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MPH5313 · Foundations of public health

Official Handbook

2026 Handbook6 credit pointsLevel 5Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine

Last checked: 23 Aug 2026 UTC

Overview

This unit will examine foundational aspects of public health, and explore contemporary challenges facing public health both nationally and Internationally. You will be introduced to strategies and approaches including evidence-based practice, health promotion and health policy, as well as key principles guiding public health practice. You will apply this knowledge to critically appraise initiatives to address complex health issues from a public health perspective.

Areas of study: Public health

Offerings

CampusTeaching periodMode
Monash OnlineTeaching period 6Monash Online (MO)

Assessment

The Handbook does not list a final examination among the assessment items. That is not a guarantee there is none.

#AssessmentTypeWeightHurdle
1Written reflections (2,400 words)Written40%
2Briefing paper (1,800 words)Written30%
3Policy position statement (1,800 words)Written30%

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

prohibitions

  • MPH5288 — Public health fundamentals

Learning outcomes

  1. Describe and integrate the basic principles and tools of public health practice
  2. Evaluate a range of behavioural, social and cultural, environmental and political determinants of health
  3. Identify and appraise methods and application of disease prevention and control at a population level
  4. Define the principles of evidence-based practice and assess their implementation across public health initiatives
  5. Evaluate and adapt a range of approaches and strategies involved in public health including health promotion and health policy, and;
  6. Analyse and articulate contemporary and emerging challenges in public health.

Workload

24 hours per week including directed and self-directed learning (including any asynchronous and synchronous tasks, prescribed activities and independent work).

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