When I think about my time at La Trobe, what stands out most is the number of opportunities that came my way and how much I grew because of them.

I came to La Trobe to study a Master of Digital Health because I was curious about the future of healthcare and how technology could improve people’s lives. Although I knew I wanted to be in this field, I didn’t fully understand what digital health really looked like in practice. Throughout my studies, I genuinely enjoyed the course and was able to learn from academics and industry professionals who are actively shaping the future of healthcare.

One of the things I learned early on is that digital health is not a straightforward field where there is one clear career path or one simple solution. It is highly interconnected and brings together healthcare, technology, data, policy, research, design and people. That complexity is what makes digital health both challenging and exciting. It encouraged me to think more broadly about healthcare and the different ways innovation can create impact.

Studying the Master of Digital Health has opened the door to many opportunities.

One of the most valuable experiences was my internship with the Australasian Institute of Digital Health as a Policy and Advocacy Assistant. Policy wasn’t an area I had explored before but the experience gave me a much broader understanding of the digital health sector and where healthcare is heading. It helped me see how important advocacy, leadership, and collaboration are in driving change across the health system. It allowed me to attend different programs related to digital health technology.

Interning with the Australasian Institute of Digital Health as a Policy and Advocacy Assistant.

I was also fortunate to work on an AI-powered Palliative Care Assessment Tool project through the guidance of Dr. Urooj R. Khan and Dr. Hanan Khalil and I had the opportunity to observe and contribute to a project focused on supporting aged care services. Seeing how a digital solution is developed from ideas to implementation and understanding the many stakeholders involved was fascinating. It helped me connect what I was learning in the classroom with real-world healthcare challenges.

Beyond academics and work experience, I have really enjoyed being part of the La Trobe community.

I’ve made some wonderful friends from different backgrounds and cultures and those friendships have been one of the most rewarding parts of my journey.

I also enjoyed attending campus events, networking sessions, and student activities, which helped me feel connected and made university life much more memorable.

Meeting people from all backgrounds and cultures at La Trobe.

As an international student from Nepal with a background in public health, La Trobe gave me the opportunity to explore new ideas, build professional networks, gain practical experience and grow both personally and professionally.

Looking back, I’m grateful not only for the education I received but also for the people I met, the experiences I had, and the confidence I gained to pursue a career in digital health.

For anyone considering studying digital health, my advice is to step outside your comfort zone. Digital health is a relatively new and evolving field, and there isn’t one specific job title waiting for graduates at the end of the degree. Instead, it opens doors to many different career pathways. The beauty of this field is that you can shape your career based on your interests and strengths while evolving with the system.

I would also encourage students to connect with alumni and professionals already working in the industry. Hearing about their career journeys helped me understand the possibilities within digital health and provided valuable insights into where the field is heading.

As an international student, I know that securing opportunities can sometimes feel challenging with additional barriers but it is not impossible. You don’t need to be perfect or have all the answers before starting this course.

It’s natural to feel uncertain when entering a field that combines healthcare, technology, data and innovation. What matters most is being curious, willing to learn and prepared to embrace new challenges.

As for me, I look forward to continuing my journey at the intersection of public health and digital health, bringing together my passion for improving community health and my interest in technology and innovation. My goal is to contribute to projects that use digital solutions to improve health outcomes, strengthen healthcare systems and create lasting impact for communities. I’m excited to see where this journey takes me next.

The post My journey into digital health  appeared first on MyLaTrobe.

A strong passion for upskilling and improving her ability to support patients inspired Jessica to begin a Masters of Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy at La Trobe with the intention of gaining an Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA) Title.

“The coursework was rigorous and encouraged me to think critically about assessment and management strategies for musculoskeletal conditions,” she said.

Enjoy the flexibility of hybrid learning

As the program was delivered predominantly online, Jessica was able to continue working full-time while studying, as well as ensuring she spent quality time with her family throughout her degree.

With a hybrid learning approach, Jessica enjoyed a combination of online lectures and assignments, with clinical placements and some on-campus clinical learning in the final year of the course.

Relevant clinical placements within her interest areas saw Jessica build experience and further her skills at specialist outpatient orthopaedic clinics and a pain clinic – something she described as ‘career-defining’.

“The most rewarding part was the opportunity to work in highly specialised clinical environments that directly aligned with my interests,” said Jessica.

Solidify strong industry networks

For Jessica, the clinical placements were one of the most valuable aspects of the course. Described as “valuable collaborations with industry-leading physiotherapists and multi-disciplinary teams,” Jessica built meaningful connections with her fellow professionals.

“I was fortunate to be mentored by highly trained physiotherapists who treated us not simply as students, but as motivated clinicians eager to deepen our knowledge and refine our skills,” explained Jessica.

“I still maintain contact with many of these mentors for guidance on challenging presentations. As some now work within the same catchment area, we’ve been able to debrief and collaborate on complex cases in real time.”

Jessica was asked what she wished she knew before starting the Masters degree, describing the value of maintaining strong connections with peers and educators, and how it can leave the door open to future opportunities and collaborations.

Jessica describes the course’s clinical educators as ‘instrumental’ to her growth.

“Their constructive feedback and willingness to share their expertise shaped my confidence and reinforced my passion.”

Reap the rewards after sewing the seeds

Having completed the Masters degree in 2022, Jessica is now a marker for assessments of the very same course; something she said has been “very fulfilling to ensure I keep my learned clinical skills relevant.”

“Since completing the Masters, I have also designed, implemented and led a pain management program within my community health setting. I trained and coordinated an allied health team to deliver holistic, evidence-based care,” Jessica explained.

To stay motivated during her studies, Jessica ensured she kept focused on her long-term goals and the impact that her work would have on her patients.

“Staying organised amid work commitments and planning ahead were crucial strategies that helped me manage my time effectively,” shared Jessica.

“Celebrating small wins during placement also kept my motivation high throughout the journey!”

For Jessica, success was not just completing the course but also graduating with the confidence, skills and professional network to excel in her chosen field.

“Achieving the Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy APA title as a result of completing this Masters program has also opened up new career opportunities and provided recognition for my commitment to further learning, reinforcing the value of the postgraduate journey in advancing my professional standing.”

As for advice for others considering postgraduate study, Jessica encourages solid preparation to ensure an ‘incredibly rewarding journey.’

“Choose a program that aligns with your professional interests and goals and be ready to fully engage with both the academic and clinical components,” she advised.

“Be open to constructive criticism and feedback to get the most out of placements, and be willing to acknowledge and work through your own clinical biases to grow as a practitioner.”

Find out what you’re capable of

Join a free webinar (live or on-demand) to learn more about La Trobe’s postgraduate study options at La Trobe University. Take your career to the next level and make a real impact.

• Master of Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy webinar
• Master of Sports and Exercise Physiotherapy webinar
• Explore Allied Health courses

The post Build your skills and connections with postgraduate study appeared first on MyLaTrobe.

Here’s why postgrad at La Trobe might be the next step you’ve been looking for…

1. You can design study to fit around your life

La Trobe’s flexible study model lets you tailor your uni experience to suit you. From on-campus to online study (or a mix of both!), we want postgrad studies to fit around your life – not the other way around.

To help with this, we offer a variety of flexible study modes, research projects and study loads that you can choose from. Living far away from campus or busy working a 9 to 5 job? You might want to explore the 100% online courses offer by La Trobe Online.

2. Your salary could get a serious boost

A postgrad degree under your belt can really help to set you apart from the crowd when you enter the workforce. Diversifying your skill set can open you up to more opportunities with seriously competitive salaries.

 La Trobe is in the top 3 in Victoria for postgraduate employment, and the median salary paid to postgraduate coursework graduates sits at $102,500.¹

3. There are more Commonwealth Supported Places (CSPs) than ever before!

We want you to focus on studies, not fees. That’s why we currently offer more Commonwealth Supported Places (CSPs) across our postgraduate courses than ever before, which means the Australian Government pays part of your university fees. 

We also have a range of postgraduate scholarships available to support you during your studies. Plus, if you’re an existing or past La Trobe student, our Alumni Advantage could mean you’re eligible for a 10% reduction on your next course.

4. You can increase your opportunities for full-time employment

If you’re a jobseeker with a postgraduate degree, you’re more likely to get work in your desired field that those with a Bachelor’s degree alone. In fact, La Trobe postgrads are highly employable, with 93.7 per cent² of our domestic graduates finding full-time work.

5. You can diversify or specialise – the choice is yours

With a variety of courses to suit everyone, postgrad is the perfect way to either expand your field of knowledge or specialise in an area you’re passionate about.

Looking for a career change or something different after your undergrad? Postgraduate degrees can help you reskill in a new field, from teaching to health, business or law. Looking to hone your skills in a specific area? An Honours year or Master’s degree is the ideal opportunity to dive deep into your passions and open the door to more advanced roles in your field.

Studying a postgraduate course at La Trobe also gives you the opportunity to participate in work integrated learning – allowing you to rub shoulders with CEOs, STEM scientists, journalists, legal practitioners or anyone else who inspires you!

Ready to take the next step?

With so many good reasons to start your postgraduate degree, now’s the time to look at your options and take your career to the next level…

Want more information? Join one of our live and on-demand webinars or book a one-on-one consultation today.

_References:
^{1. Quality Indicators for Learning and Teaching (QILT), 2024, 2024 Graduate Outcomes Survey – Longitudinal}

^{2. Quality Indicators for Learning and Teaching (QILT), 2024, 2024 Graduate Outcomes Survey – Longitudinal}

The post 5 reasons to dive straight into postgraduate study appeared first on MyLaTrobe.

From Bendigo to her hometown of Shepparton, Hannah Freeman has returned to begin the next chapter of her journey — commencing the Doctor of Medicine through the University of Melbourne Rural Pathway.

“I just graduated from La Trobe with a Bachelor of Biomedical Science (Medical) and have now started my first year of medical school through the University of Melbourne’s Rural Pathway based in my hometown of Shepparton. Eventually, I hope to graduate and work as either a GP or rural generalist and help people in rural areas access the healthcare they deserve.”

For Hannah, the decision to pursue medicine is closely tied to her lived experience and a desire to give back to communities like her own.

“I am the youngest of four daughters, and we lost our mum to early onset dementia in 2017 when we were aged 19, 17, 16 and 13 respectively.

My mum’s diagnosis and death inspired me to pursue a career in medicine, to help other people and their families who may endure similar experiences to what my family went through.

Dementia, in any of its forms, is a truly devastating disease. I think I was too young to fully appreciate just how much of a strain her illness put on the rest of my family, particularly my dad and my mum’s mum, my Nan, who took on full time carer roles for her, as well as continuing to raise and care for my sisters and I. It is a heartbreakingly common disease, identified as Australia’s leading cause of death.”

Hannah says that experience continues to shape both her studies and her outlook on the future of healthcare.

“Being able to study medicine in my hometown, and to be a part of this incredible program training rural doctors, is something I feel incredibly privileged to do. Being able to live at home with my Dad is such a privilege, and one that in the past, just didn’t exist, with all rural students being forced to move to Melbourne to study. I am so excited for the next four years to be out in the community on placements and for all the new experiences that will come along with this chapter.”

Alongside starting medicine, Hannah also continues to prioritise her wellbeing and balance during a demanding year of study.

“Fitness is a bit of a non-negotiable for me, particularly running and weightlifting. As much as I hate waking up early in the morning, I never regret exercising before going to classes. It is amazing for my mental health and stress management.”

This May, Hannah will be lacing up her running shoes amid a demanding start to medical school, training for the 10km Melbourne Memory Walk & Jog to support Australians impacted by dementia — and we wish her all the best as she takes on the challenge while balancing her studies, training, and new beginnings in medicine.

The post Graduate spotlight: Hannah Freeman appeared first on MyLaTrobe.

Why not use part of your summer break to get ahead in your studies! This year there are more summer subjects than ever and enrolment for Summer 2025/Term 1 2026 is open now!

You can use Summer School to:

• finish university and start a career sooner
• spread out the workload to a more convenient time
• free up more time for working during the standard semester
• study a subject that could be an elective in your course
• complete a subject that you may have dropped previously (where offered)
• make up for a subject that you failed (where offered).

Dates

Check the Handbook to see which subjects are available during the Summer teaching period.

When using the Handbook search, select from the teaching period filter. Use the filter to find Summer subjects between 17 November and 13 February.

Please note you will need to complete two different searches to see all Summer subjects (i.e. one for subjects starting in 2025 and one for subjects starting in 2026).

Always double-check the Handbook to ensure that your chosen Summer subject is running. Subject instances may change at any time, without warning.

The post Fast-track your degree with Summer School appeared first on MyLaTrobe.

Nicole’s choice to study a JD is a testament to the power of following your instincts. After completing a Bachelor of Science with plans to study medicine, Nicole took a gap year to travel and reflect. It was then that she made a bold pivot to law, despite having no formal background in the field:

‘I wanted a change, so I finally took a leap of faith and applied to law schools.’

Nicole has already been making waves. From receiving the Dean’s Prize for Principles of Criminal Law to being awarded the La Trobe Law School’s scholarship for the Duke-Leiden Institute for Global and Transnational Law in the Hague, her postgraduate experience has been rich with opportunity.

Nicole’s passion for criminal law was sparked by a standout lecturer, Dr Steven Tudor, whose teaching style and encouragement helped her gain confidence in a new academic field. ‘My interest in becoming a criminal barrister was ignited because of Steven and his subject,’ Nicole told us. This was further solidified with the Victorian Bar Shadowing Program, where she observed real criminal trials and developed a deeper understanding of justice in action:

‘I was able to witness the role of both the prosecutor and defence, providing me with a more nuanced perspective on criminal trials. That practical exposure, combined with intensive coursework, has refined my ambition to practice in criminal law.’

Beyond the classroom, Nicole is actively involved in the La Trobe Law Students’ Association, serving first as a JD Officer and now as JD Director, where she liaises with the course coordinator and represents her peers. She’s also competed in moot court competitions, sharpening her advocacy and legal reasoning skills. Balancing study with life isn’t always easy, but Nicole says she’s found a rhythm that works: ‘I like having an overview of the week ahead and also an hour-by-hour schedule to ensure I achieve what I want to get done with ample time for social life and rest.’

As she looks ahead, Nicole’s goal is clear – to become a criminal barrister and use her legal training to pursue justice:

‘I remind myself that I am doing this with a purpose. I am intentional with how I approach my studies because I want to be a helpful member of society in pursuing and ensuring justice.’

Her advice to anyone considering postgraduate study? ‘There’s no perfect timing. Rely on your instinct and start when you are ready.’

Thinking about postgraduate study in law? 

Whether you’re coming from a legal background or not, La Trobe’s Juris Doctor program offers the support, flexibility and inspiration to help you thrive. Start making your impact today and join our JD webinar on Monday 28 July. 

If law isn’t for you, there are plenty of other postgraduate courses available at La Trobe! You can explore your options with our range of live webinars happening soon.

The post Nicole’s leap of faith from science to the courtroom appeared first on MyLaTrobe.

We’ve got your ultimate guide to the employers making waves in various sectors!

From innovative tech giants to impactful public services, there’s a place for every passion and ambition. These companies have been selected based on feedback from university students and fresh graduates like you, so this is a ranking you can trust.

Check out the list!

Explore similar articles on our career portal.

The post Explore Australia’s Top 100 Graduate Employers for 2025! appeared first on MyLaTrobe.

The program began 18 months ago with the purpose of providing support networks and removing fears and barriers surrounding tertiary education so that Indigenous students can build their self-esteem and confidently pursue higher education.

What does the RISE with La Trobe program involve?

The RISE with La Trobe program incorporates both on-campus and on-country cultural and academic enrichment initiatives to ensure students gain exposure to the higher education experience, as well as connect with their culture and First Nations peers and community.

When on campus, students participate in a ‘day in the life of a university student’ where they are given autonomy to plan their schedule, attend lectures and workshops as well as meet current First Nations university students.

The cultural aspects of the program provide an opportunity for the students to meet with Elders and community leaders, visit cultural sites of significance and participate in cultural tours and activities.

Part of this is also an annual cultural and educational camp that brings all RISE students together to meet new friends as well as learn about higher education opportunities. The program extends its support beyond these initiatives by providing RISE with La Trobe program students access to career expos, mentoring, referral services, and academic skills and exam preparation workshops.

“Overall, this camp helped increase confidence in myself and my future career choices. This camp was such an amazing experience. I would definitely recommend it to anyone that may be considering going to uni because it has helped me realise that uni is what I need, to get into my career”. – Student feedback

What happens after the program?

This support for First Nations students continues after the RISE with La Trobe program has been completed. Year 11 and 12 students are offered a pathway program equal to their academic level and are given a laptop and complimentary two-hours private tuition per week. Completion of this pathway leads to a conditional offer into La Trobe.

The post Indigenous pathways RISE with La Trobe program supports First Nations high school students appeared first on MyLaTrobe.