The Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health is a New Zealand Qualifications Framework (NZQF) Level 8 qualification worth 120 points. It enables students to gain advanced knowledge of public health principles, epidemiology, health promotion, policy development, health systems, and community health.

The programme is suitable for graduates from health and related disciplines as well as professionals wishing to strengthen their expertise in population health, health equity, disease prevention, and health policy. It provides both theoretical knowledge and practical skills applicable in New Zealand and international public health settings.

Why Study the Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health at AUT?

• Gain advanced knowledge of public health practice and policy.
• Develop skills in epidemiology, population health, and health promotion.
• Learn from experienced public health academics and researchers.
• Study contemporary issues affecting local and global health.
• Flexible study options suitable for working professionals.
• Strengthen analytical, research, and leadership capabilities.
• Prepare for senior roles across government, healthcare, NGOs, and international organisations.
• Provides a direct pathway to the Master of Public Health.

Programme Structure

Students complete 120 points through a combination of compulsory and elective courses.

Core Courses

Students typically study advanced public health papers such as:

• Principles of Public Health
• Social Epidemiology
• Public Health Policy and Systems
• Hauora M?ori Development

Elective Courses

Students complete additional approved postgraduate courses to total 120 points, selecting from areas such as:

• Health Promotion
• Epidemiology
• Health Research
• Community Health
• Health Leadership
• Public Health Practice
• Population Health
• M?ori Health
• Health Systems
• Global Health

Subjects / Topics Covered

Students develop knowledge in:

• Public Health Principles
• Population Health
• Social Epidemiology
• Health Promotion
• Public Health Policy
• Health Systems
• Community Development
• M?ori Health
• Health Equity
• Disease Prevention
• Evidence-Based Practice
• Research Methods
• Global Public Health

Disciplines / Areas of Specialisation

Students develop expertise in:

• Public Health
• Population Health
• Health Promotion
• Epidemiology
• Community Health
• M?ori Health
• Health Policy
• Health Systems
• Global Health
• Public Health Research

Programme Highlights

• NZQF Level 8 qualification.
• Flexible one-year postgraduate programme.
• Strong emphasis on public health leadership and evidence-based practice.
• Taught by experienced public health academics.
• Covers current public health issues relevant to New Zealand and internationally.
• Flexible learning options suitable for working professionals.
• Excellent pathway to the Master of Public Health.
• Focus on improving health outcomes and reducing health inequities.

Career Outcomes

Graduates may pursue careers including:

• Public Health Advisor
• Health Promotion Specialist
• Community Health Coordinator
• Population Health Analyst
• Public Health Programme Manager
• Health Policy Advisor
• Epidemiology Officer
• Health Research Officer
• Government Health Advisor
• NGO Programme Coordinator
• International Public Health Consultant

Graduates commonly work in:

• Government health agencies
• Public health units
• Hospitals
• District and community health organisations
• Non-government organisations (NGOs)
• International health organisations
• Research institutions

Visa Requirements

International students studying full-time generally require a New Zealand Student Visa.

Typical requirements include:

• Offer of Place from AUT.
• Valid passport.
• Payment of tuition fees (where applicable).
• Evidence of sufficient funds for tuition and living expenses.
• Proof of English language proficiency.
• Medical examination and chest X-ray (if required).
• Police clearance certificate (if applicable).
• Approved medical and travel insurance.
• Compliance with Immigration New Zealand student visa conditions throughout the programme.

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

• Programme Code: AK3806.
• Qualification Level: NZQF Level 8.
• Credits: 120 points.
• Duration: 1 year full-time or part-time available.
• Campus: Mainly South Campus, with selected courses offered at City and North Campuses.
• Study Mode: Flexible and blended learning.
• Intakes: 22 February 2027 and 12 July 2027.
• The programme provides direct progression to the Master of Public Health.
• Individual course availability and timetable may vary between semesters.