Health Sciences

School of Public Health

Public Health Program

Graduate Certificate in Public Health
Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health
Master of Public Health

A Master of Public Health (MPH) is an internationally recognised degree which will enable you to work all over the world in a wide variety of public health settings. In Victoria we offer a collaboratively-delivered MPH through the Victorian Consortium for Public Health (VCPH) of four major universities, Deakin, La Trobe, Monash, and The University of Melbourne. Whilst teaching a common Part I, the universities offer their own specialised Part II, each reflecting the research and experience of their own staff.

Admission Requirements

Prospective students for the MPH are required to hold a degree or equivalent in a health sciences discipline. Students without a degree but with significant experience are welcome to apply.

Course Structure

The shared Consortium subjects (the first year of the teaching program) are taught at The University of Melbourne in Parkville.  La Trobe specific Part II subjects are generally taught at the La Trobe City Campus. Both Commonwealth Supported (HECS-HELP) are available. The Graduate Certificate (4 units) and Postgraduate Diploma (8 units) are not offered as an enrolment option however students who enrol but for various reasons cannot finish a Master of Public Health course may be eligible for a Graduate Certificate or Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health.

Part I of the La Trobe MPH consists of four core units, see below, and up to four additional subjects depending on the student's prior learning and experience.

Part II also consists of 8 units and is undertaken at La Trobe in one of two modes - research mode (thesis + research methods + coursework) or practice mode (coursework subjects). Six specialist streams are available in the La Trobe MPH (plus one general stream).

Students with graduate-level study in a relevant area of public health or substantial health-related work experience may be entitled to credit for up to four subjects. Credits are awarded on a case by case basis by negotiation with the course coordinator.

Part I

The following eight subjects are taught jointly by the consortium (VCPH). Four are nominated as La Trobe core subjects.

MPH/VCPH 2008 Timetable

Students can either take their remaining Part I subjects from those presented by the Consortium, or from the Part II subjects offered by La Trobe. Students are advised to discuss their course plan with the course coordinator.

Part II

La Trobe Part II students have the choice of completing their MPH in either practice mode or research mode.

Practice Mode

The Public Health Practice mode provides opportunities to use and develop skills learned during Part I of the program. Undertaking the MPH Part II in the Practice Mode involves:

• Action Learning Project (PHE5ALP) equivalent to two semester length subjects; and

• between 5 and 9 electives depending on experience levels.

Research Mode

For people who wish to train as public health researchers, this pathway involves a focus on research methods in a variety of settings. A three subject (45 credit point) minor thesis provides an introduction to research and the beginnings of an acquaintance with research disciplines. The research mode provides a good preparation for those considering doctoral study in public health.

Students should enrol in 3 thesis subjects which results in a 45 credit point thesis.

Taking the Part II research mode will involve:

• at least two research methods subjects;

• a three subject equivalent research project/minor thesis; and

• up to three electives from the specialty streams.

Application Process

Entry into the MPH program is based on a combination of your existing qualifications and experience in public health, your professional involvement, and your personal statement outlining the reasons for applying.

Students wishing to apply for the La Trobe MPH are required to complete the MPH Application Form

Please note that the closing date for first round Commonwealth Supported Places is 1 December 2007

If you are unable to download the Application form, please email the Postgraduate Administration Officer to request for a copy to be sent to you.

Contact Details

Enquiries

Email: phe.postgrad@latrobe.edu.au

Course Coordinator

Dr Priscilla Robinson
Email: priscilla.robinson@latrobe.edu.au
Phone: 03 9479 5595