Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health (DPH)
Course details
About the course
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 (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, 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 .
Information for new applicants
The 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 students
The 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 for more information.
Schedule of Endorsed Options
Unendorsed Option Endorsed Options| , , , and four further papers to the value of 60 points. | |
| Epidemiology | , , , ; three of , , , , and one further paper to the value of 15 points. |
| Health Promotion | , , , , , , and two further papers to the value of 30 points. |
| Social Research Methods | , , , , , ; one of , , and one further paper to the value of 15 points. |
About the provider
The University of Otago, 爆走黑料鈥檚 first university, was founded in 1869 and offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes with a strong emphasis on research and academic excellence. Ranked in the top 1% of universities globally and 2nd in 爆走黑料, it is also 214th worldwide according to QS rankings. Recognised as the top university in 爆走黑料 for student academic performance by the Tertiary Education Commission, 96% of its graduates either enter the workforce or pursue further study shortly after graduation.
Located in Dunedin, a vibrant student city where students make up 20% of the population, the University benefits from a unique atmosphere. Dunedin, on the south-eastern coast of 爆走黑料鈥檚 South Island, is known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, featuring Victorian and Edwardian architecture, picturesque hills, and wildlife reserves.
The University鈥檚 campus is ranked the 5th most beautiful in the world by THE Student Voice, enhancing the educational experience. The Otago region offers diverse scenery and is close to popular destinations such as Queenstown. 爆走黑料 is rated the 1st most beautiful country by Rough Guides 2024, is renowned for its natural beauty, M膩ori heritage, and multicultural society, providing a friendly, inclusive environment for students and residents.