Public Health and Public Health (Extension)

The Bachelor of Public Health at UNSW Sydney is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to prepare students for impactful careers in the field of public health. This degree provides a strong foundation in the core disciplines that underpin public health practice, including epidemiology, biostatistics, health promotion, environmental health, health policy, and health management. Delivered by leading experts and practitioners, the program emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach to addressing complex health issues faced by populations locally and globally. Students will engage in rigorous coursework, practical projects, and internships that foster critical thinking, analytical skills, and evidence-based decision-making. The curriculum is structured to equip graduates with the knowledge required to develop and implement effective health interventions, analyze health data, and contribute meaningfully to policy development and health improvement initiatives. In addition to theoretical learning, students have opportunities for hands-on experience through collaboration with government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and healthcare providers. The program also offers specializations and electives that allow students to tailor their studies according to their interests, such as global health, Indigenous health, or health systems management. Being part of UNSW Sydney, a prestigious university renowned for its research excellence and strong industry links, ensures that graduates are well-prepared for diverse career paths. They can pursue roles in public health agencies, research institutions, healthcare organizations, policy development, and advocacy. The program also provides a pathway for postgraduate study, including Honours, Masters, and doctoral qualifications, further expanding professional opportunities. Graduates of the Bachelor of Public Health are equipped to make valuable contributions to improving health outcomes, promoting health equity, and addressing the social determinants of health. Committed to fostering a socially responsible and innovative workforce, UNSW’s public health program emphasizes ethical practice, lifelong learning, and the importance of diversity and inclusion in health care and policy.

The Bachelor of Public Health at UNSW Sydney is designed to equip students with essential knowledge and practical skills required to address complex health issues faced by communities worldwide. This comprehensive program offers a multidisciplinary approach, combining theoretical foundations with real-world applications, to prepare graduates for careers in health promotion, disease prevention, health policy, and health program management. The curriculum encompasses a wide range of subjects, including epidemiology, biostatistics, health systems, environmental health, global health, and social determinants of health. Students will engage in rigorous coursework that emphasizes critical thinking, data analysis, and evidence-based decision-making. Additionally, practical placements and internships are integral components of the program, providing students with invaluable hands-on experience working with health organizations, government agencies, and community groups. Through these opportunities, students learn to design, implement, and evaluate public health interventions tailored to diverse populations and settings. The program also fosters a global perspective, encouraging students to understand health challenges across different cultural and socioeconomic contexts. An extensive range of electives allows students to specialize or broaden their expertise in areas such as health policy, research methods, health communication, and environmental health. Graduates of the Bachelor of Public Health will be well-prepared to pursue further studies or careers in public health leadership, research, policy development, and health advocacy. UNSW Sydney’s state-of-the-art facilities, expert faculty, and strong connections to industry ensure students receive a high-quality education aligned with current public health standards and practices. By completing this program, students will be empowered to make meaningful contributions towards improving health outcomes and reducing health disparities locally and globally.

Minimum Requirements for the Bachelor of Public Health and Bachelor of Public Health (Extension) programs at UNSW Sydney include successful completion of Year 12 or equivalent with a competitive ATAR score. Applicants must meet English language proficiency standards, usually demonstrated through scores such as IELTS with a minimum overall band of 6.5, with no sub-score below 6.0, or equivalent in other recognized English language tests. The program emphasizes foundational knowledge in health sciences, social sciences, and research methods, requiring students to undertake core courses in epidemiology, biostatistics, environmental health, health policy, and health promotion. Students are expected to complete a specified number of credit points, typically around 144 units of credit for full-time study over three years, with the extension program offering an additional specialization or extended research component that may add an extra year to the standard duration, totaling approximately four years. Admission might also consider demonstrated interest or experience in health-related fields through personal statements, interviews, or prior relevant work or volunteering experience. The program promotes competencies in analytical thinking, community engagement, and the application of evidence-based practices in public health. Students in the extension pathway are usually required to undertake advanced coursework, including a comprehensive research project or thesis, to develop specialized expertise. To graduate, students must meet all academic and professional requirements, including completion of practical placements or internships if applicable. UNSW ensures that all students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and support services to facilitate their academic and professional development. Overall, the program aims to prepare graduates for careers in health policy, environmental health, epidemiology, health promotion, and research, aligning with national health priorities and global health challenges.

Funding for the Bachelor of Public Health at UNSW Sydney can be sourced from various avenues, including government support, scholarships, and student loans. Australian citizens and permanent residents are generally eligible for government-funded financial assistance such as HECS-HELP, which allows students to defer their tuition fees until they are earning a sufficient income. Additionally, students may access Commonwealth Scholarships that are based on academic merit, financial need, or specific criteria such as indigenous background or regional location. UNSW also offers a range of scholarships tailored to students pursuing public health or related fields; these scholarships can significantly offset tuition costs and sometimes include stipends for living expenses. Private funding options, such as education loans from banks or financial institutions, are also available for eligible students to cover tuition and associated costs, which are repayable once the student is earning above a certain income threshold. Furthermore, students are encouraged to seek financial aid through part-time work opportunities, including on-campus employment provided by the university, which can help cover living expenses. International students are generally responsible for paying the full tuition fees, which must be settled upfront or through fee payment plans available at the university. Other financial support mechanisms include external awards, sponsorships from health organizations, and potential funding from research grants if the student engages in research projects during their study. Tuition fees vary annually and are published on the university's official website; students are advised to confirm current rates and available financial support options well in advance of their enrollment. Overall, students are encouraged to explore all available funding options early to plan effectively for their studies.

The Bachelor of Public Health at UNSW Sydney is a comprehensive undergraduate degree designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to address complex health issues affecting populations worldwide. This program emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach to health, integrating disciplines such as epidemiology, health promotion, health policy, and environmental health. Students engage in rigorous coursework that covers foundational topics including biostatistics, research methods, global health, and health systems management, preparing them to analyze and develop strategies for improving public health outcomes. The program also offers practical learning opportunities through internships, projects, and collaborations with health organizations, providing real-world experience that enhances employability. In addition to core courses, students can tailor their studies by selecting electives aligned with their interests in areas such as mental health, Indigenous health, or health communication. The degree encourages students to develop critical thinking, data analysis, and communication skills vital for careers in healthcare policy, public health research, and health advocacy. UNSW’s strong connections with government agencies, non-profit organizations, and industry partners create pathways for internships and employment after graduation. The program also aims to foster a global perspective on health issues, preparing graduates to work in diverse cultural and policy contexts. Graduates of the Bachelor of Public Health are well-positioned to pursue further studies or enter the workforce as public health officers, policy analysts, health educators, or research assistants. The university continually updates the curriculum to reflect emerging public health challenges, including pandemics, climate change, and health inequities, ensuring students receive relevant and current education. Overall, the program’s flagship features include a robust theoretical foundation, practical application, and a networking environment that supports student growth and professional development in the health sector.