The program provides the opportunity to develop skills and acquire knowledge essential for the effective practice of public health.

Graduates of the program should be able to determine the nature of community health problems and initiate steps to define and then alleviate them, and bring together the various services available for relief of these problems. One of the major aims of the program is to promote a proactive role by public health professionals with regard to the co-ordination of relevant community resources.

The course is offered in both distance and face-to-face modes so students can choose the mode that best suits their needs. Note that international students on student visas must comply with the requirements of their visa with respect to face-to-face teaching.  

Course completion requirements

The program normally involves one year of full-time or two years of part-time coursework, like the MPH, but it requires less study and the entry requirements are lower. To qualify for the Graduate Diploma in Public Health, students must undertake 24 credit points of core compulsory coursework providing basic health knowledge and skills in epidemiology, biostatistics, qualitative research methods, health promotion, and public health, and 12 credit points of MPH elective coursework allowing students to select units appropriate to their career interests. In general, core compulsory units of study are scheduled in semester 1 and electives in semester 2 of each year. In general, full-time students attend classes during the day in Semester 1, while classes for part-time students are scheduled on two evenings per week. In semester 2 attendance times depend on the elective units selected. Many units of study are available in distance mode - please consult the School of Public Health Website for more information. Assessment methods vary from unit to unit and include assignments, class exercises and, for some core units, examinations. The Graduate Diploma is articulated with the Master of Public Health. Students who commence the Graduate Diploma may be able to upgrade to the MPH on successful completion of the first 24 credit points.

On campus attendance pattern

Full time, Part time

End qualification

Graduate Diploma

Articulation courses

M.P.H. (KC052)

Course level

Postgraduate Diploma

Handbook website link

http://www.usyd.edu.au/handbooks/medicine/00_deansmessage.shtml