Why study the Graduate Certificate in Public Health with UTS Online?
Above world standard for Excellence in Research in Australia for Public Health & Health Services1
Top 100 University Globally2
Top Performing Young University3
5 stars for excellence across 8 categories4
1ERA 4/5, 2024. 2QS World University Rankings, 2025. 3THE Young University Rankings, 2024. 4QS Stars Rating 2021–2024
Develop the foundations to influence public health
UTS Online's Graduate Certificate in Public Health is designed for professionals who are passionate about public health and want to explore the social, cultural and ethical perspectives of health to drive better outcomes across all levels of society.
Delivered 100% online, you will gain immediately applicable skills to make a greater impact in your current role and prepare for future health challenges. Tailor your studies with the option to progress into a Master of Public Health, and choose to major in data analytics, sub-major in leadership, or select from a range of advanced electives to transform your career goals.
Who is this course for?
The Graduate Certificate in Public Health is designed for professionals who are passionate about creating positive change for population and community health, and are looking to advance their skills to improve the quality of public health programs at a local, national or global level.
Students of this course have backgrounds in varying industries and may be specialists in fields such as:
- Nursing
- Psychology
- Optometry
- Sociology
- Physiotherapy
- Exercise science
- Biomedical science
- Data analytics
- Communication
See entry requirements under course information for more eligibility information.
What you will study
The UTS Online Graduate Certificate in Public Health comprises four online subjects (24 credit points (CP) in total). Upon successful completion you will have the opportunity to enrol into the Graduate Diploma in Public Health, and onto the Master of Public Health.
Complete all of the following subjects:
- Foundations in Public Health + Indigenous Public Health
- Social Perspectives in Public Health
- Fundamentals of Epidemiology
- Plus 6 credit points from the Master of Public Health core or other elective subjects.
Note: Most UTS Online subjects are valued at 6 credit points each. For detailed subject descriptions and further information, please download a course guide.
Flexible course options
The Graduate Certificate in Public Health is made up of 4 subjects (24 credit points (CP) in total).
Students who complete the Graduate Certificate in Public Health may qualify to advance to the Graduate Diploma in Public Health, and onto the Master of Public Health.
UTS Online also provides alternative Graduate Certificate specialisation pathways, offering the opportunity to study a Graduate Certificate in Public Health and Communicable Disease or a Graduate Certificate in Health Analytics.
Graduate Certificate
4 Subjects | 8 Months
Or continue studying
Graduate Diploma
+4 Subjects | 16 Months
Or continue studying
Master
+4 Subjects | 24 Months
Graduate with a Master's degree
For more information, download the course guide or speak to a Student Enrolment Advisor.
Learning outcomes
Develop and implement public health strategies
Gain foundational knowledge of public health frameworks, policies and practices. Develop the skills to analyse contemporary health issues and apply evidence-based approaches to improving population health.
Use data and research to inform public health practice
Learn to assess health risks, interpret epidemiological data and evaluate public health trends. Strengthen your ability to use research and data to inform health programs and policies.
Promote health equity and ethical practice
Develop the skills to advocate for culturally responsive, inclusive and ethical public health initiatives. Apply principles of social justice to address health inequalities and improve community wellbeing.
Collaborate to improve community and global health
Refine your communication and collaboration skills to engage with stakeholders in public health settings. Work effectively with healthcare providers, policymakers and community organisations to implement sustainable health solutions.
Course information
Applicants must have completed a UTS recognised bachelor’s degree, or an equivalent or higher qualification, or submitted other evidence of general and professional qualifications that demonstrates potential to pursue graduate studies.
Applicants who do not have an undergraduate degree but who have extensive relevant work experience in a healthcare or human services field may also be considered eligible.
Alternative admissions pathways may be available. Learn More
Eligibility for admission does not guarantee an offer of a place
Want to check your eligibility?
Not only do we have the right tools and support teams to help you – we have people who care about your success.
Career outcomes
The UTS Online Graduate Certificate in Public Health introduces foundational concepts in public health, equipping professionals with the skills to contribute to health improvement initiatives in various settings. This course is ideal for those looking to enhance their impact in health-related roles or pivot into the field of public health.
Upon completion, graduates can pursue roles such as:
- Public Health Assistant
- Health Promotion Officer (Entry-Level)
- Community Health Support Worker
- Policy Development Assistant
16.7%
Employment increase by 2033
The Health Care and Social Assistance sector's share of total employment in Australia is projected to increase from 15.2% in 2023 to 16.7% by 2033, indicating robust growth and demand for public health professionals.
(Jobs and Skills Australia)
950,000 +
New jobs in 5 Years
Total employment in Australia is projected to grow by around 950,000 people (6.6%) over the next five years, with significant contributions from the health sector, highlighting expanding opportunities for public health graduates.
(Jobs and Skills Australia)
High demand
for health promotion officers
Health Promotion Officers develop and implement strategies to improve public health outcomes. An estimated 5,100 HPOs are employed in Australia, with demand growing due to increasing community wellness challenges and a focus on preventative health.
(Jobs and Skills Australia)
Upcoming intakes
UTS Online courses have 6 intakes per year. The diagram below shows all upcoming intakes. Our next intake is highlighted below.
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Jan
2025 -
Mar
2025 -
May
2025 -
Jul
2025 -
Aug
2025 -
Oct
2025
Meet our Course Director
Dr. Daniel Demant is a dedicated public health researcher and educator with expertise in epidemiology, health equity and applied social sciences. His research focuses on addressing health disparities within LGBTQ+ communities and developing strategies for meaningful change. With extensive experience in curriculum development, Daniel has led postgraduate and undergraduate public health programs, driving innovation in teaching and learning. He serves as Chair of the UTS Medical Research Ethics Committee, ensuring the integrity of health-related research and is a board member of the Council of Academic Public Health Institutions Australasia, contributing to the advancement of public health education. Prior to academia, Daniel worked in the nonprofit health sector, developing award-winning health education programs in HIV prevention and substance use.
"The UTS Online Public Health courses are designed to empower you with the analytical and practical skills needed to tackle real-world health challenges. Our innovative curriculum bridges theory and practice, preparing you to drive ethical change and promote health equity in diverse communities."
Dr Daniel Demant
Course Director Master of Public Health, School of Public Health
Download a course guide
Download a course guide to explore detailed subject descriptions, entry requirements, pathway options and fee information.
Frequently asked questions
No, a background in healthcare is not required to enrol in the Graduate Certificate in Public Health. This program is open to professionals from various industries who are passionate about public health and wish to explore social, cultural and ethical perspectives to drive better health outcomes across all levels of society.
Yes, upon successful completion of the Graduate Certificate, you have the opportunity to enrol in the Graduate Diploma in Public Health and subsequently the Master of Public Health, allowing for further specialisation and advanced expertise.
At UTS Online, your success is our priority, and that doesn't change when you study remotely. We're committed to providing you with a comprehensive range of student support services, guiding you from enrolment right through to graduation.
As a UTS student, you'll enjoy access to an array of support services, including:
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Your own dedicated Student Success Advisor, available to answer any course-related questions you may have to keep you on track
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UTS Career Hub for work experience and networking opportunities
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Assignment writing and academic support from teachers & lecturers
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Public speaking and peer learning support
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Confidential medical and mental health services.
Connect with us to learn more about how we support your success while studying for a Graduate Certificate in Public Health at UTS Online.
Assignments in our subjects are authentic, relevant and often grounded in your personal clinical context. They vary according to the subject and include, but are not limited to clinical reports, posters, online quizzes and vivas (oral assessment), podcasts, recorded presentations, education tools, proposals, protocols and professional portfolios. You will not be required to complete exams or group assignments to graduate the Graduate Certificate in Public Health.
When studying the Graduate Certificate in Public Health, your online study experience includes:
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Interactive modules focused on foundational public health concepts
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Tools for critical analysis of health data and policies
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Flexible schedules and accessible resources for working professionals
Here’s a video example showcasing key features of our online learning platform, including tools designed to enhance your study experience.
For practical tips on balancing your studies with work and life, click here to learn how to achieve your goals. Remember, our team is just an email or call away to support you every step of the way.