Master of Public Health

• Build expertise in public health through core foundational study, methods-based training, and a wide range of electives in special interest areas
• Develop practical, real-world skills through work-based placements, research projects, and industry engagement with leading organisations such as The Royal Melbourne Hospital and the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity
• Learn from leading public health academics who are recognised experts and active contributors in their fields

The Master of Public Health provides students with the skills and knowledge required for a career in public health practice. The course introduces the core foundations of public health theory and practice, while also offering opportunities to explore a range of public health methods, approaches, and special interest areas through our suite of elective subjects. The course is delivered by academic staff with extensive experience and depth of knowledge, who are leaders in their chosen fields of public health.

Study flexibly in a mixed-mode program, choosing subjects delivered on-campus, online, or both to suit your lifestyle. Learn on the Parkville campus, at the heart of Melbourne’s biomedical precinct and close to key public health industry partners, or enjoy the convenience of online study designed to fit around work and other commitments.

Source for Public Health rankings: ‘2024 Global Shanghai Rankings for Academic subjects’

Who is the Master of Public Health (MPH) for?

The Master of Public Health is suitable for those who have studied in any discipline, whether you’re aspiring to enter a career in public health or looking to upskill or transition into the field of public health.

Students can tailor their MPH journey by choosing from more than 60 electives spanning key public health methods and diverse special interest areas, including

• Climate, Environment and Health
• Epidemiology and Biostatistics
• Evaluation and Implementation Science
• Gerontology
• Global Health
• Health Economics and Economic Evaluation
• Health Policy, Systems and Practice
• Health, Gender and Society
• Indigenous Health
• Infectious Disease Epidemiology
• Oral Public Health
• Sexual Health

Courses related to the Master of Public Health (MPH)

The University of Melbourne also offers the following courses:

• Graduate Certificate in Public Health
• Graduate Certificate in Sexual Health
• Graduate Certificate in Climate Change and Health
• Graduate Certificate in Health Economics and Economic Evaluation
• Graduate Certificate in Infectious Disease Epidemiology
• Master of Biostatistics

For working professionals

If you’re already working in public health, you may be interested in the accelerated, wholly online Master of Public Health (Online). This course runs part-time over six online terms per year, and you’ll study one subject at a time.

Want to explore other courses in the area of public health?

Explore more

Past information session

Master of Public Health Information Session

When:  Wednesday, 22 April 2026, 6:00PM - 7:00PM AEST

In this session, you’ll get insights from our Course Director, Associate Professor Kayley Lyons, and our MPH students and alumni on:

• Course structure and study options
• Career pathways in government, NGOs, hospitals, research, community health and many more
• The student experience, and tips on balancing study, work, and life

Watch recording