Curtin University

What you'll study

The Master of Public Health combines core public health disciplines with applied learning. You will study foundations such as epidemiology, biostatistics and research methods, and progress to applied topics including health promotion, health systems and policy, environmental and occupational health, and Indigenous and global health.

• Core modules: Epidemiology and disease surveillance; Biostatistics for public health; Public health research methods; Health policy and systems; Health promotion and behaviour change.
• Applied topics and electives: Environmental and occupational health; Health economics and financing; Communicable disease control; Indigenous health; Global health and development; Health informatics and data analysis.
• Practical components: A professional practicum or industry placement (or an alternative capstone research project) provides hands-on experience in public health practice or policy settings.
• Study modes and structure: The program is offered with flexible study options, typically completed through a mix of coursework and a capstone project or practicum. Students can choose full-time or part-time study pathways to suit working professionals.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally required to hold a recognised bachelor degree (or equivalent) in health, medical, biomedical, life sciences or a related field. Candidates with degrees in other disciplines but with relevant professional experience in health or community services may also be considered.

• Academic requirement: An undergraduate degree from a recognised institution. Honours or relevant professional experience strengthens an application for some pathways.
• English language: International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through a recognised test or an approved equivalent qualification.
• Additional requirements: Some applicants may be asked to provide a statement of purpose, curriculum vitae and references. Selection for practicum placements can depend on background checks and any jurisdictional registration or immunisation requirements relevant to placement providers.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Master of Public Health pursue a broad range of careers across government, non-government and private sectors. The degree prepares professionals to work at the intersection of health services, policy and population wellbeing.

• Public health officer or program manager in local, state or federal health departments
• Health promotion practitioner and community development officer
• Policy analyst or adviser in health policy, planning and evaluation
• Epidemiology or surveillance officer and health data analyst (with further specialist training for advanced epidemiology roles)
• Project officer or manager in NGOs, international development agencies and community health organisations
• Research assistant or postgraduate researcher, with pathways to doctoral study

Why study at Curtin University

Curtin offers a practice-focused public health program with strong connections to health services and community organisations, particularly in Western Australia and the broader Asia–Pacific region. The course emphasises applied learning through practicum placements and industry-relevant projects, taught by academics and practitioners active in public health research and policy.

• Industry links: Partnerships with public health agencies, hospitals and NGOs facilitate placements and project opportunities that build workplace skills.
• Research and expertise: Students benefit from Curtin's public health and population health research strengths, which inform teaching and provide opportunities for research-led projects.
• Flexible learning: The program is delivered with flexible study modes to accommodate working professionals, including online and on-campus options.
• Practical career support: Curtin’s careers and industry engagement services help students find placements, internships and employment pathways in the public health sector.