Master of Public Health (1.5 years)

At the completion of the course it is expected that graduates will be able to:
Demonstrate advanced knowledge and skills:

• in critical analysis of evidence, complex theories, problems, and concepts regarding social, economic, environmental, and political determinants of health
• in developing, planning, and evaluating public health approaches to health problems
• in critiquing and applying contemporary public health approaches in work-related environments and practice
• of research principles, methodologies, and methods applicable to public health theory, policy and practice
• in creativity and innovation in transferring knowledge to practice
• in effective communication in the workplace and university context

Apply an advanced level of knowledge and skills:

• to recognise their own strengths, limitations, and learning style
• in showing initiative and creativity in practice
• to take responsibility, and to advocate for and empower others
• in critical analysis of evidence and theories regarding determinants of health, planning and evaluating public health approaches, work-related environments; and undertaking public health research activities

Explore and redefine public health practice to promote health in light of contemporary knowledge.

The courses are founded on a commitment to the advancement of quality and integrity in multidisciplinary practice, and principles of equity, inclusiveness, accountability and community participation.

The courses create opportunities for health professionals to examine workplace issues and to formulate new ways of addressing them and putting them into practice. The teaching and learning focuses primarily on helping health professionals change their practice in light of new insights. Topic assignments may be related to workplace issues and problems.

It is 1.5 years in length on a full-time basis and can also be undertaken part-time.

Recommended study pattern

Students complete one of two pathways in the course.

The coursework pathway requires students to complete seven core (compulsory) topics and up to four option topics chosen from a range of option topics available. These topics aim to provide students with the opportunity to gain an advanced level of knowledge and skills to critical analyse evidence and theories regarding determinants of health, planning and evaluating public health approaches, work-related environments.

The coursework and research pathway requires students to complete eight to nine core (compulsory) topics and one option topic which aim to provide students with the knowledge and skills to critical analyse evidence and theories regarding determinants of health, planning and evaluating public health approaches, work-related environments whilst undertaking public health research activities such as a dissertation.

Award requirements

To complete the requirements for the Master of Public Health (1.5 years) students must successfully complete one of two pathways in the course.

The coursework pathway requires students to complete seven core (compulsory) topics and up to four option topics chosen from a range of option topics available. These topics aim to provide students with the opportunity to gain an advanced level of knowledge and skills to critical analyse evidence and theories regarding determinants of health, planning and evaluating public health approaches, work-related environments.

The coursework and research pathway requires students to complete eight to nine core (compulsory) topics and one option topic which aim to provide students with the knowledge and skills to critical analyse evidence and theories regarding determinants of health, planning and evaluating public health approaches, work-related environments whilst undertaking public health research activities such as a dissertation.

Open Universities Australia is a not-for-profit organisation. You will not pay any fees for using our services.

Indicative total fee $39,518

The amount shown here is indicative for an Australian citizen studying full-time, which is typically 8 subjects per year.

Fees may vary depending on:

• the subjects you choose
• credit from previous work experience
• your eligibility for government funding loans or subsidies such as HECS-HELP or a Commonwealth supported place.

To learn more, go to Fees or contact a student advisor.

Flinders University is a globally-focused, locally-engaged institution with a reputation for excellence in teaching, learning and research. They offer world‐class education that develops the critical and creative thinking skills to support a student’s success. Their courses offered through Open Universities Australia span business, education and law. They are designed with flexibility in mind, while delivering the advanced qualifications to take careers to the next step.

Learn more about Flinders University.

Explore Flinders courses.

QS World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:

21

Times Higher Education World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:

20

Applicants must normally hold an approved bachelor degree or equivalent qualification in a health-related field; or hold an approved bachelor degree or equivalent qualification and no less than two-years work experience in a public health related field.

Flinders University conducts an English Language proficiency check on applications submitted for consideration to its courses. 
This will be met in a number of ways, including if the applicants: 

• first language is English (i.e. citizenship is held for a country where English is the official language)
• completed secondary schooling in Australia
• completed prior study in English (e.g. a Certificate IV or higher from a recognised Australian training institution)
• completed one semester of full-time equivalent tertiary study at a higher education institution 
• completed a recognised Foundation Studies or bridging program 
• performance in the Special Tertiary Admissions Test  (STAT) meets the University's admissions requirements 
• registered with an Australian professional registration body relevant to the applicant's proposed course (e.g. applicant holds current registration as a Registered Nurse, General Practitioner, Teacher, Physiotherapist, Occupational Therapist, Social Worker and such in Australia)
• achieved a score within an international English language proficiency test such as IELTS, PTE, TOEFL or Cambridge CAE that meets the minimum proficiency for the university
• completed an approved English language course from a registered English Language Intensive Course for Overseas Students (ELICOS) Provider

In some instances, applicants may be asked to provide evidence they meet the requirements if the information required is not available in their application. 

Credit transfer may be granted, on application, for prior study completed in a relevant honours, graduate certificate, graduate diploma or master degree; accredited professional development; or relevant work experience.

Applications for credit transfer are assessed on a case by case basis according to Flinders University policies. Students must be made an offer for entry into a degree before lodging their completed credit transfer application, along with all necessary documentation for formal assessment. More information is available at www.flinders.edu.au/credit