Key facts
Duration
Up to 1 year of part-time study. The course is only available to students on a part-time basis.
Locations
Course overview
From tackling the spread of infectious disease, to shaping preventive health programs, public health professionals play an important role in our healthcare system. Take your first steps towards a leading role in this field with Deakin’s Graduate Certificate of Public Health. You’ll build vital skills in public health practice, epidemiology, and biostatistics, preparing you for the dynamic scenarios that you will face when working in the field.
Are you ready to lead public health strategy and policy development?
The Graduate Certificate of Public Health will equip you with the knowledge to respond to and prevent health issues at a big-picture level. You’ll be exposed to the latest research and industry evidence, empowering you to lead policy change and public health interventions. As a graduate, you will demonstrate advanced problem solving, analytical, and collaboration skills, enabling you to become a high-performing member of a public health team.
The Graduate Certificate of Public Health is ideal for clinical and non-clinical professionals, as well as graduates from other fields who are passionate about improving societal health. You will learn about the strategies and practical techniques employed by public health professionals, with a particular focus on preventative measures and health equity. This course enables you to:
- explore how different theories and disciplinary perspectives have informed public health principles and practices.
- understand the role of epidemiology in public health, by exploring study designs, tools, methods, as well as the latest research findings in the field.
- apply biostatistical techniques to health-related data, by exploring the philosophical basis of statistical thought, examining fundamental statistical concepts and methods, as well as exploring their application in a variety of health settings.
Your learning will be shaped by Deakin’s leading public health research, which is rated as well above world standard^. You’ll have direct access to research produced by the Institute for Health Transformation, which is led by internationally recognised researchers. Close links with cutting-edge research will allow you to gain critical insights for your current role and throughout your career.
You have the option to study on-campus, or through our innovative online learning platform. The flexible online option allows you to study when and where it suits you, without compromising quality or support. You will receive personalised support from teaching staff who will guide you through class discussions and seminars, preparing you for a career in public health.
Upon successful completion of the course, you will also have the option to further your skills by continuing on to the Graduate Diploma of Public Health, or the Master of Public Health.
^ Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA), 2018
Key dates
Direct applications to Deakin for Trimester 2 2026 close 21 June 2026
Direct applications to Deakin for Trimester 3 2026 close 18 October 2026
Current Deakin students
To access your official course details for the year you started your degree, please visit the handbook
- Award granted
- Graduate Certificate of Public Health
- Year
2026 course information
- Deakin code
- H547
- Level
- Postgraduate (Graduate Certificate and Graduate Diploma)
- Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) recognition
The award conferred upon completion is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 8
Flexible course delivery
Deakin’s blend of online and on-campus learning means you can balance work, study and personal development. Achieve work-life balance – study with Deakin's dedicated support and flexible learning options.
Course structure
To complete the Graduate Certificate of Public Health, you must pass 4 credit points. This includes:
- DAI001 Academic Integrity and Respect at Deakin (0-credit-point compulsory unit) in your first study period
- 3 credit points of core units
- 1 credit point of course elective units
Most units are equal to one credit point.
All students are required to meet the University's academic progress and conduct requirements.
Note:
- This course is part-time only
Intakes by location
The availability of a course varies across locations and intakes. This means that a course offered in Trimester 1 may not be offered in the same location for Trimester 2 or 3. Check each intake for up-to-date information on when and where you can commence your studies.
- Start date: March
- Available at:
- Burwood (Melbourne) campus
- Online
- Start date: July
- Available at:
- Burwood (Melbourne) campus
- Online
- Start date: November
- Available at:
- Burwood (Melbourne) campus
- Online
Course duration
Course duration may be affected by delays in completing course requirements, such as failing of units or accessing or completing placements.
Mandatory student checks
Any unit which contains work integrated learning, a community placement or interaction with the community may require a National Police Record Check, a Working with Children Check or other check. Refer the relevant unit guide.
Workload
As a student in the Faculty of Health you can expect to participate in a range of teaching activities each week. This could include lectures, seminars, workshops, and online interaction. You can refer to the individual unit details in the course structure for more information. You will also need to study and complete assessment tasks in your own time.
The course requires a part-time commitment, with a substantive load of learning activities and study time. Although the course is designed for working health professionals, students will on average spend 150 hours per unit credit point over the teaching period undertaking the teaching, learning and assessment activities.
Participation requirements
See individual unit descriptions for full details.
At Deakin, we’re committed to creating an inclusive learning environment that supports all students to succeed. We work closely with students to identify and reduce barriers, and where possible, provide tailored support to help students engage with learning and assessment activities, ensuring every student has the opportunity to belong and thrive.
If you are disabled, neurodivergent, Deaf, and/or you live with the effects of a mental health condition, chronic health condition, or other condition that impacts your studies or participation in university life, we encourage you to reach out to our Disability Resource Centre for a collaborative and confidential discussion.
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Entry requirements
Selection is based on a holistic consideration of your academic merit, work experience, likelihood of success, availability of places, participation requirements, regulatory requirements, and individual circumstances. You will need to meet the minimum academic and English language proficiency requirements or higher to be considered for selection, but this does not guarantee admission.
A combination of qualifications and experience may be deemed equivalent to minimum academic requirements.
To be considered for admission to this degree you will need to meet at least one of the following criteria:
- completion of a bachelor degree or higher
- at least two years' relevant work experience (or part-time equivalent)
Examples of relevant work experience include, but not limited to: healthcare, community sector, communications, education, humanitarian sector, creative arts, and policy.
To meet the English language proficiency requirements of this course, you will need to demonstrate at least one of the following:
- bachelor degree from a recognised English-speaking country
- IELTS overall score of 6.5 (with no band score less than 6.0) in each component of test
- other evidence of English language proficiency (learn more about other ways to satisfy the requirements)
Learn more about Deakin courses and how we compare to other universities when it comes to the quality of our teaching and learning.
Not sure if you can get into Deakin postgraduate study? Postgraduate study doesn’t have to be a balancing act; we provide flexible course entry and exit options based on your desired career outcomes and the time you are able to commit to your study.
Fees and scholarships
Fee information
Estimated tuition fee - full-fee paying place
$15,300 - Full-fee paying place
Learn more about fees and your options for paying.
Estimated tuition fee - (CSP) ?Enrolling in a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) means the Australian Government pays part of your course fees directly to Deakin, and you pay a 'student contribution'.
$4,128 - Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Learn more about fees.
The available fee places for this course are detailed above. Tuition fees are determined by your enrolment:
- If you are offered a full fee paying place, your tuition fees are calculated based on your course.
- If you are offered a Commonwealth supported place, your tuition fees are calculated depending on the units you choose.
The 'Estimated tuition fee' is provided as a guide only and represents the typical tuition fees for students completing this course within the same year they started. The cost will vary depending on the units you choose, your study load, the length of your course and any approved Recognition of prior learning you have. The 'Estimated tuition fee' is calculated by adding together four credit points of study. Four credit points is used as it represents a typical enrolment load for a Graduate Certificate. Each unit you enrol in has a credit point value. The 'Estimated tuition fee' is calculated by adding together four credit points of a typical combination of units for your course. You can find the credit point value of each unit under the Unit Description by searching for the unit in the handbook. Learn more about fees and available payment options.
Higher Education Loan Program
Take the next step towards your ultimate degree with a Higher Education Loan Program (HELP) loan to help pay your tuition fees. You may be eligible for a HELP loan – including FEE-HELP or HECS-HELP – depending on your course, type of fee place, and your citizenship or residency status. Check your eligibility and learn more about Government HELP loans.
Scholarship options
A Deakin scholarship can open the door to new opportunities. Whether you have something unique to offer or simply need a bit of extra support to reach your goals, we’re here to help. Scholarships can assist with course fees, living costs and study materials – so you can focus on achieving your best. Explore the range of opportunities and find the right fit for you.
Postgraduate bursary
We love welcoming Deakin alumni back to continue their journey with us. If you're starting a postgraduate award course, you may be eligible for a 10% discount on your enrolment fees, applied per unit. It's our way of supporting your next step.
Apply now
Apply directly to Deakin
To apply, create an account in the Deakin Application Portal, enter your personal details and education experience, upload supporting documents and submit. Need help? Play this video, or contact one of our friendly future student advisers on 1800 693 888 or submit an online enquiry.
Need more information on how to apply?
For more information on the application process and closing dates, see the How to apply webpage. If you're still having problems, please contact us for assistance.
Pathways
Students will be eligible to apply for credit for this course.
Students completing the Graduate Certificate of Public Health can articulate into a higher award, the Master of Public Health (H757)
Graduates of the course may also be eligible for RPL (Recognition of prior learning) into the following courses:
Master of Health Promotion (H759)
Master of Health Economics (H704)
Master of Health Management (H756)
Career outcomes
The healthcare and social assistance sector is Australia’s largest and fastest growing sector, with 301,000 new jobs projected to be created by November 2026*. The Graduate Certificate of Public Health will prepare you to meet this demand and you will be in a strong position to pursue roles in:
- global organisations, such as the World Health Organization (WHO), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF)
- advocacy roles within organisations focused on cancer, tobacco, drugs, reproductive health, environmental health, obesity, food security, violence and HIV.
- population health and screening
- federal, state, and local government health departments.
The course can also be used as a pathway into the Graduate Diploma of Public Health, or the Master of Public Health. Continue your studies to develop more advanced skills, build industry experience and grow your professional network.
*2021 Employment Outlook – for the five years to November 2026. Australian Government, Jobs and Skills Australia
Professional recognition
All students will receive a two-year membership to the Public Health Association of Australia (PHAA) while studying.
Deakin's graduate learning outcomes describe the knowledge and capabilities graduates can demonstrate at the completion of their course. These outcomes mean that regardless of the Deakin course you undertake, you can rest assured your degree will teach you the skills and professional attributes that employers value. They'll set you up to learn and work effectively in the future.
| Deakin Graduate Learning Outcomes | Course Learning Outcomes |
|---|---|
| Discipline-specific knowledge and capabilities | Apply knowledge of public health theory, policy, surveillance, disease control and prevention, research principles, and recent public health developments in Australia and globally to practice and scholarship. |
| Communication | Communicate public health evidence, issues and solutions in an effective and coherent manner to specialist and non-specialist audiences. |
| Digital literacy | Demonstrate digital literacies in public health practice and scholarship to locate, interpret and transmit knowledge, data and ideas. |
| Critical thinking | Critically evaluate public health evidence, theory and solutions. |
| Problem solving | Use appropriate analytical and research methods to identify and interpret public health problems and propose appropriate solutions to prevent disease and injury and protect and improve health. |
| Self-management | Demonstrate effective self-management skills, autonomy and accountability applicable to public health professional practice. |
| Teamwork | Collaborate and communicate effectively with others from a range of disciplines and backgrounds. |
| Global citizenship | Apply ethically appropriate research and practice skills to the appraisal of public health related issues and generate appropriate and culturally sensitive responses. |
*Deakin references data from a range of government, higher education and reputable media sources. For more information, visit our University rankings page.
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