospective students should consult the university’s admission pages for detailed guidance.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of roles across health services, government, research and community sectors. Typical career destinations include positions in Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations, primary health care services, state and federal health departments, non-government organisations focused on Indigenous wellbeing, and research institutes.

• Program manager or coordinator for Indigenous health services
• Policy advisor in health departments or peak bodies
• Public health practitioner focusing on prevention and health promotion
• Research officer or project lead in community-based or academic research
• Clinical leadership roles for health professionals working in Aboriginal health settings

The combination of research skills, cultural competency and practical experience prepares graduates to lead community-partnered initiatives, contribute to policy development and improve service delivery for Indigenous populations.

Why study at University of Western Australia

UWA is a research-led institution with established engagement in Indigenous health research and strong partnerships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and health organisations across Western Australia. Students benefit from multidisciplinary teaching drawn from public health, social sciences, nursing and Indigenous studies, and from supervisors and lecturers active in community-based research.

The university provides dedicated student support services, including Aboriginal student centres and cultural support, placement facilitation with local health services, and opportunities to work alongside experienced practitioners and researchers. Flexible study options and a focus on ethical, community-led practice make the program suited to both recent graduates and experienced professionals seeking to advance their impact in Indigenous health.