Modern teaching facilities at ECU's Joondalup Campus.
Master of Public Health graduate Asma Sheriff at ECU's Joondalup Campus.
Until we experienced a global pandemic, public health wasn't a particularly well-known area or career option. But public health graduates have been fulfilling many crucial roles in communities for some time.
They've been making a positive impact on others, supporting community development, fostering ethical practice and connecting people with place, planet and purpose.
Public health professionals help to shape and develop solutions for critical global challenges, such as nutrition and food security, mental health and addiction, and crisis management, including climate change-induced floods and fires.
A well-rounded degree
Asma's master's degree not only equipped her with comprehensive knowledge of public health issues including law and ethics, and communicable diseases, but also other contemporary health issues such as domestic violence, injury, poverty, and planetary health.
The Master of Public Health course covers topical issues — such as ageing populations, drugs and alcohol, food supply security, nutrition, and more — applicable not only to Australia but across the world.
On top of that, the course also examines community development and sustainable development practices to tackle new public health challenges arising from globalisation and climate impacts.
Asma's lecturers were heavily invested in public health, many of them having worked with the Government of Western Australia's Department of Health.
"This brought many real-life examples and experiences to complement the course content," explains Asma.
Preparing for employment
Through her core units, Asma also gained skills to help her find employment, such as leadership in health, personal brand development and career transitions.
The elective units in the course also allowed her to specialise in study areas of personal interest. She could diversify, grow and challenge herself during her two-year degree.
Today, Asma is confident that she has the necessary knowledge and skill set to pursue a wide range of public health careers.
"Having completed my postgraduate degree, I have a diverse skill set that enables me to apply for multiple job positions ranging from occupational health officer to epidemiologist, health promotion officer and even researcher," she says.
Build your own foundation
If this article has piqued your interest in the increasingly important field of public health, you should explore ECU's range of public health courses.
