Public Health
Introduction
Public Health is the study of human health and wellbeing, specifically in how we promote health within populations and protect them from risks.
Overview
Public Health
What will my study involve?
- Gain a strong foundation in health sciences, with detailed knowledge in public health, including impact and ethics.
- Take a look at how health programmes are delivered through an internship course in your final year.
- On successful completion of your degree, you will meet the Aotearoa New Zealand competencies for public health, and health promotion (endorsed by Rūnanga Whakapiki Ake i te Hauora o Aotearoa | Health Promotion Forum of New Zealand).
Public Health
Courses
Public Health major
Note: if you started your major before 2026, your course requirements will be different to those listed below. See the UC Calendar archive for the year you started your degree.
For the major in the Bachelor of Health, complete the following courses:
100-level
200-level
- HLTH213 Health Systems and Policy
- HLTH214 Environmental and Occupational Health
- GEOG205 Introduction to Geographic Information Systems OR MAOR270 Te Ao Hauroa Tangata: Māori Health Perspectives
300-level
Plus 30 points of courses chosen from:
- GEOG325 Health, Wellbeing and Environment
- HLTH306 Te Kete Hauora - Māori Health Knowledge and Understandings/Internship
- HLTH317 Behaviour Change in Nutrition and Physical Activity
Public Health minor
For the minor in the Bachelor of Arts, Commerce, Digital Screen, Health, Product Design, Psychological Science, Science, Social and Environmental Sustainability, Sport, or Youth and Community Leadership, complete the following courses:
- Choose 5 courses listed in the major, with at least 45 points above 100-level
Public Health
Career opportunities
This subject prepares you with the skills needed to work in the public health sector or community development, and be part of multidisciplinary teams.
Career pathways could include:
- Public health advisor
- National public health service
- Māori and Pacific health organisations
- Public health analyst.
Find out more about what you can do with a degree in Health.
