Public health is a broad area which can be generally characterised as being concerned with improving health and wellbeing by carrying out actions that will have an impact at a population or 'whole of community' level. Current Australian priorities for public health are to reduce health disparities between different population groups and to positively influence social, economic, physical and biological factors that play a role in determining overall health outcomes.
 
Public health practitioners are health professionals who have the skills required to help individuals and communities to have greater control over their health and wellbeing and to influence organisational and political environments in ways that lead to better health for all.
 
The Master of Public Health by coursework is recognised nationally and internationally as the appropriate qualification for health professionals seeking to work in the public health domain. ECU's Master of Public Health provides students with an opportunity to develop competencies that have been widely endorsed as being appropriate for MPH graduates working within Australia and overseas. 

A relevant undergraduate degree or relevant postgraduate qualification.

The Master of Public Health by coursework consists of 12 units (240 credit points). 

Nine core units in the MPH program have been selected to enable students to develop knowledge and skills in areas that are widely accepted as being key competencies for MPH graduates. Initially students must complete the first set of six core units (120 credit points). The second set of 3 core units provide research training (60 credit points). Students also need to complete 3 elective units (60 credit points).

Students are strongly encouraged to complete the six core units first, which will allow for early exit with a graduate Certificate (60 credit points) or a graduate Diploma (120 credit points) in Public Health. Students should be aware that some units may not be available in both semesters.