Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

This master's combines core public health methods with specialised study in global health, health policy and advocacy. You will develop skills in epidemiology and biostatistics, health systems and policy analysis, program planning and monitoring, and qualitative and quantitative research methods. Core topics typically include:

• Epidemiology and Biostatistics – principles of disease surveillance, study design and basic data analysis for public health decision‑making.
• Global Health Concepts – determinants of health, global burden of disease, health equity and the role of multilateral agencies.
• Health Policy and Systems – comparative health systems, financing, governance and policy processes at national and international levels.
• Advocacy, Communication and Leadership – strategies for rights‑based advocacy, campaign design, stakeholder engagement and leadership in low‑resource settings.
• Program Design, Monitoring & Evaluation – designing interventions, indicators, evaluation methods and learning cycles for global health programmes.
• Public Health Ethics and Human Rights – ethical frameworks, community engagement and cultural competence in global practice.
• Research Project or Capstone – an applied research project, policy analysis or practicum placement that demonstrates integration of technical and advocacy skills.

Learning is delivered through a mix of lectures, seminars, case studies, workshops and practical assignments. There may be opportunities for short placements or collaborative projects with non‑government organisations, health agencies and international partners.

Entry requirements

• A recognised bachelor’s degree in health, social science or a related discipline, or equivalent qualifications and professional experience. Applicants with substantial relevant work experience may be considered for admission even if their undergraduate specialism is different.
• Evidence of academic suitability, usually demonstrated through transcripts and a statement of purpose outlining public health experience and career goals.
• Some prior experience in health, development or community work is highly regarded, particularly for pathways into placements or practice components.
• Competent English language proficiency demonstrated by recognised tests or equivalent, where the applicant’s prior study was not in English.
• Applicants without the standard entry profile may be eligible for admission via a graduate certificate or other bridging programme offered by the university.

Career prospects

Graduates of this programme go on to roles across international and domestic settings where global health knowledge and advocacy skills are needed. Typical career paths include:

• Policy analyst or adviser in government health departments and multilateral agencies.
• Program manager or technical officer for non‑government organisations and international NGOs.
• Advocacy officer, communications specialist or campaign manager focused on health rights and social determinants.
• Monitoring and evaluation specialist for global health programmes.
• Research assistant or project officer within university research groups, think tanks and public health institutes.
• Clinical and allied health professionals seeking leadership roles in population health and international health projects.

The combination of methodological training and advocacy practice is designed to make graduates effective in policy influencing, programme design and evidence translation across a range of settings.

Why study at Australian Catholic University

ACU offers health and public health education with an emphasis on social justice, ethics and community engagement. The university has a strong presence in Australian capital cities and regional centres, enabling access to clinical, community and policy networks. The programme draws on ACU's health science teaching and research capabilities, and emphasizes applied learning through project work and partnership‑based activities.

Students benefit from small‑group teaching, access to interdisciplinary expertise across public health and allied health disciplines, and links with governmental and non‑governmental organisations for practical experience. The course is suited to those who want a values‑driven approach to global health that balances technical rigour with advocacy and leadership development.