Are you passionate about solving global health challenges, improving community well-being or shaping policies that create healthier societies? If so, a career in public health will enable you to make this positive impact.
With the World Health Organisation estimating a shortfall of 11 million health workers by 20301, the global workforce shortage presents a ripple effect that is felt worldwide. For current and aspiring public health workers in Australia, this amplifies the vital need for skilled experts capable of navigating health challenges and driving transformation that can have global impact.
This article will explore the crucial role of public health, the careers available and how the University of Melbourne is empowering passionate professionals to advance the best possible care for everyone in the world with their online public health courses.
What is public health?
Public health is all about improving the health and wellbeing of entire populations by preventing diseases and promoting healthy lifestyle through education and policy. Unlike clinical work, which focuses on treating individual patients, public health operates with a wider lens.
It involves studying and addressing the factors that lead to health inequality and implementing preventative measures to promote better health outcomes for populations. There are a number of areas of work in public health; the most common include:
- Health promotion
- Environmental health
- Community health
- Epidemiology
- Biostatistics
- Health law
- Disease prevention.
Why is public health essential?
Public health plays a vital role in every community. While public health can take many forms, some of the key reasons why public health is essential is because it creates a foundation for systems and policies that protect the health of communities locally, nationally and globally. Public health professionals do this through:
- Disease prevention: Reducing the prevalence of diseases through initiatives such as vaccinations, screenings and health campaigns
- Policy development: Influencing and guiding health regulations to ensure safer and healthier environments
- Health education: Raising awareness about everyday practices that can boost well-being, such as maintaining a balanced diet or quitting smoking
- Global crisis response: Managing large-scale emergencies, from pandemics to natural disasters
- Health research: Ongoing health research helps us understand and defend against emerging risks.
For example, Australia’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic showcased public health’s immense value, from coordinated testing to implementing policies that protected vulnerable groups.
Unlock diverse career options in public health
According to the Australian Government’s Jobs and Skills, the healthcare and social assistance sector is projected to grow by 585,000 persons, or 25.9 per cent by 20342, reinforcing the demand for skilled professionals.
Completing a postgraduate qualification in public health can unlock diverse career opportunities. Roles you may pursue as a public health graduate may include:
- Epidemiologist
- Health Education and Development Leader
- Health Promotion Specialist
- NGO Manager
- Nurse Leader/ Team Lead
- Public Health Adviser
- Public Health Researcher.
Why study public health online with the University of Melbourne?
Rising to meet this demand, the University of Melbourne sets itself apart with its world-class reputation, cutting-edge research and commitment to equipping students with knowledge and real-world skills to make immediate positive impact.
Set yourself apart with Australia’s #1 university
Ranked as Australia's #1 university (QS World University Rankings 2025) and part of the prestigious Group of Eight, the University of Melbourne is globally recognised for academic excellence. Whether you’re a seasoned professional looking to upskill or someone starting their public health career, a degree from the University of Melbourne gives you unmatched credibility in a competitive job market locally and internationally.
Pursue a degree with real-world impact
The online public health courses from the University of Melbourne are designed to align with both global priorities and Australia’s healthcare needs. You can choose from:
- Master of Public Health: A comprehensive course offering deep insights into public health theories and the latest advancements in public health practice to transform health outcomes in local, national and global communities. There are three elective streams available within the masters degree, general public health, health leadership and health economics
- Graduate Certificate in Public Health: A great option for those seeking new job opportunities, career progression, or are unable to commit to the masters degree but still want to explore best practice strategies to navigate public health challenges. The Graduate Certificate in Public Health also serves as a direct pathway to the Master of Public Health should you choose to pursue the masters at a later time.
Built on the expertise from leading academic staff, who bring a wealth of knowledge from the latest research and real-world insights, you'll learn to make evidence-based decisions that drive positive change in community health outcomes.
These courses equip you to navigate current challenges and opportunities in areas like:
- Preventative health
- Health equity
- Healthcare system transformation and improvements to deliver better outcomes.
Additionally, the online public health curriculum goes beyond technical skills by emphasising research-informed content delivered in collaboration with industry. This approach ensures you develop valuable soft skills such as leadership, collaboration and data-informed decision-making, making you a highly employable and well-rounded candidate capable of taking on senior employment opportunities.
Tailored learning with choice of elective streams
The University of Melbourne takes a customised approach to learning, so you can choose an area of focus that aligns best to your passions and career goals. Within the Master of Public Health, you have the choice of three elective streams. These are:
- General public health: With electives making up 40 per cent of the course, you can build a bespoke masters degree that aligns with your area of passion while developing a strong, all-encompassing foundation in public health practice
- Health leadership: With a strong emphasis on program development, in this elective stream you will gain the skills to lead teams in health organisations and effectively navigate the evolving public health landscape
- Health economics: Understand the critical role of economic evaluation to guiding smarter resource allocation, healthcare access improvement and growing healthcare demands, all while advocating for equitable and sustainable healthcare systems.
Flexible learning that puts you in control
Studying online doesn’t mean compromising on quality or connection. Here’s how the University of Melbourne ensures your success while studying online:
- 100% online delivery: Access your learning anytime, anywhere, helping you balance study with your personal and work commitments
- Six intakes per year: Studying online with the University of Melbourne means you don’t need to wait for traditional university semesters to get going. You can start at a time that suits you best
- Accelerated format: Complete your degree quickly with this focused approach where you study one subject at a time to help you deeply understand each topic
- Ongoing support: From dedicated students support and one-on-one career sessions to health, wellbeing and fitness resources, you’ll have all the help you need throughout your academic journey.
Network and build meaningful connections
One of the greatest benefits of studying with the University of Melbourne is joining a thriving, like-minded academic and professional community. You’ll engage in live sessions, group activities and discussion forums to collaborate with fellow students, professors and industry leaders.
The University also boasts a robust alumni network to connect you with experienced professionals worldwide. These connections can open doors to exciting career opportunities in the public health sector.
Shape the future of public health with the University of Melbourne
The field of public health is constantly evolving to tackle emerging challenges, from climate-related health risks to disparities in healthcare systems. By studying public health online with the University of Melbourne, you’ll gain the knowledge, expertise, and connections needed to rise to such challenges and lead innovative change.
Whether you’re advancing your career, transitioning from a different area, or pursuing your desire to make a real difference, the University of Melbourne has the public health course and support you need to succeed.
Discover how you can drive meaningful change in public health. Explore the online Master of Public Health from the University of Melbourne and reach out to our Online Education Advisers to learn how you can start making an impact on global health.
Resources
1Health workforce, World Health Organisation
2Employment Projections, Jobs and Skills Australia, Australian Government, 2024