2017 Prospectus

Public Health
Postgraduate
Programmes
University of Otago, Wellington
University of Otago, Christchurch
University of Otago, Dunedin

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:

Wellington Campus Christchurch Campus Dunedin Campus

Department of Public Health Department of Population Health Department of Preventive & Social Medicine
Mein Street, Wellington South 34 Gloucester Street, Christchurch Adams Building, 18 Frederick Street, Dunedin
PO Box 7343, Wellington South 6242, NZ PO Box 4345, Christchurch 8140, NZ PO Box 56, Dunedin 9054, NZ
+64 4 918 6040 +64 3 364 3602 +64 3 479 7205
publichealth.uow@otago.ac.nz publichealth.uoc@otago.ac.nz postgrad.publichealthdunedin@otago.ac.nz

otago.ac.nz/publichealth
Contents
Welcome 1

Study Public Health 2

Career Opportunities 2

Applying for Entry 4

Qualifications in Public Health 5

Postgraduate Certificate in Public Health 6

Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health 7

Master of Public Health 8

PhD in Public Health 9

Health Management Qualifications 10

2017 Timetable 12

Paper Descriptions 13

BOARD OF STUDIES
The Postgraduate Public Health programme is planned and
managed by a Board of Studies. Present membership of the
Board is as follows:

This prospectus is intended as a general guide for postgraduate students. The information The Chair
provided is, as far as possible, up to date and accurate at the time of publication. The Heads of Departments (3 Campuses)
University reserves the right to add, amend or withdraw programmes and facilities, to restrict Course Directors (3 Campuses)
student numbers and to make any other alterations as it may deem necessary.
Associate Dean Mori, Health Sciences Division or
We recommend reading the regulations of the University of Otago, which are published designated representative
annually in the University Calendar.
Academic Co-ordinator for the Postgraduate Education
Published: July 2016 in Public Health Programme.
1

Welcome
Tn koutou katoa ng kanohi hou
Congratulations on taking your first step in engaging with the public health
postgraduate programmes at the University of Otago. We appreciate your
interest, and hope to welcome you soon into one of our vibrant departments.
Studying public health, you will be challenged with some of the biggest
questions facing our society today. How do we address the large ethnic
and socioeconomic disparities in health? What are the likely impacts of
global warming and what can we do about them? How can we address
the high prevalence of preventable chronic diseases such as obesity and
diabetes? What about rising health care costs and the re-emergence of some
infectious diseases? Our programmes will allow you to develop the skills and
competencies most sought after by employers in order to address these kinds
of questions. Our graduates find employment in a range of sectors including in
health services, health policy organisations, environmental organisations, local
and central Government, NGOs, iwi providers and many others.
You will be taught by highly skilled and talented teachers, many of whom are
internationally recognised as experts in their fields. Both your teachers and
fellow students will come from diverse professional backgrounds which will
enrich your learning experience. Our departments are well connected to the
public health community both within New Zealand, and internationally
and have strong links with community groups, local iwi, policy-makers,
public health practitioners and researchers. With a suite of 21 papers, as well
as the opportunity for independent research, there is considerable scope to
tailor a programme to fit your professional needs and interests. Several of
the public health papers provide support for other disciplines such as health
management, health research and environmental studies.
WHIA TE ITI KAHURANGI We are confident that the Certificate, Diploma, Masters and PhD courses that
KI TE TOHU KOE ME HE we offer are cutting edge and warmly welcome applications for our courses for
MAUNGA TEITEI 2017. We look forward to hearing from you soon.
Ng mihi mahana
SEEK THE TREASURE YOU VALUE
MOST DEARLY: IF YOU BOW
YOUR HEAD, LET IT BE TO A Professor Diana Sarfati
BOARD OF STUDIES CHAIR
LOFTY MOUNTAIN POSTGRADUATE EDUCATION IN PUBLIC HEALTH
2

Study
Public Health
MAKE A DIFFERENCE THROUGH THE STUDY
OF PUBLIC HEALTH WHAT IS THE TIME COMMITMENT FOR
Public Health is a diverse and vital area, encompassing all POSTGRADUATE STUDY?
aspects of our lives. The issues which influence public health While postgraduate study requires commitment
are often changing and knowledge is constantly evolving. The in terms of time for personal and professional
University of Otagos expertise in public health is nationally and development, it is a truly stimulating and rewarding
internationally recognised. path to take. Students should anticipate spending
approximately 20 hours per week on each paper,
Postgraduate students in Public Health at Otago can develop
including study time, assignment preparation, and
skills relating to:
class attendance.
Health promotion
Initial and ongoing guidance is given for students
How society affects health to assess, interpret, analyse, critique and evaluate
Epidemiology theoretical and professional practice at an advanced
Public policy level. This often requires balancing the demands of
busy lives with academic endeavour.
Health economics
Health systems A range of learning and teaching methodologies are
used to support learning. At the start of each course,
How the environment affects health
convenors and administration staff are available to
Hauora Mori provide information about the services and resources
Public Health ethics and law available within the University for students.
Research methods
Regardless of which aspect of Public Health interests you, it is a
field in which you will really make a difference.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Public health training opens up a number of career opportunities
for graduates from health and non-health backgrounds.
A number of our graduates are working in international,
national and regional health-related policy. Others have found
jobs with district health boards, in planning and analysis roles AS WELL AS UPHOLDING
or as part of the public health service teams (health promotion, THE CORE VALUES OF THE
environmental health). Some students go on to a career in UNIVERSITY OF OTAGO AS
research and evaluation of health services.
EXPRESSED IN THE UNIVERSITY
Recent students have come from degrees in pharmacy, nutrition, CHARTER, THE DEPARTMENTS
medicine, economics, psychology, physical education, sociology THAT TEACH PUBLIC HEALTH
and law.
PLACE A STRONG EMPHASIS ON
SOCIAL JUSTICE, EQUITY AND
VALUING DIVERSITY
Our Values Statement
 3

10 REASONS TO STUDY PUBLIC HEALTH WITH US

1. Build on an undergraduate degree in any discipline.

2. Study full time or part time, whatever suits. Papers are

taught in 7 week terms giving you flexibility to arrange
study around other commitments.

3. Choose your campus: Wellington, Christchurch or Dunedin

where you will be provided with a supportive learning
environment.

4. A broad range of paper topics enabling you to tailor your

qualification to reflect your interests.

5. Qualification staircase: option to start with the

Postgraduate Certificate and add papers to earn a
Diploma or Masters.

6. Our qualifications provide personal and professional

growth to increase your employment potential.

7. University of Otago qualifications are highly respected.

8. Network with and learn from people with skills and

knowledge in areas that could open up opportunities
for you.

9. Research informed teaching from lecturers representing

a wide range of disciplines.

10. Public health is exciting and challenging, dealing with

complex impacts on population health.

PUBLIC HEALTH RESEARCH IS PASSING

THROUGH AN EXTRAORDINARY PERIOD
OF INNOVATION. ITS CONTRIBUTION
TO UNDERSTANDING AND IMPROVING
HEALTH HAS NEVER BEEN HIGHER.
Richard Horton, The Lancet Vol 380, Dec 2012
4

Applying
for Entry
ELIGIBILITY
As guidance, a general requirement for entry into Postgraduate ENGLISH LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY
Public Health courses is a good undergraduate degree, diploma, All graduates from a non-New Zealand university
or professional qualification, which would normally equate to a for whom English is not their first language
B average overall. You must supply an Academic Transcript to are required to provide evidence of adequate
prove that you have the appropriate pre-entry qualifications. proficiency in both spoken and written English.
This evidence will normally be a satisfactory pass
APPLY ONLINE in a standard examination in English language
The university has introduced a compulsory online application proficiency. Applicants must obtain this before they
process for programme admission and enrolment: e:Vision. can be considered for entry to the postgraduate
Apply via the University of Otago website, otago.ac.nz/ papers for the Diploma in Public Health.
publichealth, go to the programme of study you wish to apply
for, and click on the box Apply Now on the right-hand side of This process enables applicants to be aware of the
the webpage. level of proficiency needed to do this course, and
allows staff to assess the suitability of students to
Returning students will be able to login to their e:Vison portal
undertake the course.
with their student username and password to apply for further
programmes. Students are required to complete enrolment/paper The recommended examination is the academic
selection for each year they are studying. module of the International English Language
All candidates need to: Testing System (IELTS), for which we require a score
of 7.5 or above. This examination is held locally at
1. Be admitted to a programme. The approval for this process is the following places:
via an admissions committee.
2. For each year of study, complete enrolment/selection of Wellington
papers for that year. The English Language Institute at Victoria
3. For each year of study, complete the declaration online University
following Course Approval. Tel 04 471 5316
4. Pay fees after accessing the invoice from e:Vision. Christchurch
Christchurch Polytechnic Institute of Technology
FEES PO Box 540, Christchurch
Fees must be paid by early February for first semester papers, Tel 0800 242 476
and mid-July for second semester papers.
Dunedin
Tuition fees are prescribed by the University Council, and are Otago Language Centre
generally not finalised until November of the year prior to taking Level 2, St David 2 Building, 75 St David Street
effect. Once set, they can be found on the Universitys website: PO Box 56, Dunedin
General Information: otago.ac.nz/study/fees Tel 03 479 5250
Individual paper costs: otago.ac.nz/subjects/index
Alternatively please contact:
The Fees Office
University of Otago
Tel +64 03 479 9006
Email Student.finance@otago.ac.nz
 5

Qualifications in
Public Health
Each qualification has a number of papers, some of which are core (compulsory). You choose the remainder from among the twenty-
one papers available at post-graduate level across each of our three campuses. All Public Health papers have a value of 15 points.

POSTGRADUATE CERTIFICATE POSTGRADUATE DIPLOMA MASTER OF PUBLIC HEALTH (MPH)

IN PUBLIC HEALTH (PGCertPH) IN PUBLIC HEALTH (DPH) 240 points
60 points 120 points 1 year full-time or equivalent part-time
Half year full-time or equivalent part-time 1 year full-time or equivalent part-time Completion of the DPH (120 points)
4 Public Health Papers (60 points) 4 Core Public Health Papers (60 points) PLUS
selected from the schedule of endorsed options PUBH 711 Principles in Epidemiology
Either a Thesis or Dissertation option (120 points)
PUBH 712 Foundations of Hauora Mori
PUBH 713 Society, Health & Health Promotion Option 1: Thesis (120 points), or
Endorsed Options PUBH 714 Public Policy & Health Systems Option 2: Dissertation (60 points)
Choose one of the following endorsements and PLUS 4 PUBH papers (60 points)
select the papers listed as part (or all) of the 60
points required. 4 Additional Public Health papers (60 points)
PUBH 721 Methods for Epidemiological Research
Environmental Health PUBH 723 Survey Methods
PUBH 733 and PUBH 734 PUBH 724 Introduction to Qualitative Research
Health Economics Methods
PUBH 735 and PUBH 736 PUBH 725 Applied Biostatistics 1 Fundamentals
PUBH 726 Applied Biostatistics 2 Regression
Health Promotion Methods
PUBH 713 and PUBH 743 PUBH 732 Prevention & Control of Disease
Public Policy and Health in Populations NOTE:
PUBH 713, PUBH 714 and PUBH 744 PUBH 733 Environment and Health
In addition to PUBH 711, students must have
PUBH 734 Health Protection
Health Systems and Services attained a B+ in one of the following research
PUBH 735 Economics of Health Policy Decision
PUBH 714 and PUBH 742 methods papers (relevant to the intended research
Making
design) as part of the DPH, or include it in their
Mori Health PUBH 736 Economic Evaluation
four Public Health papers if completing with
PUBH 712 and PUBH 741 PUBH 737 Public Health Law and Public Health
Dissertation:
Ethics Fundamentals
Research Methods PUBH 738 Global Health Law and Global PUBH 721 Methods for Epidemiological
PUBH 711, PUBH 723, PUBH 724 Health Ethics Research
and PUBH 725 PUBH 739 Special Topic Systematic Reviews PUBH 723 Survey Methods
PUBH 741 Hauora Mori Policy, Practice and PUBH 724 Introduction to Qualitative
Research Research Methods
PUBH 742 International Health Systems PUBH 725 Applied Biostatistics 1
PUBH 743 Health Promotion Programme Planning Fundamentals
and Evaluation PUBH 726 Applied Biostatistics 2
PUBH 744 Healthy Public Policy Regression Methods
PUBH 739 Special Topic: Systematic Reviews
Or an equivalent research methods paper(s)
Optional Endorsements approved by the Public Health Academic
The following endorsements are available by Committee.
including the papers listed below:
Health Promotion*
PUBH 743 and PUBH 744
Epidemiology
Three of PUBH 721, PUBH 732, PUBH 725,
PUBH 726
Social Research Methods
PUBH 723 and PUBH 724 plus one of
PUBH 725, PUBH 736, PUBH 743

* The DPH endorsed in Health Promotion is recognised by the Health Promotion Forum of New Zealand for providing advanced
knowledge and understanding of the Nga Kaiakatanga Hauora mo Aotearoa Health Promotion Competencies for Aotearoa New Zealand
6
STUDENT PROFILE

POSTGRADUATE CERTIFICATE IN
PUBLIC HEALTH Sarah Macfarlane
The Postgraduate Certificate in Public Health (PGCertPH) Postgraduate Certificate in Public Health 2015
provides a University qualification in public health, with
specific endorsed areas of study. Some students, particularly As a new mum, Sarah studied part time to complete
the Postgraduate Certificate in Public Health during
those already working in the health sector, may wish to obtain
2015 whilst on leave from her now part-time Health
a postgraduate qualification in public health, but do not wish to
Promoter role at Community and Public Health (CPH) in
undertake a Diploma or Masters qualification. The postgraduate
Christchurch.
certificate provides such students with an appropriate
qualification. My past work on the administrative side of the health sector,
and experiences travelling overseas witnessing the impact of
The Postgraduate Certificate in Public Health comprises four
poverty and inequity on different populations, led me to value
papers from the Public Health paper offerings. It is an integral
health as a resource for living that everyone should enjoy. It
part of the postgraduate Public Health programme. If students
was important to me to become an active community member
decide to continue their studies after obtaining the postgraduate
when I returned from my overseas experience, at which time I
certificate, they can be exempted from four papers in the began to look for a career that I hoped would make a positive
Diploma in Public Health (DPH), thus obtaining a DPH by difference to peoples lives.
undertaking four further papers (four of the eight papers must
be the compulsory papers for the DPH). With no previous tertiary qualification, Sarah was
advised to study the undergraduate Certificate in Health
The Postgraduate Certificate in Public Health would normally Promotion, through University of Otagos distant learning
be completed in half an academic year of full-time study or the programme, which she completed in 2011. Armed with
equivalent in part-time study. newly gained knowledge of health promotion strategies
relevant to New Zealands situation, and the boundless
enthusiasm of a recent graduate, it was not long before
Sarah gained a Health Promoting Schools role at CPH;
where she was encouraged to complete the Postgraduate
Certificate in Public Health.

I finally found my passion in working with communities to

address health needs. I feel truly fortunate to be able to put
theory into practice and to be supported by my workplace to
continue to up skill. Studying the broader field of Public Health,
taught by the inspiring lecturers at Otago, has galvanized
and strengthened my health promotion practices; particularly
focusing on policy change to address the determinants of
health, and working more closely with Mori communities to
reduce the equity gap.

Sarah plans to complete the Postgraduate Diploma in

Public Health over the next few years, whilst she learns to
balance her new family and work responsibilities.
 7
STUDENT PROFILE

POSTGRADUATE DIPLOMA IN PUBLIC HEALTH

The Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health (DPH) is a broad- Mereana Latimer
based qualification which is highly sought after by a range of Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health student
employers. Candidates are required to hold a degree or to have
an appropriate professional qualification. A number of poor health outcomes in her family were
the impetus that drew Mereana into her studies. She
This is a relevant and practical postgraduate qualification, with wanted to help others by engineering cures to better treat
graduates being able to identify and understand public health illness, so hoping to pursue a career in medical research
issues, and depending on which optional papers are taken, gain she initially completing an undergraduate degree in
the skills to analyse and use health data, design appropriate Biomedical Science. However during the course of her
health promotion strategies, plan and evaluate public health study she admits becoming increasingly frustrated with the
interventions, work collaboratively with professionals and the limitations of such treatments.
community, appreciate resource allocation and cost issues in
It became clear to me that the greatest gains in health could
health and uphold ethical standards.
be made through disease prevention and control. Coming
The DPH consists of 4 core papers, with a further 4 papers from a mixed background of Cook Island Mori, Pkeh and
chosen from the schedule enabling the qualification to cover a Mori descent, I have always been interested in identifying and
broad range of Public Health topics. The Postgraduate Diploma addressing the differential determinants of health. The field
in Public Health would normally be completed in one academic of Public Health encompassed a number of my interests, and
year of full-time study or the equivalent in part-time study. seemed to offer a great number of avenues through which to
enact positive change.
For those who are planning to go on to a Master of Public
Health, a research paper relevant to the intended methodological Mereana is currently undertaking a Postgraduate Diploma
approach needs to be included as one of the optional 4 papers. in Public Health, which really appealed to her as it provides
This is in addition to the core Epidemiology paper. a solid grounding for future work or study in the field.

We expect that the majority of students will complete an The short paper structure meant I was able to pursue a
unendorsed DPH. However there are three endorsed options variety of interest papers, and the low contact hours make
for those with specific interest areas in Epidemiology, Health it easier to balance work with study. The University of Otago
Promotion or Social Research Methods. has provided me with an amazing learning environment,
filled with passionate lecturers and students, and with many
opportunities to engage with professionals working in the field.

In addition to her studies, Mereana is currently working

part-time as a research assistant on projects that aim to
address inequities in Mori respiratory health. Her future
plans include continuing on to pursue a Masters degree
in Public Health. However her primary focus, once she
has completed her DPH, is to take the skills she has learnt
out into the workforce and make a difference, ensuring
equitable health outcomes for future generations.
8
STUDENT PROFILE

MASTER OF PUBLIC HEALTH

The Master of Public Health degree (MPH) is an internationally Elinor Millar
recognised qualification in its field. A MPH will deepen your Master of Public Health 2016
understanding of public health and give you research experience.
Elinor Millar is a medical doctor who is currently
The MPH is a supervised degree, enabling students to work in undertaking specialist training with the New Zealand
close association with active researchers. MPH graduates will College of Public Health Medicine.
have developed research skills that may be applied in public
health policy, practice or research settings. Elinors interest in Public Health began at Medical School:
I was always interested in the big picture. The basic concepts
The prerequisite for the Master of Public Health is the of public health preventing disease and promoting health
Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health (DPH), or an equivalent made so much sense to me.
public health degree. Candidates are expected to have achieved
After finishing medical school she worked for a few years
a good B average overall for their DPH. All admissions to the
on the wards, which helped consolidate the decision to
programme are subject to the approval of the Programme
pursue a career in public health. I loved aspects of hospital
Academic Coordinator.
medicine, but I found myself thinking about the common
An MPH can be completed in one academic year of full-time causes underlying so many medical issues: poverty, housing,
study or the equivalent in part-time study. Students have the education, employment and the wider social and political
option of either completing a thesis (120 points) or undertaking environment in which people live. I was interested in finding
a dissertation (60 points) and four additional 15 point out how to address these big issues.
Postgraduate Public Health papers not already completed to gain
The first stage of training to become a public health
their DPH.
physician involves completing a Masters in Public Health,
Those interested in MPH study should contact their nearest which Elinor completed through the University of Otago in
Department for further information (see back cover for contact Wellington. Throughout the MPH I had some truly inspiring
details). Enrolments for the thesis option may be accepted at any lecturers and I had excellent supervision for my Masters
time; however students must first have discussed their proposed dissertation. I really valued the small class sizes and loved the
thesis or dissertation with a member of the academic staff of one fact that people came to study public health from such varied
of the Departments. backgrounds, which always led to interesting class discussions.
I have learnt so much from my studies at Otago and am
New Zealand College of Public Health Medicine registrars excited about putting this knowledge into action.
may be eligible for early entry to the MPH in order to meet
the New Zealand College of Public Health Medicine training Elinor is now working towards completing her Public
requirements to start the thesis or dissertation in the first year Health Training and is currently working at Regional Public
of their training. Such candidates must have achieved a standard Health at Hutt Hospital.
satisfactory to the Public Health Academic Committee in the
papers taken in the first semester of the DPH.
 9
STUDENT PROFILE

PhD IN PUBLIC HEALTH

A PhD provides an unequalled opportunity to carry out in- Lindsay Robertson
depth research and analysis of a particular Public Health issue. PhD student
University of Otago offers the supervision of leading researchers
from many different backgrounds. We aim to create a stimulating After completing an undergraduate degree in psychology
and toying with the idea of becoming a clinical psychologist,
and supportive environment for emerging researchers.
Lindsay essentially stumbled into a career in public health.
Intending applicants for doctoral study will have demonstrated
the ability to progress to an advanced degree and have a keen I simply saw a job advert that sounded interesting, and ended
up working at the local public health unit as a mental health
interest in research. Interested students are encouraged view staff
promotion advisor for around four years. It was during this
profiles on the web.
time I did the Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health (DPH) at
Joint arrangements can be made across departments to provide University of Otago, then decided to take the leap and do the
supervision and where necessary, with other tertiary institutions. Master of Public Health (MPH) full-time, and now I am in the
Those interested in embarking on a PhD should contact their final stretch of my PhD!
nearest Department for further information (see back cover What attracted Lindsay to studying public health was the
for contact details). Enrolment in a PhD is not limited to the idea of working in a field that embraces social justice and
beginning of semesters; they may be accepted at any time of reducing inequity. She came to see how valuable research
the year. could be in terms of influencing public policy, and equally,
how important policy approaches were as a tool to reduce
inequity.

Tobacco is one of the biggest contributors to health inequities

in developed countries. My PhD is exploring different tobacco
retail policies that could be introduced in New Zealand to
change the way tobacco is sold. At the moment tobacco is
sold almost everywhere, and unlike alcohol, you dont need a
licence to sell tobacco.

Lindsays looking at the tobacco retail policies that

have been introduced in overseas countries: Is there
evidence of effectiveness? How acceptable are these
policies amongst key stakeholder groups in NZ? What are
the likely effects of these policies on smoking? Lindsay
hopes answering these questions will help nudge the
government towards adopting policies to better regulate
the tobacco retail environment. She believes this would be
an important step towards New Zealands goal of being a
smoke-free nation by 2025.

After completing her PhD, shes hoping to stay on in the

Department of Preventive and Social Medicine at the
Dunedin campus in a research capacity.

My supervisors and the wider team of researchers I work

alongside are so supportive, humble and inspiring, it would be
hard to match that anywhere else.
10

Health Management
Qualifications
POSTGRADUATE DIPLOMA IN MASTER OF HEALTH SCIENCES
HEALTH MANAGEMENT (PGDipHealMgt) ENDORSED IN HEALTH MANAGEMENT
120 points made up from: (MHealSc HLMT)
240 points made up from:
Public Health papers (60 points)
Choose 4 from the following: Completion of the PGDipHealMgt (120 points)
PUBH 713 Society Health & Health Promotion (15pts) PLUS
PUBH 714 Public Policy & Health Systems (15pts)
Either a Thesis or Dissertation option (120 points)
PUBH 735 The Economics of Health Policy Decision
Making (15pts) Option 1: Thesis (120 points), or
PUBH 736 Economic Evaluation (15pts) Option 2: Dissertation (60 points)
PUBH 742 International Health Systems (15pts) 4 additional Public Health papers (60 points)
PUBH 744 Healthy Public Policy (15pts)

PLUS
Master of Business Administration papers (60 points)
Choose approved papers from the schedule of papers for
the Master in Business Administration from either;
University of Otago, Dunedin. MBA papers are NOTE:
available via distance learning, as well as on-campus. Students must complete two approved research methods
See otagomba.ac.nz/online-mba for more information. papers from the following schedule, to the value of 30
BMBA 501 Business Law (15pts) points, before embarking on their thesis or dissertation:
BMBA 502 Marketing (15pts)
BMBA 503 Organisational Leadership (15pts)
PUBH 711 Principles of Epidemiology (15pts)
BMBA 504 Statistics and Decision Tools (15pts) PUBH 723 Survey Methods (15pts)
BMBA 505 Economics (15pts)
BMBA 506 Human Resource Management (15pts) PUBH 724 Introduction to Qualitative Research
BMBA 507 Accounting (15pts) Methods (15pts)
BMBA 508 Investment and Global Financial Markets (15pts)
BMBA 509 Strategic Planning for International Markets (15pts) PUBH 725 Applied Biostatistics 1 Fundamentals (15pts)
BMBA 510 Leading Sustainable Enterprises (15pts)
BMBA 511 Operational Excellence (15pts)
PUBH 726 Applied Biostatistics 2 Regression Methods
BMBA 512 International Business (15pts) (15pts)
BMBA 513 Strategy Implementation (15pts)
An equivalent research methods paper(s) approved by
BMBA 530 Business Project (30pts)
the Public Health Academic Committee
Victoria University of Wellington victoria.ac.nz
University of Canterbury canterbury.ac.nz
 11
STUDENT PROFILE

POSTGRADUATE DIPLOMA IN HEALTH MANAGEMENT

The Postgraduate Diploma in Health Management Simon Templeton
(PGDipHealMgt) is a programme of study that draws equally Postgraduate Diploma in Health Management
on public health and business administration. Participants study
health systems, policy and health economics in the public health Simon is a registered Nurse, graduating from Christchurch
Polytechnic in 1994. Working in the field of mental health
programme and a suite of recommended papers in business.
both in New Zealand and the UK, his first management
Those most likely to benefit from the programme are health role was with the regional Forensic service at the
professionals moving into managerial roles, managers taking Canterbury District Health Board. Deciding that managing
up positions in the health sector, and those in existing health health services was his forte, he looked around for new
management positions seeking both to advance their skills and to challenges and went on to manage the Older Persons
enhance their understanding of the sector and their role within it. Health Community Services.
Candidates for the Postgraduate Diploma in Health Management It was at this time that he started his search for a
require an appropriate health profession qualification, qualification that was going to both enhance his
requiring at least three years full-time tertiary study or have knowledge and skills, and also his career opportunities.
alternative qualifications or experience acceptable to the The Postgraduate Diploma in Health Management ticked
Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Health Sciences). Applicants must also both of those boxes, and after completing the required
present evidence of their ability for advanced academic study. papers part-time, he graduated in 2014.
All admissions are subject to the approval of the Pro-Vice-
While working towards the qualification, he moved into
Chancellor (Health Sciences).
a service manager role at Planning and Funding, at the
Canterbury District Health Board. The course content was
MASTER OF HEALTH SCIENCES (HEALTH MANAGEMENT)
helpful on a day to day basis in the role, as his function
The Master of Health Sciences (Health Management) offers
was to manage and effect change across the entire health
an advanced qualification in management, which includes a system for older people.
research component of either a supervised thesis or dissertation.
It is suitable for students who wish to pursue a higher level career The skills obtained through completing the Postgraduate
in Health Management and will provide evidence of in-depth, Diploma in Health Management were also crucial to him
independent investigation into topics selected by students. securing his current position as CEO at Age Concern
Canterbury, leading the non-government organisation in
Candidates for the Master of Health Sciences (Health all areas.
Management) are expected to have achieved a good B average
overall for their PGDipHealMgt. Every applicant must have Getting back into study after a 17 year gap was a bit
completed approved research methods papers to the value of daunting, but there was a lot of support offered. Studying
something that is relevant and useful on a daily basis, meant
30 points, before starting their thesis or dissertation. Those
that it was extremely satisfying (and even enjoyable!). Every
completing with a dissertation would take these papers as part of
paper I did is assisting me in my current role from HR and
their approved Public Health papers. However those completing
accounting to operational management.
with a thesis will need to take the research methods papers in
addition to their qualification. The mix of both University of Otago Public Health papers and
University of Canterbury MBA papers worked really well. It is
PhD HEALTH MANAGEMENT great to have completed a qualification that is well known and
Public Health staff at all three campuses have a range of highly respected. I could not praise the lecturers highly enough,
research interests and Doctoral research supervision is available. they are extremely knowledgeable and great lecturers.
Interested students are encouraged to visit the website and view
staff profiles.
12

2017
Timetable
SEMESTER 1 SEMESTER 2
Term 1 Term 2 Term 3 Term 4
27 February 14 April 24 April 16 June 10 July 25 August 4 September 27 October

PUBH 712 PUBH 711 PUBH 713 PUBH 714

Foundations of Principles of Epidemiology Society, Health and Public Policy and
Hauora Mori Tuesday morning sessions* Health Promotion Health Systems
Thursday morning sessions* Friday morning tutorials* Tuesday afternoon sessions* Monday afternoon sessions*

PUBH 741 PUBH 743

PUBH 733 PUBH 744 Health Promotion
Environment and Health Hauora Mori Policy, Healthy Public Policy Programme Planning
Wednesday morning sessions*
Practice and Research Wednesday morning sessions* and Evaluation
Thursday morning sessions*
Wednesday morning sessions*

PUBH 735 PUBH 724 PUBH 732

PUBH 736
The Economics of Health Introduction to Qualitative Prevention and Control of
Economic Evaluation
Policy Decision Making Research Methods Disease in Populations
Friday morning sessions*
Friday morning sessions* Wednesday morning sessions* Tuesday morning sessions*

PUBH 734 PUBH 721

PUBH 723 Health Protection PUBH 742 Methods for Epidemiological
Survey Methods Monday afternoon webinar International Health Systems Research
Tuesday morning sessions* sessions (4-6pm) One day workshop in Dunedin* Thursday morning video
One day field trip in Wellington* conferences*

PUBH 737 PUBH 738 PUBH 739

Public Health Law and Ethics Global Health Law and Special topic Systematic
Fundamentals Global Health Ethics Reviews
Fortnightly audio conferences Fortnightly audio conferences
Two day workshop in Wellington* One day workshop in Wellington* No class attendance required

PUBH 725 PUBH 726

Applied Biostatistics 1 Applied Biostatistics 2
Fundamentals Regression Methods
No class attendance required No class attendance required

KEY

Core for DPH On-Campus Taught Distance Taught

Each paper is worth 15 points.

Students are encouraged to take the core papers for their qualification first.
Part-time students would usually complete one paper at a time.
Full-time students would usually complete two papers at once.
* Please refer to individual paper webpages for further details regarding block courses, workshops, and other attendance requirements.
 13

Paper
Descriptions
PUBH 711 PRINCIPLES OF EPIDEMIOLOGY PUBH 714 PUBLIC POLICY AND HEALTH SYSTEMS
(15 points) Core Paper for DPH (15 points) Core Paper for DPH
24 April 16 June 2017 4 September 27 October 2017

This paper will introduce students to the principles and practice The aim of this paper is to analyse the roles and function of
of epidemiology in public health. In the first part of the paper, public policy, health policy and health systems in fostering
students will learn how they can identify patterns of health or population health. This paper equips students with knowledge of
disease in populations to address questions such as: Which how government is structured, the contribution of public policy
groups of people are more likely to suffer poor health? Is health and health policy to population health, as well as skills in policy
improving over time? Does health vary by place? Students will advocacy. It also explores how health systems are structured,
learn about epidemiological study designs and methods, and funded and assessed with particular reference to New Zealand.
identify what types of important public health questions they
can be used to investigate. Students will learn how to identify PUBH 721 METHODS FOR EPIDEMIOLOGICAL RESEARCH
and assess potential error in epidemiological studies and how (15 points) Distance Taught
to measure the potential associations between exposures and 4 September 27 October 2017
disease. By the end of the paper students will be critically Prerequisite (PUBH 701 or PUBH 711) and (HASC 413 or
appraising published epidemiological studies and addressing STAT 110 or STAT 115 or PUBH 725)
questions such as does this study provide valid evidence about This paper builds on the Principles of Epidemiology (PUBH711),
the cause of this disease in this population? to provide a deeper understanding of epidemiological ideas
and methods for those who intend to carry out epidemiological
PUBH 712 FOUNDATIONS OF HAUORA MORI studies in public health. Students will learn in more depth about
(15 points) Core Paper for DPH epidemiological study design and a range of approaches for dealing
27 February 14 April 2017
with confounding and bias in the design and analysis of studies of
This paper aims to provide an overview of the fundamental aspects risk factor-disease associations. Students will have the opportunity
and approaches required to understand Hauora Mori. Students to explore a specific methodological issue in epidemiology. By the
will develop an appreciation of the context and determinants of end of the paper students will be able to design, implement and
hauora Mori; in particular, the impact and role of historical and analyse an epidemiological study with appropriate oversight
political events and their relation to contemporary hauora Mori (e.g. Master of Public Health thesis) or as part of a research team.
outcomes will be explored and considered.
PUBH 723 SURVEY METHODS
PUBH 713 SOCIETY, HEALTH & HEALTH PROMOTION (15 points)
(15 points) Core Paper for DPH 27 February 14 April 2017
10 July 25 August 2017
This research paper will enable students to develop the skills
In this paper, students will gain an appreciation of the history of involved in planning a survey, including how to identify
public health and health promotion, both internationally and in appropriate research questions, define concepts and test theory
New Zealand. They will develop knowledge and skill in analysing effectively, construct and validate a questionnaire, sample
the determinants of health and health inequalities, including participants and analyse data descriptively. The lecturer will give
the role of social and political processes. Students will explore support to students to choose a research topic which will be
strategies for change and gain knowledge and skill in using developed in the assignments. The paper will give an
health promotion concepts and frameworks to promote health. appreciation of the strengths and weaknesses of questionnaire
methodologies and prepare students for research at Masters level.
14

PUBH 724 INTRODUCTION TO QUALITATIVE RESEARCH PUBH 726 APPLIED BIOSTATISTICS 2

METHODS REGRESSION METHODS
(15 points) (15 points) Distance Taught
24 April 16 June 2017 24 April 16 June 2017
Prerequisite HASC 413 or PUBH 725
This paper will give students an understanding of the strengths
and the theoretical underpinnings of qualitative methodologies This distance paper will introduce students to the main regression
used in public health research from different disciplinary methods in health sciences research and is highly recommended
perspectives. We will look at a range of qualitative methodologies for all students that want and/or need to analyse quantitative data.
as well as the usual ways of collecting qualitative data. Students The paper builds on knowledge and skills learned in PUBH725
will develop skills on how to assess and ensure the rigor of and also has a strong applied component. From a public health
qualitative studies as well as ensure that ethical issues are point of view, students will learn how to generate and interpret
addressed in the design of their research. The paper takes an statistical models to adjust for confounders as well as identifying
experiential approach, with students working on a research the variables that have a statistical effect on the outcome of
topic of their interest. It will provide a good grounding for interest. The regression topics covered include: multiple linear
undertaking qualitative research at a Masters level. regression, logistic, Poisson, survival analysis and longitudinal
studies. For this paper, students must have access to a computer
PUBH 725 APPLIED BIOSTATISTICS 1 FUNDAMENTALS with an internet connection.
(15 points) Distance Taught
27 February 14 April 2017 PUBH 732 PREVENTION & CONTROL OF DISEASE IN
POPULATIONS
This distance paper will introduce students to the use of
(15 points)
statistical methods in health sciences research and is highly
10 July 25 August 2017
recommended for all students that want and/or need to analyse
quantitative data. Students will learn the theory needed to This paper introduces students to how epidemiology can be
perform basic descriptive analysis as well to correctly understand applied to prevent and control disease in populations. Students
appropriate statistical methods to test quantitative questions. will learn how epidemiological approaches and data can be
The paper has a strong applied component and students will used to assess the health needs of a population, monitor the
learn how to perform analysis with computational software, occurrence of communicable and non-communicable diseases,
particularly how to generate high-quality plots and report and evaluate the effectiveness of public health strategies.
results for thesis and scientific journals. Topics covered include: We will cover topics such as comparing high-risk strategies
descriptive statistics, hypothesis testing and simple linear versus population approaches to prevention, the strengths and
regression and correlation. For this paper, students must have weaknesses of population screening to detect early cases of
access to a computer with an internet connection. disease, the attributes of a good surveillance system, and study
designs that can be used to evaluate the impact of public health
interventions. By the end of this paper, students will have skills
to assess and monitor the burden of ill-health caused by diseases
in a population, what approaches can be used to prevent or
control these diseases, and how to assess whether these strategies
have been successful. It is highly recommended that students
complete paper PUBH 711 before commencing this paper.
 15

PUBH 733 ENVIRONMENT AND HEALTH competition and efficiency. Skills will be provided to analyse costs
(15 points) of health care services, including marginal and opportunity costs.
27 February 14 April 2017 Health care markets and market failure will be covered, including
problems with health insurance, information asymmetry, adverse
The quality of our physical living environment is fundamental to
selection, externalities and monopolies. Students will obtain
human survival and quality of life. Human habitats have changed
skills in analysing the advantages and disadvantages of policy
radically over time and the built environment now dominates.
options including payment incentives/disincentives, co-payments,
At the same time, humans have been changing global ecosystems
capitation, taxation, subsidies and regulation. Case-studies will
in unprecedented ways, with far-reaching implications for
include taxation of tobacco and alcohol.
public health. This paper provides an introduction to the links

between human habitats, environmental sustainability and
PUBH 736 ECONOMIC EVALUATION
human wellbeing. It furnishes students with theoretical and
(15 points)
methodological knowledge; skills for undertaking integrative
4 September 27 October 2017
research and decision-making; and tools for communicating with
a variety of audiences. Links with Mori wellbeing, as well as links Students will obtain skills in economic evaluation, including
with health and social inequalities, are integrated throughout. cost-effectiveness analysis and methods for informing decision-
making on investments in new health technologies. Methods
PUBH 734 HEALTH PROTECTION for analysing costs of health interventions will be introduced.
(15 points) Distance Taught Students will learn options for valuing outcomes of health
24 April 16 June 2017 services including traditional methods such as saving of life, as
well as valuing improvements in quality of life. This paper will
Principles of health protection and their application to
provide students with an understanding of cost utility analysis
environmental health practice in New Zealand. Topics studied
and cost benefit analysis. Case studies will include the methods
include: an overview of the important environmental hazards
that statutory agencies use to make decisions on purchasing
and diseases affecting New Zealand and our region, water and air
new health technologies, such as those used by PHARMAC and
quality, food safety, indoor and work environments, infectious
NICE. This paper will also cover methods used in the WHO
disease control, and environmental health emergencies. There
and World Bank studies of the Burden of Disease and how these
will be a strong emphasis on developing critical skills for
are used to investigate investments in health interventions.
health protection, including: environmental epidemiology, risk
Students will also gain an understanding of different options for
assessment and management, basic toxicology, health protection
prioritisation.
law, health protection practice to reduce health inequalities,
health protection indicators, public health surveillance, outbreak
PUBH 737 PUBLIC HEALTH LAW AND PUBLIC HEALTH
investigation, cluster investigation, emergency management,
ETHICS FUNDAMENTALS
environmental research methods, and effective use of evidence.
(15 points)Distance Taught
27 February 14 April 2017
PUBH 735 ECONOMICS OF HEALTH POLICY
DECISION-MAKING Focuses on the framework, scope and content of core public
(15 points) health law in New Zealand with the viewpoint of law as a tool
27 February 14 April 2017 for public health. Analyses and discusses key concepts and
frameworks in public health ethics with implications for law.
This paper provides insights into the economic policy tools
Covers basic legal concepts and skills in understanding and
available to regulate and incentivise health care market issues.
researching law; analyses concepts fundamental to public health
Students will be introduced to concepts of health care markets,
law and ethics, in particular risk, enforcement, and international
16

law. Legal concepts and ethical frameworks are applied to critical PUBH 741 HAUORA MORI POLICY, PRACTICE
topics in public health law: communicable disease, environmental AND RESEARCH
health and public health emergencies. Law and ethical issues (15 points)
relating to risk factors for noncommunicable diseases, in 24 April 16 June 2017
particular tobacco, alcohol, food and nutrition, are summarised.
This paper aims to provide key insights into aspects of New
This paper includes a two-day workshop (attendance required) in
Zealand health policy and service development and delivery,
Wellington at the beginning of term one.
as well as various research contexts and approaches that relate
to hauora Mori. Key examples will be explored and critically
PUBH 738 GLOBAL HEALTH LAW AND GLOBAL
analysed to enhance understanding of the critical role hauora
HEALTH ETHICS
Mori has within the policy, practice and research contexts
(15 points) Distance Taught
within New Zealand. It is recommended that students complete
24 April 16 June 2017
PUBH 712 before commencement.
Analyses emerging ideas on global public health law and global
health ethics and how international law, including international PUBH 742 INTERNATIONAL HEALTH SYSTEMS
trade law and intellectual property law with their impacts on (15 points) Distance Taught
public health; discusses legal and ethical issues associated with 10 July 25 August 2017
diseases of the 21st century with global dimensions (NCDs,
This paper examines the global forces and institutions that shape
chronic disease); globalisation and communicable disease; global
health systems, challenges faced by developing and developed
law in relation to health and the environment.
countries, and the different methods for assessing health systems
This paper includes a one-day workshop (attendance required) in performance.
Wellington at the beginning of term two. It is recommended that
students complete PUBH 737 before commencement. PUBH 743 HEALTH PROMOTION PROGRAMME
PLANNING AND EVALUATION
PUBH 739 SPECIAL TOPIC SYSTEMATIC REVIEWS (15 points)
(15 points) Distance Taught 4 September 27 October 2017
4 September 27 October 2017
This paper aims to introduce the principles and practice of health
In this paper, students will learn about the key features of a promotion programme planning and evaluation. Students will
systematic review. Students will learn why a systematic approach be equipped to understand the planning and evaluation process
is necessary to produce an unbiased summary of literature, and including the relevant theory, literature, planning models,
will gain practical skills that will allow them to conduct their evaluation approaches and ways to operationalise Te Tiriti o
own review. Topics covered will include planning of a review, Waitangi. Interactive approaches to teaching and learning are used.
building a search strategy, identifying eligible studies, assessing
the potential for bias (both within individual studies and across PUBH 744 HEALTHY PUBLIC POLICY
the review), and the analysis of data (including meta-analysis). (15 points)
For this paper, students must have access to a computer with an 10 July 2017 25 August 2017
internet connection.
The goals of this paper are to develop an appreciation of the key
role that public policy plays in population health and to develop
skills in understanding, analysing and intervening in the making
of healthy public policy. To this end, the paper is designed to
critically investigate public policy and policymaking; understand
the policy process and the role of evidence within it; and apply
policy evaluation.
Contents
Welcome 1

Study Public Health 2

Career Opportunities 2

Applying for Entry 4

Qualifications in Public Health 5

Postgraduate Certificate in Public Health 6

Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health 7

Master of Public Health 8

PhD in Public Health 9

Health Management Qualifications 10

2017 Timetable 12

Paper Descriptions 13

BOARD OF STUDIES
The Postgraduate Public Health programme is planned and
managed by a Board of Studies. Present membership of the
Board is as follows:

This prospectus is intended as a general guide for postgraduate students. The information The Chair
provided is, as far as possible, up to date and accurate at the time of publication. The Heads of Departments (3 Campuses)
University reserves the right to add, amend or withdraw programmes and facilities, to restrict Course Directors (3 Campuses)
student numbers and to make any other alterations as it may deem necessary.
Associate Dean Mori, Health Sciences Division or
We recommend reading the regulations of the University of Otago, which are published designated representative
annually in the University Calendar.
Academic Co-ordinator for the Postgraduate Education
Published: July 2016 in Public Health Programme.
 2017 Prospectus

Public Health
Postgraduate
Programmes
University of Otago, Wellington
University of Otago, Christchurch
University of Otago, Dunedin

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:

Wellington Campus Christchurch Campus Dunedin Campus

Department of Public Health Department of Population Health Department of Preventive & Social Medicine
Mein Street, Wellington South 34 Gloucester Street, Christchurch Adams Building, 18 Frederick Street, Dunedin
PO Box 7343, Wellington South 6242, NZ PO Box 4345, Christchurch 8140, NZ PO Box 56, Dunedin 9054, NZ
+64 4 918 6040 +64 3 364 3602 +64 3 479 7205
publichealth.uow@otago.ac.nz publichealth.uoc@otago.ac.nz postgrad.publichealthdunedin@otago.ac.nz

otago.ac.nz/publichealth