Public health

Public healthWhy study Public health?

Our undergraduate course enables students to develop a sound knowledge of the principles and practice of public health in contemporary societies, including how to effectively promote better health and prevent ill health. Develop practical skills to assist the community in health education and communication, health planning and management. Combine studies in public health with a degree in arts, business or international development.

Public Health at La Trobe

Career opportunities

Graduates are prepared for employment in the rapidly expanding field of health promotion and public health. You may expect to work in a community health centre, community-based rehabilitation centre, geriatric care agency and private health services.

Courses

Local students

Public health courses
Offer yearCourse titleCampus(es)DurationSemester starts
2013 Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Health Sciences Melbourne
4 years full-time or part-time equivalent Semester 1 (February)

Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Health Sciences continued…

Course description
This course allows students to create a program that best represents their interests and needs in arts and health sciences disciplines - providing many different career options. Some study combinations might include politics, society and public health, legal studies and health administration, human biosciences and archaeology, gender, sexuality and diversity studies and health promotion and/or public health.
Prerequisite
VCE Units 3 & 4: study score of at least 30 in English (ESL) or 25 in any other English, and at least 20 in one of Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics (any), Physics, or Physical Education.
Extra requirements
Non-Year 12 selection may be based on ATAR, VTAC Personal History online, GPA, STAT Multiple Choice, and/or an essay.

If you didnt get the ATAR there are other ways to get into this course.

Non Year 12 applicants must complete and submit a VTAC Personal History online if they wish other information to be considered during the selection process. This may include information such as work or community experience or reasons for applying.

For more information about VTAC Personal History online please visit our Extra Requirements page.
Selection
ATAR (2013)
Melbourne: 75.6

Middle band
Re-ranking is based on performance in English (any), Humanities (any), LOTE (any), Drama, Theatre Studies, Legal Studies and Psychology. Consideration is also given to Special Entry Access Scheme (SEAS) criteria.
Fee type
Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
Fee amount
Indicative (2010): CSP student contribution between $5,310 and $7,567 (per 120 credit points).
How to apply
VTAC or Late Direct Application.
Full course details
Course structures and subject information for the following cours(es):
Arts/Health Sciences Melbourne
2013 Bachelor of Health Sciences Bendigo
Melbourne
3 years full-time or part-time equivalent Semester 1 (March)

Bachelor of Health Sciences continued…

Course description
This highly flexible course aims to give students a broad understanding of the field of health sciences while pursuing areas of interest within the human biosciences, rehabilitation or public health domains. It can also provide provide a pathway into La Trobe's specialist health sciences courses.
Prerequisite
VCE Units 3 & 4: study score of at least 25 in English (any), or 30 in English (ESL), and at least 20 in one of Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics (any), Physical Education or Physics.
Extra requirements
Non-Year 12 selection may involve: ENTER/ATAR, VTAC Personal History online, GPA, STAT Multiple Choice.

Non-Year 12 applicants must complete and submit a VTAC Personal History online if they wish other information to be considered during the selection process. This may include information such as work experience or reasons for applying. Applicants may wish to provide other documentation in support of their application.

For more information about VTAC Personal History online please visit our Extra Requirements page.
Selection
ATARs (2013)
Melbourne: 63.4
Bendigo: 60.15

Middle band
Re-ranking is based on relevant employment or work experience. Consideration is also given to Special Entry Access Scheme (SEAS) criteria; and a regional bonus may apply.
Fee type
Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
How to apply
VTAC
Full course details
Course structures and subject information for the following cours(es):
Health SciencesMelbourne
Health SciencesBendigo
2013 Bachelor of Health Sciences/Bachelor of Business Melbourne
4 years full-time or part-time equivalent. Semester 1 (March)

Bachelor of Health Sciences/Bachelor of Business continued…

Course description
The healthcare sector has an increasing need for graduates with skills and knowledge in health sciences and business. This is due partly to Australia's traditionally strong private-sector involvement in healthcare service delivery, supply and financing, but also to new accountability requirements in the healthcare sector. Designed in response to current needs, this course offers a comprehensive foundation in business studies combined with the choice of a number of health specialisations.
Prerequisite
VCE Units 1 & 2: two units (any study combination) from general mathematics or mathematical methods (CAS). Units 3 & 4: a study score of at least 30 in English (ESL) or 25 in any other English, and at least 20 in one of Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics (any), Physical education or Physics.
Extra requirements
Non-Year 12 selection may be based on ATAR, VTAC Personal History online, GPA, STAT Multiple Choice.

Non-Year 12 applicants must complete and submit a VTAC Personal History online if they wish other information to be considered during the selection process. This may include information such as work experience or reasons for applying. Applicants may wish to provide other documentation in support of their application.

For more information about VTAC Personal History online please visit our Extra Requirements page.
Selection
ATAR (2013)
Melbourne: 65.25

Middle band
Re-ranking is based on relevant employment or work experience and criteria associated with the Special Entry Access Scheme (SEAS).
Fee type
Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
How to apply
VTAC
Professional recognition
Marketing graduates are eligible to join the Australian Marketing Institute or the Australian Market and Social Research Society as associate members.
Full course details
Course structures and subject information for the following cours(es):
Health Sciences/Business Melbourne
2013 Bachelor of Health Sciences/Bachelor of International Development Melbourne
4 years full-time or part-time equivalent Semester 1 (March)

Bachelor of Health Sciences/Bachelor of International Development continued…

Course description
Combining studies in these two disciplines is likely to open the door to many careers in which graduates can make a positive contribution to communities in developing countries. This course aims to give students specific skills in health administration, health policy and health services management, and an understanding of the issues involved in social, economic and political areas in developing nations. It strongly emphasises knowledge and skills relevant to the planning and delivery of health services in developing countries.
Prerequisite
VCE Units 3 & 4: study score of at least 25 in English (any) or 30 in English (ESL) and 20 in one of Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics (any), Physical Education or Physics.
Extra requirements
Non-Year 12 selection may be based on ATAR, VTAC Personal History online, GPA, STAT Multiple Choice.

Non-Year 12 applicants must complete and submit a VTAC Personal History online if they wish other information to be considered during the selection process. This may include information such as work experience or reasons for applying. Applicants may wish to provide other documentation in support of their application.

For more information about VTAC Personal History online please visit our Extra Requirements page.
Selection
ATAR (2013)
Melbourne: 65.25


Middle band
Re-ranking is based on relevant employment or work experience and Special Entry Access Scheme (SEAS) criteria.
Fee type
Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
Additional information

















































How to apply
VTAC
Full course details
Course structures and subject information for the following cours(es):
Health Sciences/International DevelopmentMelbourne
2013 Diploma in Health Sciences Bendigo
1 year full-time or part-time equivalent Semester 1 (February)

Diploma in Health Sciences continued…

Course description
This course suits students people interested in a career in health sciences. It is a pathway into many of La Trobe's undergraduate degree programs in health sciences. The curriculum covers key aspects of science related to health, and environmental and socially responsible considerations around professional healthcare.
Prerequisite
Successful completion of Year 12 plus recommendation from student's secondary school. Applicants may be asked to complete a piece of written work indicating interest in the program and which will be used to assess academic skill.
Extra requirements
Mature-age applicants are normally expected to have completed Year 12 studies or equivalent, and to provide a recommendation from an employer.

Non-Year 12 applicants must complete and submit a VTAC Personal History online if they wish other information to be considered during the selection process. This may include information such as work experience or reasons for applying. Applicants may wish to provide other documentation in support of their application.

For more information about VTAC Personal History online please visit our Extra Requirements page.
Selection
Selection is based on academic merit, with bonuses based on recommendation and/or work experience.
Fee type
Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
Additional information
All applicants must complete a piece of written work outlining their reasons for interest in the program.
How to apply
Apply directly to the University. See contact details below.
Professional recognition
Please note the course does not lead to accreditation with any health science registration boards.
Full course details
Course structures and subject information for the following cours(es):
Health Sciences (Diploma)Bendigo

Want to know more?

Feel free to ask us a question about any course for local students.

Fees and scholarships

Undergraduate courses are Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP) for eligible Australian and New Zealand citizens. The domestic fee calculator can be used to calculate the cost of subjects this year.

There is also a wide range of scholarships available for local students. 

International students

Show mid year entryShow next year’s courses

Public health international courses
Offer yearCourse title (CRICOS)Campus(es)DurationSemester startsAnnual Tuition Fee (AUD)
2013 Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Health Sciences (025959E) Melbourne
4 years Semester 1 (March) $25 220

Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Health Sciences continued…

Year
2013
Course description
This course allows students to create a program that best represents their interests and needs in arts and health sciences disciplines - providing many different career options. Some study combinations might include politics, society and public health, legal studies and health administration, human biosciences and archaeology, gender, sexuality and diversity studies and health promotion and/or public health.
English Language Requirements
Successful completion of English for Further Studies Advanced Stage 5B certificate at undergraduate (EFS5 (70%) PG1) level conducted by La Trobe Melbourne; for more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website.

IELTS (Academic): minimum score of 6.5 with no individual band score less than 6.0.

TOEFL Paper-based Test: minimum score of 575 (minimum score of 5 in the Test of Written English).

TOEFL Internet-based Test: minimum score of 80 with minimum overall for SLR 18; W 22.

La Trobe Melbourne Foundation Studies: 70 per cent final result in a course.

English as the language of instruction in tertiary studies may be accepted.
Please note: English as the language of instruction in previous study will not be accepted as a basis of admission (English)
for courses where the approved test score requirement is above an

Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE): minimum score of 64 with no communicative skill score less than 59.

Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE): a grade of B or higher.

Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE): a grade of C or higher.

or approved international equivalent.
Academic entry requirements
LTM Foundation Studies - 75
Aust. Yr 12 (ATAR) 2012 (indicative only) - 71.5 Melbourne campus
International Baccalaureate - 25
GCE A Levels - 9
Hong Kong A Levels - 7
HKDSE - 3 x Level 4
Sri Lankan A Levels- BCC
STPM - 9
MICSS (UEC) - 4
Canada Secondary School (or CPU) - 75
Norway Upper Secondary Certificate - 4
Sweden Slutbetyg - G/VG
All Indian Sen SC (Best 5 Subjects) - 75
Vietnam (Year 12) - 8
Indonesia (SMA) - 8
GAC Cert. IV - GPA 2.6
GAOKAO - see: the website


If you do not meet these entry requirements you might be interested in La Trobe's Foundation Studies and Diploma Programs, which provide an alternative pathway to La Trobe's undergraduate program. For more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website.
Subject prerequisite
One of Biology, Chemistry, Physics or Year 12 Mathematics.
Full course details
Course structures and subject information for the following cours(es):
Arts/Health Sciences Melbourne
2013 Bachelor of Health Sciences (062598G) Bendigo
Melbourne
3 years Semester 1 (March) $25 010

Bachelor of Health Sciences continued…

Year
2013
Course description
This highly flexible course aims to give students a broad understanding of the field of health sciences while pursuing areas of interest within the human biosciences, rehabilitation or public health domains. It can also provide provide a pathway into La Trobe's specialist health sciences courses.
English Language Requirements
Successful completion of English for Further Studies Advanced Stage 5B certificate at postgraduate (EFS5 (70%) PG1) level conducted by La Trobe Melbourne; for more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website.

IELTS (Academic): minimum score of 6.5 with no individual band score less than 6.0.

TOEFL Paper-based Test: minimum score of 575 (minimum score of 5 in the Test of Written English).

TOEFL Internet-based Test: minimum score of 80 with minimum overall for SLR 18; W 22.

La Trobe Melbourne Foundation Studies: 70 per cent final result in a course.

English as the language of instruction in tertiary studies may be accepted.
Please note: English as the language of instruction in previous study will not be accepted as a basis of admission (English)
for courses where the approved test score requirement is above an IELTS 6.5 with no band score lower than 6.0.

Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE): minimum score of 64 with no communicative skill score less than 59.

Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE): a grade of B or higher.

Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE): a grade of C or higher.

or approved international equivalent.
Academic entry requirements
LTM Foundation Studies - 65
Aust. Yr 12 (ATAR) 2012 (indicative only) - 51.05
International Baccalaureate - 24
GCE A Levels - 8
Hong Kong A Levels - 6
HKDSE - 2x Level 4
Sri Lankan A Levels - CCB
STPM - 8
MICSS (UEC) - 5
Canada Secondary School (or CPU) - 65
Norway Upper Secondary Certificate - 3.5
Sweden Slutbetyg - G
All Indian Sen SC (Best 5 Subjects) - 65
Vietnam (Year 12) - 8
Indonesia (SMA) - 8
GAC Cert. IV - GPA 2.3
GAOKAO - see: the website

If you do not meet these entry requirements you might be interested in La Trobe's Foundation Studies and Diploma Programs, which provide an alternative pathway to La Trobe's undergraduate program. For more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website.
Subject prerequisite
One of Biology, Chemistry, Year 12 Mathematics or Physics.
Full course details
Course structures and subject information for the following cours(es):
Health SciencesMelbourne
Health SciencesBendigo
2013 Bachelor of Health Sciences/Bachelor of Business (043552A) Melbourne
4 years Semester 1 (March) $24 470

Bachelor of Health Sciences/Bachelor of Business continued…

Year
2013
Course description
The healthcare sector has an increasing need for graduates with skills and knowledge in health sciences and business. This is due partly to Australia's traditionally strong private-sector involvement in healthcare service delivery, supply and financing, but also to new accountability requirements in the healthcare sector. Designed in response to current needs, this course offers a comprehensive foundation in business studies combined with the choice of a number of health specialisations.
English Language Requirements
Successful completion of English for Further Studies Advanced Stage 5B certificate at postgraduate (EFS5 (70%) PG1) level conducted by La Trobe Melbourne; for more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website.

IELTS (Academic): minimum score of 6.5 with no individual band score less than 6.0.

TOEFL Paper-based Test: minimum score of 575 (minimum score of 5 in the Test of Written English).

TOEFL Internet-based Test: minimum score of 80 with minimum overall for SLR 18; W 22.

La Trobe Melbourne Foundation Studies: 70 per cent final result in a course.

English as the language of instruction in tertiary studies may be accepted.
Please note: English as the language of instruction in previous study will not be accepted as a basis of admission (English)
for courses where the approved test score requirement is above an IELTS 6.5 with no band score lower than 6.0.

Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE): minimum score of 64 with no communicative skill score less than 59.

Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE): a grade of B or higher.

Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE): a grade of C or higher.

or approved international equivalent.
Academic entry requirements
LTM Foundation Studies - 70
Aust. Yr 12 (ATAR) 2012 (indicative only) - 65.40
International Baccalaureate - 25
GCE A Levels - 10
Hong Kong A Levels - 7
HKDSE - 3 x Level 4
Sri Lankan A Levels - BBC
STPM - 8.67
MICSS (UEC) - 4.5
Canada Secondary School (or CPU) - 70
Norway Upper Secondary Certificate - 4
Sweden Slutbetyg - G/VG
All Indian Sen SC (Best 5 Subjects) - 70
Vietnam (Year 12) - 8.2
Indonesia (SMA) - 8.2
GAC Cert. IV - GPA 2.6
GAOKAO - see: the website

If you do not meet these entry requirements you might be interested in La Trobe's Foundation Studies and Diploma Programs, which provide an alternative pathway to La Trobe's undergraduate program. For more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website.
Subject prerequisite
One of Biology, Chemistry, Year 12 Mathematics or Physics.
Professional recognition
Successful completion of the marketing major in the Bachelor of Business leads to membership of the Australian Marketing Institute or the Marketing Research Society of Australia as associate members.
Full course details
Course structures and subject information for the following cours(es):
Health Sciences/Business Melbourne
2013 Bachelor of Health Sciences/Bachelor of International Development (065929B) Melbourne
4 years Semester 1 (March) $24 470

Bachelor of Health Sciences/Bachelor of International Development continued…

Year
2013
Course description
Combining studies in these two disciplines is likely to open the door to many careers in which graduates can make a positive contribution to communities in developing countries. This course aims to give students specific skills in health administration, health policy and health services management, and an understanding of the issues involved in social, economic and political areas in developing nations. It strongly emphasises knowledge and skills relevant to the planning and delivery of health services in developing countries.
English Language Requirements
Successful completion of English for Further Studies Advanced Stage 5B certificate at postgraduate (EFS5 (70%) PG1) level conducted by La Trobe Melbourne; for more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website.

IELTS (Academic): minimum score of 6.5 with no individual band score less than 6.0.

TOEFL Paper-based Test: minimum score of 575 (minimum score of 5 in the Test of Written English).

TOEFL Internet-based Test: minimum score of 80 with minimum overall for SLR 18; W 22.

La Trobe Melbourne Foundation Studies: 70 per cent final result in a course.

English as the language of instruction in tertiary studies may be accepted.
Please note: English as the language of instruction in previous study will not be accepted as a basis of admission (English)
for courses where the approved test score requirement is above an IELTS 6.5 with no band score lower than 6.0.

Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE): minimum score of 64 with no communicative skill score less than 59.

Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE): a grade of B or higher.

Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE): a grade of C or higher.

or approved international equivalent.
Academic entry requirements
LTM Foundation Studies -70
Aust. Yr 12 (ATAR) 2012 (indicative only) - 63.25
International Baccalaureate - 25
GCE A Levels - 10
Hong Kong A Levels - 7
HKDSE - 3 x Level 4
Sri Lankan A Levels - BBC
STPM - 8.67
MICSS (UEC) - 4.5
Canada Secondary School (or CPU) - 70
Norway Upper Secondary Certificate - 4
Sweden Slutbetyg - G/VG
All Indian Sen SC (Best 5 Subjects) - 70
Vietnam (Year 12) - 8.2
Indonesia (SMA) - 8.2
GAC Cert. IV - GPA 2.6
GAOKAO - see: the website

If you do not meet these entry requirements you might be interested in La Trobe's Foundation Studies and Diploma Programs, which provide an alternative pathway to La Trobe's undergraduate program. For more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website.
Subject prerequisite
One of Biology, Chemistry, Physics or Year 12 Mathematics.
Full course details
Course structures and subject information for the following cours(es):
Health Sciences/International DevelopmentMelbourne

How to apply?

Enquire now about any course for international students or find out how to apply.

Fees and scholarships

Estimated fees for international students are indicated for each course above. Fees are indicative only and set at 120 credit points per course, unless otherwise stated, and may vary depending on the number of credit points in which students enrol. Some courses may vary in credit point load and fees will be adjusted accordingly.

There is also a range of scholarships available for international students to assist students.

Your study experience

Alternative pathways

Diploma of Health Sciences (Bendigo only)

Public health placements

Compulsory field placement subject in Year 3

Overseas study opportunities

You may be eligible for our student exchange program.

Student profiles

Students from our Faculty talk about their experience at La Trobe.

About the academic staff

You'll get to meet a large number of academics during your course, from tutors through to lecturers. You can view all the staff from the Faculty of Health Sciences or focus on staff in Public health.

Public health events

Please see the Event Calendar for events that are related to this study option.

If you would like to see the latest events for this page come up automatically, please enable JavaScript.

Browse all events