Key facts
Duration
1 year full-time or part-time equivalent
Locations
Course overview
With the recent COVID-19 global health crisis highlighting the need for qualified healthcare professionals, public health specialists have never been so important. Study the Graduate Diploma of Public Health to take the first step towards a leadership role in this vital field. Develop practical skills in public health practice, epidemiology and biostatistics, and explore evidence-based strategies that address modern health challenges, locally and internationally.
Want to dip your toes in postgraduate study while boosting your career prospects in public health?
If you aim to make a difference to the wellbeing of people and communities through the field of public health, this course will give you the tools to make it happen. It is ideal for both clinical and non-clinical health professionals, as well as graduates from other disciplines who are passionate about improving the health of individuals, communities and populations.
The Graduate Diploma of Public Health focuses on evidence-based action that drives positive change across health systems. You will use the latest research to form strategies that tackle global health issues. Then bring your ideas to life by creating initiatives for policy change and interventions. Your initiatives will address disease prevention from a big-picture angle and promote the conditions that optimise population health.
The course focuses on improving existing health-promoting environments, identifying public health priorities, generating initiatives for policy and action, and developing strategies and interventions to ensure equity in the health system. It will provide you with:
- an appreciation of the historical foundations of public health
- a broad-based understanding of the determinants of health in populations
- knowledge, skills and understanding of broad public health endeavours
- knowledge and skills necessary to maintain and improve upon existing health-promoting environments
- critical thinking skills around the promotion of health and prevention of disease
- strategies to ensure equity in the health system and interventions to promote the health of disadvantaged groups.
- an appreciation of the complex challenges in public health and the need for multidimensional solutions
- skills necessary to generate and use research data.
The Graduate Diploma of Public Health features 8 core units from the Master of Public Health. These units give you a grounding in the strategies and practical techniques employed by public health professionals, with a particular focus on preventative measures and health equity. You will also be trained in key soft skills, such as problem solving, collaboration and leadership, ensuring you graduate with well-rounded capabilities. Upon successful completion of the course, you will have the option of enhancing your skills by continuing on to the Master of Public Health and will have already completed half of the credit points from the masters.
Your learnings will be shaped by Deakin’s world-class health research. You will have direct access to the research produced by the Institute for Healthcare Transformation and the Centre for Population Health Research, both of which are led by internationally recognised researchers. Studying a course so closely connected to leading research gives you a distinct advantage. Draw on these insights during projects, in your current role and throughout your entire career.
Key dates
Direct applications to Deakin for Trimester 2 2026 close 21 June 2026
Current Deakin students
To access your official course details for the year you started your degree, please visit the handbook
- Award granted
- Graduate Diploma of Public Health
- Year
2026 course information
- Deakin code
- H647
- CRICOS code?Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students
- 107523F Burwood (Melbourne)
- 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 Diploma of Public Health, you must pass 8 credit points. The number of credit points required may vary, depending on your entry point or how much credit you receive as recognition of prior learning (RPL) based on your professional experience and previous qualifications.
An 8-credit point Graduate Diploma of Public Health includes:
- DAI001 Academic Integrity and Respect at Deakin (0-credit-point compulsory unit) in their first study period
- 8 credit points of core units***
***Students commencing from Trimester 2 2026, please refer to the course maps and course structure as students will have the option of completing HSH725 or HSH753 as part of the core unit requirements.
Most units are equal to one credit point. As a full-time student you will study four credit points per trimester and usually undertake two trimesters per year.
All students are required to meet the University's academic progress and conduct requirements.
and one of
Note: Students wishing to continue their studies into the Master of Public Health and complete a minor or major project option are recommended to complete core unit HSH753 Research Methods in Health and Social Development.
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:
- Start date: July
- Available at:
Course duration
You may be able to study available units in the optional third trimester to fast-track your degree, however your course duration may be extended if there are delays in meeting course requirements, such as completing a placement.
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, practicals and online interaction. You will also need to study and complete assessment tasks in your own time. Details for individual units are available in the course structure.
Participation requirements
In the Faculty of Health you can expect to participate in a range of teaching activities each week. This could include classes, seminars, practicals 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.
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
- two years' of 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
$30,600 for 1 yr full-time - Full-fee paying place
Learn more about fees and your options for paying.
The available fee places for this course are detailed above. Not all courses at Deakin have Commonwealth supported places available.
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.
One year full-time study load is typically represented by eight credit points of study. Each unit you enrol in has a credit point value. The 'Estimated tuition fee' is calculated by adding together eight 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
Alternate exits
Career outcomes
The health industry is one of the largest and fastest growing employment sectors in Australia*. A postgraduate degree in public health puts you in a position to take advantage of this demand. Graduates can broaden their career options and use their leadership skills to progress to senior positions.
Public health practitioners have the opportunity to work in international organisations such as:
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
- United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF).
As well as:
- the non-government sector (for example, organisations focused on cancer, tobacco, drugs, reproductive health, obesity, food security, violence and HIV)
- the government sector at a federal or state level
- local councils.
Some common public health jobs include:
- Epidemiologist
- Community health worker
- Disease and infection investigator
- Environmental health specialist
- Global health professional
- Occupational health and safety specialist
- Urban planner
- Health educator
- Emergency preparedness and response coordinator
- Public health policy coordinator
- Research analyst
- Public health physician
Visit the Public Health Association of Australia (PHAA) website for more information.
* Australian Government National Skills Commission Industry Employment Outlook 2021
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 | Demonstrate the ability to apply knowledge and skills in the area of public health that includes the understanding of recent developments, research principles, methods and professional practice. |
| Communication | Demonstrate clear and effective communication skills to mindfully interpret, articulate and transmit public health information and practice to advise and educate diverse communities. |
| Digital literacy | Collect, organise, assess and transmit knowledge, skills and ideas across a range of public health contexts to disseminate and transmit information into practice. |
| Critical thinking | Evaluate evidence and appraise solutions to public health practice and care by critically reflecting on and generating complex ideas and concepts with consideration to diverse contexts. |
| Problem solving | Apply expert knowledge and skills using appropriate research methods to critically analyse, evaluate and develop authentic public health strategies and solutions to improve the health status and practice of communities. |
| Self-management | Demonstrate effective self-management skills to address personal workloads and timeframes with a commitment to ethical practice, engaging in lifelong learning. |
| Teamwork | Demonstrate the ability to contribute and work effectively within a team environment across a range of disciples and backgrounds. |
| Global citizenship | Engage in ethical and professional practice and research to generate appropriate and culturally sensitive responses to public health contexts. |
*Deakin references data from a range of government, higher education and reputable media sources. For more information, visit our University rankings page.
