Master of Public Health/Social Change – Newcastle

Master's Degree Public Health Full Time

Master of Public Health/Master of Social Change and Development

at University of Newcastle · Newcastle, New South Wales

CRICOS course code

113784A

CRICOS provider code

00109J

This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students. Verify it yourself at cricos.education.gov.au before paying any fee.

Duration

2 years

Tuition (whole course)

A$83,230 total

Per year

A$41,615/yr

Intake

Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul)

About this program

The Master of Public Health/Master of Social Change and Development at the University of Newcastle is a combined degree designed to prepare graduates for leadership roles tackling contemporary health and societal challenges. This integrated programme develops expertise in public health practice, including health promotion, epidemiology, policy development, and research, together with specialised skills in social change, international development, and community engagement.

Across two years of full-time study, students complete a coordinated sequence of units of study, accruing credit points as per Australian postgraduate qualification standards. The curriculum is structured around semesters and typically includes prescribed core units, electives, and a capstone project, which may involve research or practical placements. Work-integrated learning is emphasised, preparing graduates to translate theory into practice within real-world community or organisational settings.

Throughout the course, students gain analytical, program design, evaluation, advocacy, and stakeholder engagement skills. This degree suits individuals wishing to advance their careers in public health or development, or those seeking to work at the intersection of health and social justice, both in Australia and internationally. It is ideal for professionals from diverse backgrounds who aspire to effect meaningful change in communities through policy, practice, and research.

Delivered at a public higher education institution in Newcastle, this programme benefits from strong industry and research links and is shaped by the needs of the Australian public health and community sectors. International students are expected to demonstrate English proficiency (IELTS 6.0–6.5 overall or equivalent), and may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study. Graduates can apply for post-study work rights under the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485), subject to government requirements. Always confirm details on the official course page.

Entry requirements

English: International applicants must evidence English proficiency. IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common undergraduate and coursework-postgraduate standard, rising to 7.0–7.5 for teaching, nursing, medicine, law and social work. TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and the university’s own English programmes are accepted as equivalents; the Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa itself.

International students: Registered on CRICOS for international students. A Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this course supports a Student visa (subclass 500) application; Overseas Student Health Cover is required for the full duration.

Career outcomes

Public Health Project Manager in Australian health departments and NGOs
Community Development Officer within local government or not-for-profit organisations
International Development Practitioner in aid agencies operating in Australia and the Asia-Pacific
Health Promotion Coordinator
Policy Advisor in government or advocacy organisations
Social Researcher supporting public health initiatives
Program Evaluator for community services

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Master of Public Health/Master of Social Change and Development at University of Newcastle?

It typically takes 2 years, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$83,230 total. Fees change yearly, confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Public Health Project Manager in Australian health departments and NGOsCommunity Development Officer within local government or not-for-profit organisationsInternational Development Practitioner in aid agencies operating in Australia and the Asia-PacificHealth Promotion Coordinat...

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