Master of Spatial Analysis for Public Health
MSAPH
Duration
12–18 months full-time
Entry times
February (Semester 1)
Scholarships
Pathways
Pathways include:
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Download Brochure
Duration
12–18 months full-time
Entry times
February (Semester 1)
Scholarships
Pathways
Pathways include:
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Download Brochure
Overview
The Master of Spatial Analysis for Public Health (MSAPH) combines expertise on public health issues with GIS technologies. Spatial health data is fundamental to assess hazards from environmental exposure, and the impact of health intervention towards the well-being of communities.
Geospatial analysts can use spatial data to determine important health demographics such as disease causation and spread prevention, disaster risk factors, genetic disease likelihood, physical and mental behavioural trends, and economic affect. These issues are on the rise and experts are needed globally.
- UC has the top ranked research department in Aotearoa New Zealand for ‘other health studies’ (the most recent Tertiary Education Commission 2012 PBRF Assessment).
- UC is ranked in the top 100 universities in the world for Geography, and in the top 200 for Computer Science and Information Systems (QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2018).
- The only programme of its kind in Australasia.
- UC hosts the GeoHealth Laboratory | Te Tai Whenua o te Hauora, and UC has extensive research strengths and strategic partnerships in the field of geospatial technology, such as the Geospatial Research Institute | Toi Hangarau.
- Scholarships for students in this Master’s will be available through GeoHealth Laboratory | Te Tai Whenua o te Hauora and the Ministry of Health | Manatū Hauora.
- Geospatial science, particularly from a public health focus, is recognised on Immigration NZ’s current Long-Term Skill Shortage List.
Normally the minimum requirement is a three-year bachelor’s degree from an Aotearoa New Zealand university, or a qualification or combination of qualifications considered to be equivalent. If you gained your qualifications overseas, these will need to be assessed to make sure they are of an equivalent standard.
You are also required to meet UC's English language requirements.
Specific entry requirements
Students should have achieved at least a B grade average in 300-level courses in their undergraduate degree.
Some basic previous experience in statistics, programming, and/or GIS is an advantage.
For the full entry requirements see the Regulations for the Master of Spatial Analysis for Public Health or use the admission requirements checker.
How to apply
You can apply online at MyUC. Find out more about how to apply for graduate and postgraduate qualifications.
The MSAPH contains 180 points of coursework, including a 60-point community project.
The Master’s can be completed in 12–18 months full-time, and 2–3 years part-time.
The MSAPH includes seven compulsory courses, and a project over the summer at a workplace or with direct relevance to a community.
Compulsory courses
Project
- GEOG 694 Community or Workplace Based Project (60 points)
Students may go onto Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) studies in a large variety of related subjects, for example Geography.
Graduates with geospatial science and health analytical skills will find themselves well-suited to work as spatial analysts, health policy makers, GIS software developers, environmental health officers, statisticians, and administrators in health research groups, DHBs, health ministries, and other public health sector organisations.
Useful information:
- Read what other UC postgraduate students have gone on to achieve in their studies and careers in our student and graduate profiles.
- Our Careers, Internships & Employment team can help you to achieve the career you want, connect with employers or find a job.
- For research into career destinations by qualification, visit the Universities New Zealand website.
- Find out more about what you can do with a degree from UC.
- Come along to an upcoming information event for prospective postgraduate students.
See Tuition Fee Structure for more information
Contact us
For full requirements see the Regulations for the Master of Spatial Analysis for Public Health.
For study planning help contact the College of Science:
College of Science | Te Rāngai Pūtaiao
University of Canterbury | Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha
Private Bag 4800
Christchurch 8140
New Zealand
Phone +64 3 369 4141
Email collegeofscience@canterbury.ac.nz