Population and Global Health

The Master of Population and Global Health at the University of Melbourne offers students an in-depth, comprehensive education in the complexities of health challenges faced by populations around the world. This program is designed to equip future health professionals, researchers, policymakers, and scholars with the critical knowledge and practical skills necessary to address global health issues effectively. Through a multidisciplinary approach, students will explore the social, economic, environmental, and political determinants of health, gaining a nuanced understanding of how these factors influence health outcomes across diverse populations.

The curriculum covers essential topics such as epidemiology, health policy and management, health promotion, and disease prevention, with an emphasis on applying evidence-based solutions to real-world problems. Students will engage with contemporary global health issues including infectious diseases, non-communicable diseases, health inequalities, and the impacts of climate change on health. The program fosters a global perspective, encouraging students to analyze health disparities and develop strategies to improve health equity in both local and international contexts.

Practical experience is a core component of the degree, with opportunities for placements, internships, and research projects in collaboration with health organizations and communities. These experiences allow students to translate theoretical knowledge into actionable interventions, enhance their professional networks, and develop leadership skills suited for complex health environments. The program also provides advanced training in research methodologies, data analysis, and ethical considerations in global health research.

Graduates of the Master of Population and Global Health are well-prepared for careers in public health agencies, non-governmental organizations, international health bodies, research institutes, and government departments. They will possess the analytical skills to design and evaluate health programs, influence policy development, and advocate for vulnerable populations. The program’s flexible structure includes full-time and part-time options, enabling students to balance their studies with professional or personal commitments.

With distinguished faculty members who are experts in their fields, state-of-the-art facilities, and a vibrant academic community, the University of Melbourne provides an enriching environment for learning and discovery. This program is ideal for individuals committed to making a meaningful impact on global health and striving towards healthier, more equitable societies worldwide.

• Candidates enrol in a thesis subject for the duration of the degree.
• The normal period of candidature is 3 years for full-time candidates (part-time equivalent) with the possibility of up to 12 months extension.
• All candidates are required to complete a minimum of 12 months full-time research at the University in order to benefit from planning, conducting and writing up their research within a University community and environment.
• Normally the entire degree is undertaken at the University.
• A candidate will have appropriately experienced supervisor/s and an Advisory Committee who in consultation with the candidate, arranges a course of supervised research designed to suit the individual requirements and interests of the candidate.
• A candidate may be required to supplement their research program by attendance at, or enrolment in, additional subjects if considered necessary by the supervisor(s).
• All candidates are expected to attend departmental seminars over the period of their candidature.
• Academic progress is reviewed regularly throughout the degree.
• All candidates for the degree will be examined on the basis of their thesis which is examined externally. The normal length of a PhD thesis is between 80,000 and 100,000 words, exclusive of words in tables, maps, bibliographies and appendices.
• Candidates should refer to the University policy library and the Graduate Research Hub for further information regarding candidature, academic progress, ethics, thesis preparation and examination.
• To be eligible to submit a thesis for examination, students must be enrolled in their course for the minimum period of 24 months full-time equivalent.

1. In order to be considered for entry, applicants must have completed:

• a four-year bachelor degree in a relevant discipline which includes a substantial research component equivalent to at least 25% of one year of full-time study and have achieved a minimum weighted average of 80% or (University of Melbourne) equivalent;

or

• a masters degree in a relevant discipline which includes a substantial research component equivalent to at least 25% of one year of full-time study and achieved a minimum weighted average of 80% or (University of Melbourne) equivalent;

or

• a qualification and professional experience considered to be equivalent;

and

• a research proposal; and
• referee reports (except for applicants who have graduated from the University of Melbourne within the last 5 years); and
• the endorsement of a prospective supervisor.

Meeting these requirements does not guarantee selection.

2. In selecting applicants, the selection committee will consider applicants’:

• prior academic performance and, if relevant, professional qualifications;
• understanding of the research question to be explored;
• performance at an interview;
• motivation and capacity to complete the course in a timely manner;
• relevant prior research and/or professional experience; and
• the referee reports.

3. The selection committee may seek further information to clarify any aspect of an application in accordance with the Selection and Admission Policy.

4. The minimum English language requirements for this course are: IELTS Band 7

Scholarships

• Samuel Leon Bursary in Medicine
• RD Phillips Bursary
• H & E Johnston Scholarship
• Dr Neville Rothfield Medical Scholarship
• Denise O'Hara Scholarship
• Nick Christopher PhD Scholarship

The Master of Population and Global Health at the University of Melbourne is a comprehensive graduate program designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to address complex health issues affecting populations worldwide. This program focuses on understanding the social, economic, environmental, and political determinants of health, and how these factors influence disease patterns, health inequalities, and health systems across different regions. It aims to prepare graduates for careers in public health policy, research, and practice, with an emphasis on global health challenges such as infectious diseases, non-communicable diseases, health promotion, and health equity.

The curriculum combines theoretical understanding with practical application, offering coursework in epidemiology, biostatistics, health policy analysis, and research methods. Students also engage in specialized units that cover global health governance, human rights, and strategies for strengthening health systems. The program encourages critical thinking and innovative problem-solving, preparing graduates to contribute effectively to healthcare improvements and policy development in diverse contexts.

Students have opportunities to participate in research projects, internships, and collaborations with international health organizations, which enhance their practical skills and professional networks. The program is suitable for students with backgrounds in health sciences, social sciences, or related fields who aspire to careers impacting global health policies, programs, and systems.

Graduate attributes include analytical skills, cultural competence, ethical awareness, and the ability to communicate complex health issues effectively. The degree prepares students for roles in government agencies, non-governmental organizations, international health agencies, and academic institutions. The university’s strong emphasis on multidisciplinary approaches and real-world applications ensures that graduates are well-equipped to respond to current and future global health challenges creatively and effectively.