Graduate Diploma in Public Health

Be an advocate for health 

Public health is a broad discipline that aims to improve the health and wellbeing of communities and populations. Public health practitioners assess large-scale issues and come up with policy-based strategies to tackle them. 

Our graduate diploma is ideal for professionals looking to advance their career in the public health sector.

What will you do?

This qualification can be completed in one year of full-time study. You will:

  • complete four core courses and four electives
  • study the organisation and delivery of public health services
  • gain insight into relevant social, cultural, economic and environmental factors
  • explore policies and practices that support and improve health.

Flexible study options

The Graduate Diploma in Public Health offers a versatile path towards a rewarding career in the health sector. You can tailor your academic journey by selecting electives that reflect your specific interests and craft a customised study plan.

Where could it take you?

Graduates who meet entry requirements can progress to further study with the Master of Public Health. As a public health professional you might design and implement educational campaigns and programs. You could work with communities to manage local health problems. Perhaps you’ll keep the public informed during times of crisis.

New Commonwealth Supported Places

Successful domestic applicants to the Graduate Diploma in Public Health will now receive a Commonwealth Supported Place, meaning a reduction of up to 80% off of the full course fees due to government subsidies. Offer subject to change.

Study public health at the University of Adelaide

Discover how studying public health with us can give you the knowledge, skills and hands-on experience you need for career success—and equip you to make a real difference in the world.

  • Ranked #95 globally for Public, Environmental and Occupational Health*
  • Very strong employment growth projected (22% by 2026)^
  • Choose from over 25 electives in health

^Australian Government, Labour Market Insights, 2023.
*US News Best Global Universities Rankings, 2023.   

Entry Requirements

Choose your applicant type to view the relevant admissions information for this program.
I am a:

Before applying make sure you understand the eligibility and entry requirements for your chosen degree.

Look out for any prerequisites or assumed knowledge subjects. Some degrees also have additional entry requirements like interviews and auditions.

Domestic applicants

SATAC Code 3GD049
Deferment Yes - 2 year
Intake February and July
Selection Criteria
Graduate entry

Higher Education Study A completed Bachelors degree or equivalent with a minimum GPA of 4.5, OR A minimum of 7 years public health related work experience (evidence of which to be assessed by the program coordinator and must be uploaded with the SATAC application).

Please note: To upgrade to the Master of Public Health, students must achieve a GPA of 5.0 or higher.


  • Admissions Transparency Data
    Student Profile
    Applicant background Semester one/Full year intake 2023
    Number of students Percentage of all students
    International students 1 33.3%
    All students 3 100.0%

Ready to Apply?

Find out more about the application process and start your studies at the University of Adelaide.

Be sure to check the critical dates to avoid missing application deadlines.

Apply

Fees and Scholarships

Choose your applicant type to view the relevant fees and scholarships information for this program.
I am a:

Domestic applicants

Indicative annual tuition fees
Commonwealth-supported place: $8,945

Where the standard duration of the program is less than one year the full cost of the program is displayed.

Successful domestic applicants to the Graduate Diploma in Public Health will now receive a Commonwealth Supported Place, meaning a reduction of up to 80% off of the full course fees due to government subsidies. Offer subject to change.

Scholarships

Scholarships are not only for high achievers—they are also available to provide students with an equal opportunity to study at university, no matter where they live or what their financial situation might be.

Scholarships are available to both new and continuing students. We encourage students to apply for any scholarships for which they may be eligible.

To browse scholarships offered by the University, visit: University Scholarships

To explore scholarships offered by organisations external to the University, visit: External Scholarships

Careers

Career Readiness

The Graduate Diploma in Public Health enables professionals to further their career in organisations focusing on the prevention of  disease and health promotion, as well as protecting and improving the health of communities. Graduates have successful careers as public health officers, ministerial advisors, analysts, community development officers and project and research officers.

The University of Adelaide Careers Service prepares, inspires and empowers students to achieve successful career transitions and connect with industry.

Graduate Attributes

The objective of this program is to produce graduates with specific attributes as outlined in University of Adelaide Graduate Attributes.
  1. Deep discipline knowledge and intellectual breadth
  2. Creative and critical thinking, and problem solving
  3. Teamwork and communication skills
  4. Professionalism and leadership readiness
  5. Intercultural and ethical competency
  6. Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural competency
  7. Digital capabilities
  8. Self-awareness and emotional intelligence

Industry Placement

Advance your career in Public Health

Apoorva's placement during her studies gave her the opportunity to have an immediate impact on societal health, kickstarting her career in the industry.

Potential careers

Graduates of this program have gone on to roles such as:

Public Health;  Public Health Officer;  Ministerial Adviser;  Non Government Organisation Worker;  Community Development Officer;  Policy Adviser;  Development Officer;  Project Development Manager;  Project Manager;  Project Officer ...

Degree Structure

Students complete 2 core courses in Public Health and 6 elective courses in thematic areas in Public Health.

Academic Program Rules

The Calendar is a comprehensive handbook of the University's academic program rules.

Example Study Plan

Core Courses:
Electives - Select 2 courses from the following:
Select 4 courses from the following:

Assessment

Exams, presentations and written assignments.

Further Study

Students who meet entry requirements can progress to the Master of Public Health via the Graduate Diploma in Public Health.

Testimonial

I was continually inspired by the passion of my supervisory panel and their commitment to improving the lives of young people.

The University of Adelaide is committed to regular reviews of the courses and programs it offers to students. The University of Adelaide therefore reserves the right to discontinue or vary programs and courses without notice. Please read the important information contained in the disclaimer.

Last updated: Wednesday, 12 Jun 2024