Massey University

What you'll study

The Master of Public Health combines core public health disciplines with applied research and elective specialisation. Core topics typically include epidemiology, biostatistics, health promotion and behaviour change, health systems and policy, and research methods. Many students also study indigenous and kaupapa Māori approaches to health, ethics in public health practice, and environmental or global health depending on elective choices.

• Epidemiology and surveillance – principles of disease occurrence, study designs and interpretation of population health data.
• Biostatistics – statistical methods for analysing health data and critical appraisal of quantitative research.
• Health promotion and behaviour change – planning, implementation and evaluation of interventions and community-based programmes.
• Health systems and policy – organisation, funding and governance of health services and the policy cycle.
• Research design and methods – qualitative and quantitative approaches, data collection, analysis and scientific communication.
• Mātauranga Māori and public health – integration of Te Ao Māori perspectives into health research and practice.
• Applied project or thesis – a supervised research project or practicum that allows students to apply skills to a real-world public health problem.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally required to hold a recognised bachelors degree with an appropriate level of academic achievement, typically in health, social science or a related discipline. Applicants without a health background but with substantial relevant workplace experience may be considered. Where English is not the first language, applicants must meet Massey Universitys English language proficiency requirements. Specific paper prerequisites in statistics or introductory public health may be requested for some pathways.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Master of Public Health are prepared for a wide range of roles in the public, non-government and private sectors. Typical career pathways include:

• Public health analyst or epidemiologist in government health agencies and local health organisations
• Health policy adviser or planner for ministries, regional health services or NGOs
• Health promotion practitioner or community health coordinator
• Researcher or research coordinator in academic institutions or research institutes
• Programme manager for public health interventions, primary care organisations, iwi/Māori health providers or international health agencies

Why study at Massey University

Massey University offers a multidisciplinary public health programme with strong links to New Zealand health agencies, community organisations and research centres. The curriculum emphasises applied skills, critical appraisal and culturally responsive practice, including mātauranga Māori perspectives. Flexible delivery options, including distance and blended learning, support working professionals. Students benefit from experienced academic supervisors, practical project opportunities and networks across the countrys public and community health sectors.