Duration
Study one unit across a seven-week study period, allowing you to complete your Graduate Certificate in Public Health within 8 months. It's recommended that you spend approximately 20 hours per week on your postgraduate study. Our 100% online Graduate Certificate in Public Health program allows you to study when it suits you and you are not required to be online at a specific time.
Fees
$12,800 for all 4 units. FEE-HELP is a Commonwealth Government loan scheme that helps eligible full-fee paying students pay all or part of their tuition fees. FEE-HELP is available for this program.
Units
Study one unit each seven-week study period with our multi-award-winning Block Model. Assessments are delivered at the same time each study period, allowing for deep and focused learning.
Study intakes
There are six study periods each year, allowing you to begin your Graduate Certificate at the start of any study period. You will study one unit at a time over the seven-week study period. If required, you are able to skip a study period.
July, Aug, Oct
CSP Available
A Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) is subsidised by the Australian Government, reducing your total tuition fees from $12,800 (full fee) to $2,368. CSPs are limited and subject to availability. Eligible students may be able to defer their student contribution through a HECS-HELP loan.
Why study Graduate Certificate in Public Health Online?
Award-winning VU Block Model®
Our postgraduate online Block Model has won consecutive LearnX Live! Awards for ‘Best Online Learning Model’. With VU Online you can have a consistent, manageable and connected online learning experience.
No exams or textbooks to purchase
The online units have been designed with a student-centred approach that spans across the overarching learning outcomes to the engaging activities and self-determined assessments.
Support 7 days a week and in the evenings
Get the support you need, when you need it, during your course. Our support network has a single focus on ensuring you are entirely supported to succeed.
CAPHIA member and industry-aligned
VU is a member of the Council of Academic Public Health Institutions Australasia (CAPHIA). This course is designed using the CAPHIA Foundation Competencies, helping graduates develop the core capabilities to analyse, apply evidence, and respond to real-world public health challenges.
Save up to 75% on your fees*
You may be eligible for a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) for selected subjects in this course.
*CSP is available to new, eligible students who enrol in and commence selected courses in 2027. Limited places available.
Overview
The Graduate Certificate in Public Health course equips graduates with the foundational knowledge and skills to pursue a career in public health practice. The course integrates the biological basis of health with population-based intervention and policy and in doing so, covers dimensions of the social, cultural, economic and political aspects of health.
Designed for practitioners who may already be employed in the field of public health, as well as recent graduates, this course provides the building blocks in public health in practice, epidemiology and biostatistics. It also provides a pathway, upon successful completion, to continue on to the Master of Public Health.
Ready to make a difference in the world of public health? VU's online Graduate Certificate in Public Health can help you achieve your goals.
Our program equips you with the expertise and practical skills to tackle today's most pressing public health challenges.
From epidemiology and biostatistics to health policy and environmental health, our curriculum covers a range of essential topics.
With a graduate certificate in public health from VU, you can unlock new career opportunities and make a positive impact on global health.
- Public Health Officer
- Health Promotion Manager
- Health Promotion General Manager
- Public Health Project Manager
- Senior Epidemiologist
- Epidemiology Consultant
- Policy Manager
- Preventative Health Manager
What you will study
This course covers four core areas of public health. Each unit of study lasts for seven weeks.
This unit is designed to introduce students to the main theories, principles and values of public health illustrated by selected major topics in nutrition and in active living from a global perspective. It investigates policy, systematic and multi-discipline public health approaches as a global and local effort to address contemporary health challenges.
The origins and evolution of public health and major global achievements in public health and their impact on the health of populations are explored. The role and interface of political, cultural, social, behavioural and environmental determinants of health of populations informs critique and discussion throughout the unit.
View unit page
The disciplines of Epidemiology and Biostatistics provide the foundation for designing studies to better understand the distribution of exposures and outcomes among specific population groups. In this unit, students are introduced to the basic principles, concepts of descriptive epidemiology and related biostatistics and how to use software to perform analytical research. Students will learn and practice how observational data is collected and analysed using statistical methods and communicated to a variety of audiences. These skills will enable students to evaluate existing epidemiological studies, and undertake basic epidemiological analysis using biostatistical approaches.
View unit page
This unit explores how public health theories, principles and values have informed the practice of public health with a focus on program planning for health promotion. The origins and purpose of health promotion and the theories which inform health promotion practice are examined along with the potential of health promotion to positively influence the determinants of health and reduce health inequalities. Students will gain skills in a range of practical approaches and methods for promoting health. Students will use a project management cycle to assess needs, set priorities for action and plan and manage interventions that promote health in populations. Theoretical aspects of the unit will be reinforced through their application to local, national and global issues.
View unit page
This unit examines the contribution of the social sciences to understanding and improving public health. The influence of culture and society on beliefs, attitudes and behaviours around health and how these shape disease risk and health outcomes is critically appraised. Students will explore the complex relationships between gender, culture and health inequalities. The efficacy of policies and strategies to address such inequalities will be evaluated. Concepts such as cultural competence, cultural safety and cultural humility as they relate to public health practice will be examined. Students will evaluate effective communication strategies, for public health practice when working with diverse communities.
View unit page
Entry requirements
When you apply to study with VU, we’ll take into consideration your prior study, work experience and current skills. If eligible, you can also apply for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), so you can make your next career move even sooner.
- Completed an Australian Bachelor degree (or equivalent) in any discipline; OR
- 5 years of approved work experience
Fees & FEE-HELP
A Graduate Certificate in Public Health from VU Online costs $3,200 per unit*, taking the total for 4 units to $12,800*.
This depends on the number of units you study and whether you are eligible for Advanced Standing, which is assessed after you submit your application.
10% discount for alumni
If you’ve previously completed a qualification with us (and didn't apply through an agent), you may be eligible for a 10% discount.
Note that you may be eligible for the Australian Government’s loan scheme, FEE-HELP. The loans are available to assist eligible full-fee paying students with the cost of a university program. It can be used for all or part of the tuition. To determine your eligibility, visit the FEE-HELP website.
*2027 student fees are shown and are subject to change.
For more information on fees and student support, download a brochure.
Want to learn more about this course?
What our students say
The Master of Public Health prepared me for a meaningful career by giving me a strong foundation in a variety of public health areas. The
support and encouragement I received from my academics enabled me to enter the workforce with total confidence in my knowledge and abilities.
What our students say
I am receiving a lot of support from my facilitators and my Student Success Advisor, who boosts my confidence and self-esteem.
What our students say
It was personally satisfying connecting and collaborating with a range of industry professionals. Many have become valuable work contacts, some even lifelong friends and career mentors.
What our students say
The flexibility, relevance and opportunity that VU Online brings to higher education are testaments to excellence in teaching and learning.
Frequently asked questions
Students will need to use SPSS while studying this degree. Free access to this software will be provided by VU Online.
Our Master of Public Health allows you to choose from one of two specialisations. The Health Promotion specialisation allows you to explore how effective health promotion works. The Global Health leadership specialisation empowers you to lead responses to public health challenges in an increasingly globalised world.
You are not required to have a background in health to apply for our Master of Public Health. To apply, you will need an Australian bachelor degree (or equivalent) in any discipline or an Australian graduate diploma (or equivalent) in a similar discipline. Applicants without an undergraduate degree may be able to gain entry to our Graduate Certificate in Public Health based on approved work experience and use that as a pathway to the master's degree.
No, our Master of Public Health does not require placements or in-person assessments.
Roles in public health are diverse and in high demand. Before the Covid-19 pandemic, Australian government data showed that health care and social assistance was Australia's fastest-growing industry, projected to add another 250,000 jobs by 2023. You can learn more about reasons to study public health on our blog.
A graduate certificate can be enough for professionals seeking to upskill, specialise, or gain targeted knowledge in a specific area without committing to a full master’s degree. It provides postgraduate-level learning and is often recognised by employers as evidence of advanced knowledge and professional capability. However, for those aiming for senior leadership, research, or highly specialised roles, further study such as a master’s degree may be required.
The Graduate Certificate in Public Health at VU Online equips students with practical and theoretical knowledge in public health, offering a flexible way to gain a recognised public health certificate while enhancing career prospects.
A graduate certificate is a short, focused postgraduate qualification designed to provide advanced knowledge in a specific area of study, usually over 6–12 months part–time.
In contrast, a postgraduate degree, such as a master’s, offers a more comprehensive learning experience, covering a broader curriculum, research components, and advanced practice skills.
The Graduate Certificate in Public Health at Victoria University Online provides foundational public health knowledge and practical skills, and can also serve as a stepping stone into further postgraduate study, such as the Master of Public Health.
The “best” public health program depends on your career goals, learning preferences, and professional focus. Strong programs are typically accredited, delivered by experienced academics and practitioners, and provide practical experience alongside theoretical learning. Flexibility, online access, and recognised pathways into professional or research roles are also important factors to consider.
VU Online offers the Graduate Certificate in Public Health, which provides a high-quality, flexible public health learning experience. It equips students with the skills and knowledge needed for practical application in government, non-profit, and healthcare sectors, making it a competitive option for postgraduate public health study.
Still have questions?
Our Student Enrolment Advisors are just a click away. They can answer any questions you have about this course or VU Online.
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Postgraduate study can boost your earnings, broaden your career opportunities and increase your potential for promotion.
Victoria University (VU) Online offers a suite of health qualifications that you can complete 100% online with our unique and award-winning study model.
Good health is the foundation of strong, thriving communities. When people are healthy, they can work, learn and live to their full potential, benefiting everyone around them.
