University
University of OtagoThis course is available
On-Campus
Level of Study
Postgraduate Certificate or Diploma
Next start date
Expected Jan 2026
Campus
Dunedin Campus
The Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health (DPH) is a broad-based qualification which is highly sought after by a range of employers. It is relevant and practical, with graduates being able to identify and understand public health issues, and depending on which optional papers are taken, gain the skills to analyse and use health data, design appropriate health promotion strategies, plan and evaluate public health interventions, work collaboratively with professionals and the community, appreciate resource allocation and cost issues in health and uphold ethical standards.
The DPH consists of four core papers, with a further four papers chosen from the schedule enabling the qualification to cover a broad range of public health topics. We expect that the majority of students will complete an unendorsed DPH, however there are three endorsed options for those with specific interest areas in epidemiology, health promotion, or social research methods.
For those who are planning to go on to a Master of Public Health (MPH), a research paper relevant to the intended methodological approach needs to be included as one of the optional four papers. This is in addition to the core epidemiology paper, PUBH 711 Principles of Epidemiology.
The DPH can be used as a stand-alone qualification, but equally you can use the papers from the Diploma to progress to the Master of Public Health (MPH). Note candidates for the MPH must have attained a good B average (73%) overall in their DPH.
View further information on postgraduate studies in Public Health.
Information for new applicantsThe course is open to those with a wide variety of backgrounds and qualifications. As a guide, a general requirement for entry into postgraduate public health courses is a good undergraduate degree, diploma, or professional qualification, which would normally equate to a B average overall.
Returning studentsThe structure of the Diploma in Public Health changed in 2015 with papers moving to 15 point offerings, taught in half semester terms. Please visit the Public Health website for more information.
Schedule of Endorsed Options Unendorsed OptionPUBH 711, PUBH 712, PUBH 713, PUBH 714 and four further PUBH papers to the value of 60 points. Endorsed Options Epidemiology PUBH 711, PUBH 712, PUBH 713, PUBH 714; three of PUBH 721, PUBH 725, PUBH 726, PUBH 732, and one further PUBH paper to the value of 15 points. Health Promotion PUBH 711, PUBH 712, PUBH 713, PUBH 714, PUBH 743 , PUBH 744, and two further PUBH papers to the value of 30 points. Social Research Methods PUBH 711,Disclaimer