Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health
- Degree Structure - Start In
- Semester 1 (February)
120
Overview
Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health
Introduction
The Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health (PGDipPH) is designed for graduates looking to broaden or deepen their public health knowledge and practical skills.
You will develop competencies across core areas of public health, including epidemiology, health systems, Mori and Pacific health, and health promotion. With a strong focus on equity and Te Tiriti o Waitangi, the programme prepares you to contribute meaningfully to the public health workforce and address health challenges in Aotearoa and beyond.
The PGDipPH can be completed as a standalone qualification or used as a pathway into the 180-point Master of Public Health.
Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health
Entry requirements
To enrol in the Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health, you will need to have a bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in an area relevant to public health eg, health sciences, psychology, data science, geography, politics, sociology, etc. You will also need to have at least a B Grade Average in your 300-level courses.
If English is not your first language, you are also required to meet UC's English language requirements. If you need help meeting these requirements, or would like to practise your English skills before studying, UC offers English for Academic Purposes (EAP) language programmes.
For the full entry requirements, use the .
How to apply
You can apply online at .
See Admission and enrolment for all information on enrolling at UC.
Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health
How do I plan my diploma?
ThePGDipPH is a 120-point qualification that can be completed in 1 year full-time, or up to 4 years part-time.
Starting in February each year, the programme includes four core courses in public health, and a selection of elective courses from wider topics.
You will gain a foundational understanding of public health theory and practice and have the flexibility to tailor your learning to areas of interest.
These courses combine in-person block teaching with online learning to support those in the workforce.
Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health
Subjects and courses
These courses align with national and international public health competencies and standards.
Semester 1
- PUBH420 Public Health Essentials: Building Blocks for Impact
- PUBH422 Health Systems in Action: Policy, Innovation and Equity
- Two courses chosen from
Semester 2
- PUBH421 Hauora Mori
- HLTH470 Qualitative Research Methods for Health
- PUBH424 Social and Political Epidemiology OR HLTH460 Epidemiology and Critical Appraisal
- One course chosen from
You may choose electives from other approved postgraduate offerings in the Faculty of Health, subject to availability and academic approval.
Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health
Further study
UC also offers a Master of Public Health which includes the same courses as the Diploma, plus an additional semester for practical placements.
You may choose to transfer your completed courses in the Diploma to the Master's, with approval.
Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health
Career ready
Graduates will be prepared for public health roles across a variety of sectors, including:
- Local and central government (Ministry of Health, Te Whatu Ora, public health agencies)
- Non-governmental organisations (NGOs)
- Primary Healthcare Organisations (PHOs)
- Community-based health services
- Research and policy advisory roles.
The PGDipPH equips you with practical and theoretical skills to support equitable, evidence-based public health action.
