Students must complete the following core subjects
| Accordion | |
|---|---|
| Environmental Sustainability · 12.5 pts |
Environmental Sustainability is one of two core subjects for the Master of Environment degree. This subject provides students with a strong foundation in interdisciplinary understanding of critical environmental sustainability issues, and how and why they have emerged, in the context of policy, management, and governance across scales and sectors. |
| Partnerships for Sustainable Futures · 12.5 pts |
Environmental sustainability issues are often complex, controversial and associated with uncertain conditions. Multiple individuals and organisations may have an interest or stake in the problem, may have relevant expertise or resources, or may contribute to decision-making and management. Developing, implementing and evaluating pathways for sustainable futures thus often requires cooperation across institutions, sectors, and communities. Private, public and not-for-profit sectors; local, national, regional and global jurisdictions; disciplinary, practitioner, local, and Indigenous knowledges: these all have different commitments, priorities, and ways of working. How do we successfully translate and collaborate across these areas, and how does this support transformational change for sustainable futures? |
Students must take the following compulsory specialisation subjects
| Accordion | |
|---|---|
| Epidemiology 1 · 12.5 pts |
This subject is a core subject within the Master of Public Health, the Master of Epidemiology, the Master of Science (Epidemiology) and the Master of Biostatistics. Students should enrol in this subject early in their program of study. Epidemiology is the study of the distribution and determinants of disease frequency in human populations and the application of this study to control health problems. It is a fundamental science of public health. Three main tasks of epidemiology include description, causal inference and prediction. This subject focuses on the first two and emphasises the application of epidemiological evidence to informing public health practice and policy. Description: the epidemiological measures of disease frequency and summary measures of population health are introduced and used to describe patterns and trends in disease occurrence within and between populations. The role of routinely collected data, particularly for surveillance of infectious diseases, is discussed. Causal inference: is key to applying epidemiological evidence to controlling health problems if interventions are to be effective. In this subject, causal inference is considered within the modern counterfactual framework. Causal diagrams, which are an integral part of this approach to causal inference are introduced. The common experimental and observational study designs, and systematic reviews, and their relative strengths and weaknesses are discussed. The implications of common types of bias (selection bias, information bias, and confounding) are discussed, as are methods to minimise them. Methods to control for confounding, including standardisation, are discussed. Differences in characteristics of the major sources of morbidity (infectious disease, non-communicable disease, and injury) are discussed in the context of prevention and early detection of disease. Transmission dynamics of infectious diseases are introduced in this context. The applicability of epidemiological evidence (external validity) to interventions in target populations is introduced. Measures of the validity and performance of tests for early detection are introduced. |
| Foundations of Public Health · 12.5 pts |
This subject is a compulsory subject within the Master of Public Health. It lays the foundation for the degree and provides an orientation to the field of public health. It provides a critical overview of public health historical development, conceptual underpinnings and practice in the following domains. History and distinguishing features of public health and population health: The historical development of public health is traced. The distinguishing features of public health, emphasising the health of groups and populations rather than a focus on the health of an individual, are presented and explored. Key points of transition in the health of populations over time are identified. The scientific disciplines that make up the toolbox of modern population health are described. Determinants of the health of individuals, groups and populations: Determinants of health affecting the health of individuals, and populations are identified, recognising that social determinants work in concert with environmental and biological factors. The health of Indigenous people in Australia is examined and resources provided to assist in understanding common influences on the health of Indigenous people world-wide. The increasing importance of health and human rights locally and globally is discussed, including an examination of the ethical frameworks relevant to public health practice. Strategies and Systems: Major strategies and approaches to public health including health protection, health improvement and health care quality assessment are presented, with illustrations from local and international experience. The elements and function of health systems are defined and the roles of principal public health agencies internationally and nationally are described. Achievements and challenges: The significant achievements in public health from the late 20 th century through to the 21 st century are identified and emerging challenges and possible solutions are explored, including in relation to Indigenous populations. |
| Planetary and Global Health · 12.5 pts |
Improving global health in the long term requires a deep appreciation of the impact of environmental issues at local, national and global scales. To facilitate depth of learning, this subject focuses on five key public health threats that require complex multidisciplinary solutions, which are: climate change; poor sanitation and water security; nuclear weapons; air pollution and COVID-19. Students of this subject will explore these interrelated planetary challenges, their profound implications for population health, and the demand for high level integrated problem solving in the coming decades. Students will become familiar with and critique relevant policies and international agreements pertaining to environmental health. Students will also learn to identify complex systems and barriers implicated in processes of responding to environmental challenges on global, national and local scales. This subject involves interactive sessions and is facilitated by internationally recognised experts in this field. Planetary and Global Health is a dual delivery block mode intensive subject. This means that the assessable material is delivered through self-directed online modules that students complete over a two-week period. The online modules offer flexibility in relation to the timing of when students complete them, or what hours of the day you may choose to study. However, allocated modules must be completed in time to allow effective participation in live interactive sessions that are linked with those modules. Live interactive sessions are held on six days across the two week period, in which module material is discussed with fellow students and lecturers. Students may choose to attend these live sessions online or face to face. Students are expected to commit approximately 40 hours to learning each week, comprised of learning modules, reading, discussion board activities, group work and live sessions. This two-week teaching period is followed by group work and independent learning towards three pieces of assessment to be completed over four weeks. |
Students must complete at least 12.5 points from the following compulsory capstone subjects - please note that if you select either a 25 or 50 point research project that spreads across two semesters you must enrol into the Part 1 and Part 2 subjects over consecutive semesters. Students completing the 100 point pathway will normally be exempt from this requirement
| Accordion | |
|---|---|
| Environmental Research Review (12.5) · 12.5 pts |
This subject allows students to conduct an original literature review of research relevant to clearly specified area of environment and sustainability. The project comprises a substantial review of a body of literature or an evaluation of research or experimental protocols. The specific focus of the literature review will be initiated by the student arising from their keen interests and consultations with other networks and academic staff with relevant expertise. Proposals for projects must be submitted to the subject coordinator in the semester prior to commencement in the subject. Final approval for the topic lies with the subject co-ordinator. The work will be equivalent to lecture and practical based subjects worth 12.5 points The work commitment includes regular one hour meetings with supervisors where students report on progress, difficulties and research plans. Workshops conducted by the subject coordinator will deliver skill development in research practice including oral and written report presentation, with a focus on communication of research in interdisciplinary contexts. |
| Environmental Research Project (25) · 25 pts |
This subject allows students to conduct an independent, original research project in a specified area of environment and sustainability. The project comprises a review of a body of literature, a review and discussion of methodology and/ or an evaluation of research or experimental protocols and some original research. The specific focus of the research project will be initiated by the student arising from their keen interests and consultations with other networks and academic staff with relevant expertise. Proposals for research projects must be submitted to the subject coordinator in the semester prior to commencement in the subject. Final approval for the topic lies with the subject co-ordinator. The work will be equivalent to lecture and practical based subjects worth 25 points. The work commitment includes regular one hour meetings with supervisors where students report on progress, difficulties and research plans. Workshops conducted by the subject coordinator will deliver skill development in research practice including oral and written report presentation, with a focus on communication of research in interdisciplinary contexts. |
| Environmental Research Project (50) · 50 pts |
This subject allows students to conduct a substantial, independent, original research project in a specified area of environment and sustainability. The project comprises a review of a body of literature, a review and discussion of methodology and/ or an evaluation of research or experimental protocols and some original research. The specific focus of the research project will be initiated by the student arising from their keen interests and consultations with other networks and academic staff with relevant expertise. Proposals for research projects must be submitted to the subject coordinator in the semester prior to commencement in the subject. Final approval for the topic lies with the subject co-ordinator. The work will be equivalent to lecture and practical based subjects worth 50 points. The work commitment includes regular one hour meetings with supervisors where students report on progress, difficulties and research plans. Workshops conducted by the subject coordinator will deliver skill development in research practice including oral and written report presentation, with a focus on communication of research in interdisciplinary contexts. |
| Environmental Industry Research (25) · 25 pts |
This subject allows students to conduct an independent, original research project in a specified area of environment and sustainability, in collaboration with an industry partner. The project addresses a real world problem in an industry context and comprises a review of a body of literature, a review and discussion of methodology and/ or an evaluation of research or experimental protocols and some original research. The specific focus of the research project will be initiated by either the student arising from their keen interests and consultations with other networks and academic staff with relevant expertise, or by an industry partner. Proposals for research projects must be submitted to the subject coordinator in the semester prior to commencement in the subject. Final approval for the topic lies with the subject co-ordinator. The work will be equivalent to lecture and practical based subjects worth 25 points. The work commitment includes regular one hour meetings with academic and industry partner supervisors where students report on progress, difficulties and research plans. Workshops conducted by the subject coordinator will deliver skill development in research practice including oral and written report presentation, with a focus on communication of research in interdisciplinary contexts. |
| Environmental Industry Research (50) · 50 pts |
This subject allows students to conduct an substantial independent, original research project in a specified area of environment and sustainability, in collaboration with an industry partner. The project addresses a real world problem in an industry context and comprises a review of a body of literature, a review and discussion of methodology and/ or an evaluation of research or experimental protocols and some original research. The specific focus of the research project will be initiated by either the student arising from their keen interests and consultations with other networks and academic staff with relevant expertise, or by an industry partner. Proposals for research projects must be submitted to the subject coordinator in the semester prior to commencement in the subject. Final approval for the topic lies with the subject coordinator. The work will be equivalent to lecture and practical based subjects worth 25 points. The work commitment includes regular one hour meetings with academic and industry partner supervisors where students report on progress, difficulties and research plans. Workshops conducted by the subject coordinator will deliver skill development in research practice including oral and written report presentation, with a focus on communication of research in interdisciplinary contexts. |
| Internship in Development · 12.5 pts |
Internship in Development is an elective subject available to graduate students in Development and various cognate disciplines and fields of study. The internship subject aims to provide students with the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills learnt in class and enhance their understanding of the current approaches to the broad field of development through a structured period of contributing as a temporary staff member in a government, non-government or private corporation inside or outside Australia. Students are able to select a host organisation to further develop their knowledge and skills in their chosen area of interest. The exposure to a different cultural, socio-political or organisational context provides students with vast opportunities to critically reflect on the relationship between theory and practice, and the thus the nature of development as they have studied it and as they observe it to be approached or practiced during their internship placement. |
| International Internship in Environment · 25 pts |
International Internship in the Environment is an elective subject available to students in the Master of Geography, Master of Environment or Master of Ecosystem Management and Conservation. Eligible students gain subject credit for a placement with an organisation based in another country. It provides students with the opportunity to gain exposure to a different cultural setting and to think critically about the nature of the relationship between theory and practice. The broad aim of the internship is to provide the opportunity for graduate students to gain invaluable practical experience and to build their networks with industry, government or NGOs in order to further enhance their knowledge and skills in their chosen area of study. Students will have the chance to make a positive contribution to the host organisation by applying their previous experience, skills and knowledge gained through study. To enrol into this subject students will be in the final 100 points of their Masters’ degree in the semester they intend to enrol. Students will be responsible for identifying a suitable work placement prior to the semester and seek coordinator permission one semester prior to enrolling into this subject. Application for credit needs to be submitted via the Internships Portal at least 3 weeks prior to internship commencement and within the Key Dates mentioned on the website. Students undertaking the International Internship in Environment subject may have some additional flexibility for placements that extend beyond these dates. However, applications must be submitted before the application deadline. More information is available on the subject webpage here: https://science.unimelb.edu.au/students/plan-your-study/internship-subjects. If you have questions on how and where to find internship, you should contact the Careers and Industry team in the Faculty of Science at hyperlink: https://forms.your.unimelb.edu.au/4747166?SID=a3xOY000000018z Students will complete all necessary internship and travel paperwork PRIOR to enrolment in the subject. Students will generally need to meet the cost of travel and subsistence in the destination country. Completion of Internship Placement and Risk Assessment form and the on-line Student Travel Registration https://safety.unimelb.edu.au/management/implement |
| Industry Internship · 12.5 pts |
This subject involves completion of a minimum 80 hours work placement integrating academic learning, employability skills and attributes, and an improved knowledge of organisations, workplace culture and career pathways. The placement is supplemented by pre- and post-placement classes designed to introduce skills for developing, identifying and articulating employability skills and attributes and linking them to employer requirements. The placement should draw on specific discipline skills associated with the course of enrolment. Pre-placement seminars will also include consideration of career planning and professional skills. The placement is designed to be a standalone internship not integrated into any other subject. Students are responsible for identifying a suitable work placement prior to the start of semester, and will be assisted by the Subject Coordinator and the Careers and Industry team in the Faculty of Science. In the semester prior to the placement students should access the Careers & Employability Studio: https://careers.unimelb.edu.au/students/career-and-employability-drop-in-sessions drop in sessions, workshops and resources to help identify potential host organisations and employment preparation. Students will be responsible for identifying a suitable work placement prior to the semester. Application for credit need to be submitted via the Internships Portal at least 3 weeks prior to internship commencement and within the Key Dates mentioned on the website. More information is available on the subject webpage here: https://science.unimelb.edu.au/students/plan-your-study/internship-subjects. If you have questions on how and where to find internship, you should contact the Careers and Industry team in the Faculty of Science at hyperlink: https://forms.your.unimelb.edu.au/4747166?SID=a3xOY000000018z On completion of the subject, students will have completed and reported on a course-related project in a workplace. They will also have enhanced employability skills including communication, interpersonal, analytical and problem-solving skills, organisation and time-management, and an understanding of career planning and professional development. |
| Environmental Research Project - 25 Pt1 · 12.5 pts |
This subject allows students to conduct an independent, original research project in a specified area of environment and sustainability. The project comprises a review of a body of literature, a review and discussion of methodology and/ or an evaluation of research or experimental protocols and some original research. The specific focus of the research project will be initiated by the student arising from their keen interests and consultations with other networks and academic staff with relevant expertise. Proposals for research projects must be submitted to the subject coordinator in the semester prior to commencement in the subject. Final approval for the topic lies with the subject co-ordinator. The work will be equivalent to lecture and practical based subjects worth 25 points. The work commitment includes regular one hour meetings with supervisors where students report on progress, difficulties and research plans. Workshops conducted by the subject coordinator will deliver skill development in research practice including oral and written report presentation, with a focus on communication of research in interdisciplinary contexts. Students enrol in the Part 1 subject in the first semester and the Part 2 subject in the second semester. |
| Environmental Research Project - 25 Pt2 · 12.5 pts |
This subject allows students to conduct an independent, original research project in a specified area of environment and sustainability. The project comprises a review of a body of literature, a review and discussion of methodology and/ or an evaluation of research or experimental protocols and some original research. The specific focus of the research project will be initiated by the student arising from their keen interests and consultations with other networks and academic staff with relevant expertise. Proposals for research projects must be submitted to the subject coordinator in the semester prior to commencement in the subject. Final approval for the topic lies with the subject co-ordinator. The work will be equivalent to lecture and practical based subjects worth 25 points. The work commitment includes regular one hour meetings with supervisors where students report on progress, difficulties and research plans. Workshops conducted by the subject coordinator will deliver skill development in research practice including oral and written report presentation, with a focus on communication of research in interdisciplinary contexts. Students enrol in the Part 1 subject in the first semester and the Part 2 subject in the second semester. |
| Environmental Research Project - 50 Pt1 · 25 pts |
This subject allows students to conduct a substantial, independent, original research project in a specified area of environment and sustainability. The project comprises a review of a body of literature, a review and discussion of methodology and/ or an evaluation of research or experimental protocols and some original research. The specific focus of the research project will be initiated by the student arising from their keen interests and consultations with other networks and academic staff with relevant expertise. Proposals for research projects must be submitted to the subject coordinator in the semester prior to commencement in the subject. Final approval for the topic lies with the subject coordinator. The work will be equivalent to lecture and practical based subjects worth 50 points. The work commitment includes regular one hour meetings with supervisors where students report on progress, difficulties and research plans. Workshops conducted by the subject coordinator will deliver skill development in research practice including oral and written report presentation, with a focus on communication of research in interdisciplinary contexts. Students enrol in the Part 1 subject in the first semester and the Part 2 subject in the second semester. |
| Environmental Research Project - 50 Pt2 · 25 pts |
This subject allows students to conduct a substantial, independent, original research project in a specified area of environment and sustainability. The project comprises a review of a body of literature, a review and discussion of methodology and/ or an evaluation of research or experimental protocols and some original research. The specific focus of the research project will be initiated by the student arising from their keen interests and consultations with other networks and academic staff with relevant expertise. Proposals for research projects must be submitted to the subject coordinator in the semester prior to commencement in the subject. Final approval for the topic lies with the subject co-ordinator. The work will be equivalent to lecture and practical based subjects worth 50 points. The work commitment includes regular one hour meetings with supervisors where students report on progress, difficulties and research plans. Workshops conducted by the subject coordinator will deliver skill development in research practice including oral and written report presentation, with a focus on communication of research in interdisciplinary contexts. Students enrol in the Part 1 subject in the first semester and the Part 2 subject in the second semester. |
| Environmental Industry Research - 25 Pt1 · 12.5 pts |
This subject allows students to conduct an independent, original research project in a specified area of environment and sustainability, in collaboration with an industry partner. The project addresses a real world problem in an industry context and comprises a review of a body of literature, a review and discussion of methodology and/ or an evaluation of research or experimental protocols and some original research. The specific focus of the research project will be initiated by either the student arising from their keen interests and consultations with other networks and academic staff with relevant expertise, or by an industry partner. Proposals for research projects must be submitted to the subject coordinator in the semester prior to commencement in the subject. Final approval for the topic lies with the subject co-ordinator. The work will be equivalent to lecture and practical based subjects worth 25 points. The work commitment includes regular one hour meetings with academic and industry partner supervisors where students report on progress, difficulties and research plans. Workshops conducted by the subject coordinator will deliver skill development in research practice including oral and written report presentation, with a focus on communication of research in interdisciplinary contexts. Students enrol in the Part 1 subject in the first semester and the Part 2 subject in the second semester |
| Environmental Industry Research - 25 Pt2 · 12.5 pts |
This subject allows students to conduct an independent, original research project in a specified area of environment and sustainability, in collaboration with an industry partner. The project addresses a real world problem in an industry context and comprises a review of a body of literature, a review and discussion of methodology and/ or an evaluation of research or experimental protocols and some original research. The specific focus of the research project will be initiated by either the student arising from their keen interests and consultations with other networks and academic staff with relevant expertise, or by an industry partner. Proposals for research projects must be submitted to the subject coordinator in the semester prior to commencement in the subject. Final approval for the topic lies with the subject co-ordinator. The work will be equivalent to lecture and practical based subjects worth 25 points. The work commitment includes regular one hour meetings with academic and industry partner supervisors where students report on progress, difficulties and research plans. Workshops conducted by the subject coordinator will deliver skill development in research practice including oral and written report presentation, with a focus on communication of research in interdisciplinary contexts. Students enrol in the Part 1 subject in the first semester and the Part 2 subject in the second semester |
| Environmental Industry Research - 50 Pt1 · 25 pts |
This subject allows students to conduct an substantial independent, original research project in a specified area of environment and sustainability, in collaboration with an industry partner. The project addresses a real world problem in an industry context and comprises a review of a body of literature, a review and discussion of methodology and/ or an evaluation of research or experimental protocols and some original research. The specific focus of the research project will be initiated by either the student arising from their keen interests and consultations with other networks and academic staff with relevant expertise, or by an industry partner. Proposals for research projects must be submitted to the subject coordinator in the semester prior to commencement in the subject. Final approval for the topic lies with the subject co-ordinator. The work will be equivalent to lecture and practical based subjects worth 25 points. The work commitment includes regular one hour meetings with academic and industry partner supervisors where students report on progress, difficulties and research plans. Workshops conducted by the subject coordinator will deliver skill development in research practice including oral and written report presentation, with a focus on communication of research in interdisciplinary contexts. Students enrol in the Part 1 subject in the first semester and the Part 2 subject in the second semester. |
| Environmental Industry Research - 50 Pt2 · 25 pts |
This subject allows students to conduct an substantial independent, original research project in a specified area of environment and sustainability, in collaboration with an industry partner. The project addresses a real world problem in an industry context and comprises a review of a body of literature, a review and discussion of methodology and/ or an evaluation of research or experimental protocols and some original research. The specific focus of the research project will be initiated by either the student arising from their keen interests and consultations with other networks and academic staff with relevant expertise, or by an industry partner. Proposals for research projects must be submitted to the subject coordinator in the semester prior to commencement in the subject. Final approval for the topic lies with the subject co-ordinator. The work will be equivalent to lecture and practical based subjects worth 25 points. The work commitment includes regular one hour meetings with academic and industry partner supervisors where students report on progress, difficulties and research plans. Workshops conducted by the subject coordinator will deliver skill development in research practice including oral and written report presentation, with a focus on communication of research in interdisciplinary contexts. Students enrol in the Part 1 subject in the first semester and the Part 2 subject in the second semester. |
| Internship in Development · 25 pts |
Internship in Development is an elective subject available to graduate students in Development and various cognate disciplines and fields of study. This subject aims to provide students with the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills learnt in class and enhance their understanding of the current approaches to the broad field of development through a structured period of contributing as a temporary staff member in a government, non-government or private corporation inside or outside Australia. Students are able to select a host organisation to further develop their knowledge and skills in their chosen area of interest. The exposure to a different cultural, socio-political or organisational context provides students with vast opportunities to critically reflect on the relationship between theory and practice, and the thus the nature of development as they have studied it and as they observe it to be approached or practiced during their internship placement. |
| Science and Technology Internship · 12.5 pts |
This subject involves completion of an 80-100 hour science or technology work placement integrating academic learning in science areas of study, employability skills and attributes and an improved knowledge of science and technology organisations, workplace culture and career pathways. The placement is supplemented by pre- and post-placement classes designed to develop an understanding of science and technology professions, introduce skills for developing, identifying and articulating employability skills and attributes and linking them to employer requirements in the science and technology domains. Work conducted during the placement will be suitable for a graduate level of expertise and experience. While immersed in a work environment, students will be expected to challenge themselves by accepting roles and responsibilities that stretch their existing capabilities. They will interrogate the requirements of specific careers and continually monitor their own progress towards developing the necessary knowledge, skills and attributes to thrive in these roles. Students will be responsible for identifying a suitable work placement prior to the semester. Application for credit need to be submitted via the Internships Portal at least 3 weeks prior to internship commencement and within the Key Dates mentioned on the website. More information is available on the subject webpage here: https://science.unimelb.edu.au/students/plan-your-study/internship-subjects. If you have questions on how and where to find internship, you should contact the Careers and Industry team in the Faculty of Science at hyperlink: https://forms.your.unimelb.edu.au/4747166?SID=a3xOY000000018z On completion of the subject, students will have completed and reported on a course-related project in a science or technology workplace. They will also have enhanced employability skills including communication, interpersonal, analytical and problem-solving, organisational and time-management, and an understanding of career planning and professional development. |
Students should make up the balance of the award with electives. Subjects in the list below are recommended. Other subjects may be taken with the approval of specialisation coordinator
| Accordion | |
|---|---|
| Biostatistics · 12.5 pts |
This subject is compulsory for students enrolled in the Master of Public Health, Master of Epidemiology and the Master of Science (Epidemiology). Students should enrol in this subject early in their program of study. |
| Conservation and Cultural Environments · 12.5 pts |
This subject provides students with advanced level analysis and interpretation of the range of issues associated with the conservation and management of cultural environments. The subject advances student knowledge of cross cultural issues as they relate to natural and cultural resource management in diverse socio-cultural environments and examines specific issues pertaining to the evaluation and management of cultural resources. The range of topics includes conservation trends; world heritage cultural landscapes; heritage and conservation management tensions; valuing nature through diverse knowledge interfaces; and the reclamation of ethnographic images and objects by indigenous and local peoples |
| Environmental Chemistry · 12.5 pts |
This subject delves into the intricate chemistry of Earth's environmental systems, with a focus on the interconnected realms of the hydrosphere, atmosphere, and lithosphere (soil). Through an exploration of the structure, composition, and chemical processes within these systems, students will gain a deeper understanding of the delicate balances that sustain life on our planet. Additionally, students will examine the influence of human activities on environmental health and learn how environmental data informs the development of protective measures at both national and international levels. Key topics include:
A key aspect of this subject will be the investigation of a current advanced environmental chemistry issue that will be covered in lecture material during weeks 7 and 8. The students will work in a small group for this assignment. The practical component of this subject will involve the application of titrimetric, optical (spectrophotometry, atomic absorption/emission spectrometries) and chromatographic (gas chromatography, high performance liquid chromatography) analytical techniques commonly used in environmental chemistry. |
| Social Impact Assessment and Evaluation · 12.5 pts |
This subject develops the skills to understand and assess the social impacts of development, including international development projects, resource management, and proposed infrastructure or new policies. We do this in two ways: by looking at how to assess the impacts of proposed projects, and through evaluation techniques for existing developments or projects. In each case we develop practical skills and interdisciplinary techniques to appraise and evaluate impacts. These techniques draw from anthropology, development studies, and the policy sciences, and move beyond simple summative assessments and financial accounting. We consider the social and environmental contexts in which any form of appraisal is embedded, and the capacities of different actors (from the state to NGOs and community groups) to avert or mitigate negative impacts through learning, negotiation, and citizen participation. Examples, some presented by guest speakers, are drawn from Australia, Europe, the Americas, Africa, and Asia. At the completion of the subject students will have developed the conceptual skills to understand the impacts of development; be familiar with the range of methodologies and techniques used in impact assessment; understand development evaluation; and will be able to apply this in critical evaluation of the impact of projects and programmes. |
| Environmental Risk Assessment · 12.5 pts |
Environmental Risk Assessment aims to provide you with the skills to undertake and critically evaluate environmental risk assessments. We outline the history and social context of risk and explore the psychology of risk perception. You will be introduced to quantitative and qualitative tools with the objective of giving you the ability to select, apply and assess technical and socially based risk assessment. The subject is structured to develop your skills in writing reports and participating in group exercises. The subject is made up of lectures in the mornings and practical exercises in the afternoons. It assumes no formal background in quantitative methods. An understanding of basic statistical concepts (means, medians, standard deviations, confidence intervals, basic linear regression) is an advantage. If you have not been involved in an undergraduate statistics class before, contact the subject coordinator to discuss your options. |
| Environmental Impact Assessment · 12.5 pts |
This subject prepares students for environmental management roles by providing them with the principles of how human impacts on the environment might be detected and managed. The principles will be placed within the legal and social contexts of environmental impact assessment. At the completion of the subject, students should understand three aspects: prediction of the kind of changes that might occur with human activities; the design and implementation of proper monitoring programs that can detect changes; and assessment of those changes. Additionally, a strong emphasis is placed on the practical implementation of principles. |
| Environmental Law · 12.5 pts |
This subject is designed as an overview of environmental law for students without a legal background who are admitted to courses through the Office for Environmental Programs. It provides students with an understanding of the sources and conceptual foundations of environmental law and aims to develop the ability and confidence of students to understand and critically analyse environmental regulation as an approach to environmental issues. The subject will provide an examination of the development and current scope of Australian environmental law, with a focus on the Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Cth) and Victorian pollution control laws . There will also be an introduction to international environmental law. Indicative list of principal topics:
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| Health Promotion · 12.5 pts |
Students will have the opportunity to learn the history of health promotion and the models of health and health promotion, along with key theoretical approaches explaining change in individuals, organisations and systems. |
| Health Program Evaluation 1 · 12.5 pts |
This subject examines the diverse purposes health program evaluations can serve and the wide range of environments in which health program evaluations are conducted. Using Australian and overseas evaluation examples, students gain an overview of conceptual and methodological issues in the key evaluation approaches. The three major stages in the conduct of an evaluation are covered: planning and negotiating the terms and design of the evaluation; data collection and analysis; and the provision of findings. Each stage is considered through example and critique of those examples, with opportunities to apply these skills in the development of an evaluation plan for a real, work-based program. |
| Women and Global Health · 12.5 pts |
Developing and newly-industrialised countries experience wide variation in terms of history, politics, demographic transition, development and epidemiology. This subject situates women and their health in a dynamic context of development, globalisation and change. It examines key health issues, primarily for women in the Asian and Pacific Regions, but also in other international contexts, and explores factors that impact on health and illness throughout the lifespan. Gender, rights and ‘empowerment’ provide frameworks for analysis. |
| Disability in Policy and Practice · 12.5 pts |
Disability inclusion is now a global health and development priority. This includes translating 2030 Agenda and Sustainable Development Goal commitments to disability inclusion, and leaving no one behind, into practice. Without disability inclusion we cannot end poverty for all and achieve universal health coverage. Ensuring the inclusion of people with disability in health and development processes, systems, and programs is increasingly required under law in both lower and higher income settings. An understanding of disability inclusive policy and practice is becoming essential knowledge for researchers, practitioners, and policy makers. An estimated 16% of the world’s population has a disability, with 80% of people with disability living in resource poor contexts. People with disability are systematically excluded from social, economic, and political participation. In turn, people with disability are more likely to live in poverty, have poorer health outcomes, lower education attainment, and be negatively impacted by climate risk than people without disability. In this short course, you will learn to critically analyse the factors that contribute to these inequities and develop strategies for improving policy and practice. Drawing on practitioner experience, including from people with disability themselves, this course will provide you with a foundation for critically considering issues of equity, representation, intersectionality, and meaningful participation. We will draw on real world examples from multiple sectors, including health, employment, education, and disaster risk reduction and humanitarian response. If you are working, or considering working, in global health and development, including in government, non-government, or United Nations agencies, this subject provides an essential foundation. This course can be taken by students in postgraduate courses, including public health, development studies, and social studies, or through the University of Melbourne Community Access Program (CAP). |
| Health Program Evaluation 2 · 12.5 pts |
This subject provides an extension of studies in Health Program Evaluation introduced in Health Program Evaluation 1, aiming to deepen the students understanding of the conceptual bases of evaluation and extend practical skills. Its focus is particularly on issues relating to the selection and development of an appropriate evaluation approach and methods for a particular health program, policy or service. The subject provides an initial grounding in the theoretical origins of program evaluation, contemporary approaches to evaluation as well as implementation science and knowledge translation. The subject then considers the development of an evaluation approach and design from an applied perspective. Case-studies of evaluations will be presented to provide an opportunity to consider theoretical, methodological and practical issues associated with the conduct of complex health program evaluations. Students will have an opportunity to develop evaluation proposals in response to real world funding and policy settings. |
| Introduction to Economic Evaluation · 12.5 pts |
This subject provides an introduction to the principles, concepts and methods of economic evaluation and their application to health care and public health. Students are introduced to the foundations of economic evaluation in economic theory and the principal methods used by health economists: cost benefit analysis, cost effectiveness analysis, cost consequences analysis and cost utility analysis. In each case, the steps involved in identifying, measuring and valuing incremental costs and outcomes will be explained. Students will learn the key elements of an economic evaluation study design and be able to critically review economic evaluation studies. Contemporary issues and approaches in economic evaluation will be introduced, including the use of distributional cost effectiveness to capture reductions in inequality; and subjective wellbeing and other approaches for extending the measurement of benefit beyond the Quality Adjusted Life Year (QALY) |
| Infectious Disease Epidemiology · 12.5 pts |
The epidemiology of infectious diseases differs from chronic disease - cases may be the source of infection for further cases, immunity is an important factor in disease transmission and control, and there is often the need for urgency in the detection and response to disease. This subject introduces students to the strategies used to identify and respond to infectious disease problems. Content is updated weekly to incorporate topical infectious disease events, and emphasis is given to a practical understanding and application of infectious disease epidemiology. Students will learn the basic principles of infectious disease surveillance and response, and will develop the terminology, and written and oral skills for effective reporting. Students will also develop problem-solving skills in scenario-based exercises. |
| Primary Health Care: applied principles · 12.5 pts |
The 1978 Alma Ata Declaration was a watershed moment in the development of health systems globally. It influenced the evolution of primary health care (PHC) and health practice, especially community and global health. This subject will cover the principles and approaches of community-based PHC with particular focus on the broader influence of PHC across health systems and achieving positive outcomes for all; specifically the most vulnerable and in-need. The core focus of the subject is on the principles of PHC as enshrined in the Alma Ata declaration and how they have been applied in practice with specific emphasis on the evidence for effectiveness and critical review of when, how and whether they should be applied. Engaging with the history, principles, and key elements of PHC, students will examine the various roles of community health groups, and workers' approaches to disease control; the role of global agencies and local health systems; contemporary applications of the principles of PHC across low, middle, and high-income settings highlighting the need for equitable access; and the current demographic and epidemiological trends PHC is challenged to address. Drawing on global case studies and experience presented by experts with extensive applied experience, students will acquire a comprehensive understanding of the theory and practice of individual and community participation in PHC, as well as integrated, multi-sectoral and equity-based approaches to achieving improved health. Students will develop the skills and strategies to critically examine PHC approaches and program design, and the current health and health system trends influencing community based PHC globally. ‘Primary Health Care: applied principles’ is a dual delivery block mode intensive subject. This means that the assessable material is delivered through self-directed online modules that students complete over a two-week period. The online modules offer flexibility in relation to the timing of when students complete them, or what hours of the day you may choose to study. However, allocated modules should be completed in time to allow effective participation in live interactive sessions that are linked with those modules. Live interactive sessions are held on six days across the two-week period, in which module material is discussed with fellow students and lecturers. Students may choose to attend these live sessions online or face to face. Students are expected to commit approximately 40 hours to learning each teaching week, comprised of learning modules, reading, discussion board activities, group work and live sessions. This two-week teaching period is followed by group work and independent learning towards three pieces of assessment to be completed over six weeks. This subject is a Melbourne located alternative to POPH90137 “Primary Health Care in Jamkhed, India”. Students may not take both subjects. |
| Primary Health Care, Jamkhed, India · 12.5 pts |
The Comprehensive Rural Health Project (CRHP) in Jamkhed, India has won global acclaim and provided inspiration for the seminal Declaration of Alma Ata (1978). It remains one of the world’s most influential and innovative comprehensive community health and development programs. In this 3 week residential subject, students will learn about the Jamkhed Model while living in the resource-poor context of central Maharashtra, India. Students will engage with and critically analyse the Jamkhed approach to community health and development via: field visits to villages and project sites; seminars and discussions with project staff, lay volunteers, local health and development professionals and researchers; and interactive observations and teaching with university staff. Students of this subject will gain a thorough understanding of the context and history of comprehensive primary health care as a movement, and its applications within the Indian context. Students will acquire detailed knowledge of how the CRHP has applied a community-based, integrated multi-sectoral action, utilising a deep understanding of local culture and needs to address a wide range of issues. These include mortality and morbidity, poverty, gender inequity, and water and sanitation. Students will learn how to apply these principles in the design of programs seeking to address a variety of global health problems and contexts. Enrolment in this subject requires direct application to The Nossal Institute for Global Health, please proceed to the Nossal Institute website for further information and access to online application at https://mspgh.unimelb.edu.au/centres-institutes/nossal-institute-for-global-health/study/PHC-Jamkhed/ |
| Health Program Design & Implementation · 12.5 pts |
An increasing global focus on program effectiveness and efficiency has brought renewed attention to the role of evidence in designing and implementing health programs. Students of this subject will engage with the discipline of implementation science, and will investigate a range of current theories and approaches to program design, including: Theory of Change; program logic models; logical frameworks; complexity theory; behaviour change theories; emergent design; participatory/co-design approaches; and approaches to scale-up. Facilitated by experts with applied field experience in program design and implementation in Australia and other global contexts, students will learn via practical, staged exercises to draft strategic program plans. A range of case studies on current health challenges and interventions will build students’ knowledge and skills in evidence-based health program design and implementation. Cross-cutting issues in program design will also be considered and applied to case studies, particularly the issues of participation and inclusion. Students will be asked to consider evidence requirements and real-world compromises in programmatic research and planning within Australian and other global settings. This subject will equip students with the knowledge and skills to operationalise their program design skills through best practice approaches to program implementation. Health Program Design & Implementation is a block mode intensive subject. It has a combination of online content which can studied in each student’s own time, combined with live seminars and workshops held on six days across the two week period. Selection of study mode (online or on campus) determines the mode of attending these seminars and workshops. Students are expected to commit approximately 40 hours to learning each week. |
| Practice of Public Health Leadership · 12.5 pts |
This subject introduces students to the real world of public health. It builds on from the compulsory Public Health Leadership and Management Subject to provide an understanding of how different leaders practice how decisions are made and how resources are allocated; an understanding of the organisation you work in and lastly an understanding of yourself as a leader. |
| Advanced Qualitative Health Research · 12.5 pts |
This subject will build advanced skills in designing and conducting qualitative health research, further developing students’ basic knowledge of qualitative research methods. This includes the development of advanced skills in data collection and analytic methods, strategies to respond to the challenges and complexity associated with qualitative research in the field. Students will have the opportunity to workshop and practice these skills during the intensive teaching period. Students will also develop a comprehensive understanding of the theoretical perspectives used in qualitative research. The subject will also cover ethics in qualitative research in depth, preparing students to both submit an ethics application and to deal with ethical challenges that arise in the field. The subject will cover all aspects of design, including consideration of issues related to rigour, quality and reflexivity in addition to the introduction of new and emerging methods of data collection. The subject will cover the practicalities of collecting data in another country or community and how to navigate the process of analysis and writing up, whether this is as part of a team, with the community or a solo endeavour. These skills will equip students to undertake qualitative health research in a range of practice contexts, including in health services, with patient groups, with communities, and in order to design and assess the impact of health interventions and policies. |
| Community Engagement for Health Impact · 12.5 pts |
There is increasing global recognition that research and interventions seeking to change the social determinants of health are most impactful when communities are actively engaged in the process. Therefore, many health researchers are looking towards participatory approaches to the co-production of knowledge and health practitioners are increasingly aiming to co-design health interventions with communities, patients or service end-users. This subject will give students an understanding of, and experience in, the principles, processes and some of the methods used in participatory health research. It will illustrate the ways these principles, processes and methods can be applied to the co-design of health interventions, to support patient-public involvement in health, and to user led health research. This subject will be of interest to students wanting to build the necessary skills to support communities to deepen their understanding of their own circumstances, to engage communities in taking action to help resolve conditions undermining health, and to ensure that community engagement maximises positive health impacts. As part of this subject, students will be expected to participate in (a) practical exercises designed to enhance skills and techniques; and (b) workshopping, analysis and reflection of data collected during an in-class research project. |
| Social Determinants of Health Inequality · 12.5 pts |
Our health is shaped by the conditions in which we are born, grow, live, work and age. The unequal distribution of money, power and resources from local to global levels has significant effects on health. This subject will provide an overview of Australian and international evidence on how social, economic, environmental and cultural processes affect population health. More specifically, the subject examines how health and wellbeing are shaped by a range of determinants including gender, poverty, socio-economic position, housing, employment and working conditions, race/ethnicity, discrimination and place. Students also explore structural barriers associated with colonialism, sexism, ableism, racism, stigma and violence. By integrating evidence from across these topics, this subject will use contemporary examples to unpack how health inequalities are generated and how health interventions might generate more equitable outcomes in population health. |
| Health Policy · 12.5 pts |
The subject explores the policy decisions, usually made by governments, that determine present and future country or regional level objectives relating to health services; programs; and the regulatory, organisational, social, cultural, physical and natural environments that contribute to population health and well-being. The subject explores the nature of health policy, types of policy instruments, and policy making processes including agenda setting and policy influencing frameworks and theories. The role of evidence in policy formation including the significance of the balance between effectiveness, efficiency and equity as objectives of health policy will be debated. In doing so, students will be introduced to the importance and process of policy analysis and explore the relevant legal, political, managerial, sociological, ethical, epidemiological and economic perspectives to instrument selection and policy implementation across a range of health policy contexts. Australian and international country contexts will be used throughout the subject. |
| Comparative Health Systems · 12.5 pts |
A thorough comprehension of the different institutions, structures and processes that constitute health systems globally provides a strong platform for further studies and varied career paths in population and global health. This subject provides students with the analytical frameworks to explore the social and political dynamics, institutions and structures that constitute health systems globally. This subject is delivered by a cross-disciplinary team of experts working in health systems strengthening and analysis, and draws on contemporary research and examples from across Australia, the Asia and Pacific regions and other global contexts. Students of this subject will develop and apply skills in critical and comparative analysis of health systems in a range of countries and in settings with varied levels of socio-economic development. Issues addressed in this subject include, but may not be limited to: global disparities in health system expenditures and outcomes; the characteristics of different health financing systems; health system structures; health system reform and performance measurement; health system strengthening approaches and strategies; intergovernmental relations and development assistance for health; health workforce supply and policy; general practice and primary healthcare; complementary health systems and health system orientation for Indigenous peoples; and the multi-level policy processes that inform health system decision-making. Comparative Health Systems is a dual delivery block mode intensive subject. This means that the assessable material is delivered through self-directed online modules that students complete over a six-week period. The online modules offer flexibility in relation to the timing of when students complete them, or what hours of the day you may choose to study. However, allocated modules must be completed in time to allow effective participation in live interactive sessions that are linked with those modules. Live interactive sessions are held on six days across the six-week period, in which module material is discussed with fellow students and lecturers. Students may choose to attend these live sessions online or face to face. Students are expected to commit approximately 8-10 hours to learning each week, comprised of learning modules, reading, discussion board activities, group work and live sessions. This six-week teaching period is followed by independent learning towards a major assessment to be completed over six weeks. |
| Public Health in Practice · 12.5 pts |
This subject is a capstone subject within the Master of Public Health. In this subject, students will have the opportunity to apply the knowledge and skills acquired in the pre-requisite subjects to real-world scenarios through a Problem Based Learning (PBL) approach. Students will be presented with a range of contemporary public health issues that will require them to consider an appropriate population health response. These scenarios will expose students to a range of public health roles, perspectives and problems that they, as future public health practitioners, may be presented with in the real-world setting. |
| Health Economics 2 · 12.5 pts |
This subject builds on and extends the theoretical and analytical approaches to health economics introduced in Health Economics 1. The aim is to enhance students’ ability to undertake economic analysis of health, health care and health policy issues using quantitative approaches appropriate to the data and economic theory underlying the analysis. The subject introduces students to the most common econometric and impact evaluation methods used in empirical health economics research to conduct economic analysis of health, health care and public health related issues. |
| Planetary and Global Health · 12.5 pts |
Improving global health in the long term requires a deep appreciation of the impact of environmental issues at local, national and global scales. To facilitate depth of learning, this subject focuses on five key public health threats that require complex multidisciplinary solutions, which are: climate change; poor sanitation and water security; nuclear weapons; air pollution and COVID-19. Students of this subject will explore these interrelated planetary challenges, their profound implications for population health, and the demand for high level integrated problem solving in the coming decades. Students will become familiar with and critique relevant policies and international agreements pertaining to environmental health. Students will also learn to identify complex systems and barriers implicated in processes of responding to environmental challenges on global, national and local scales. This subject involves interactive sessions and is facilitated by internationally recognised experts in this field. Planetary and Global Health is a dual delivery block mode intensive subject. This means that the assessable material is delivered through self-directed online modules that students complete over a two-week period. The online modules offer flexibility in relation to the timing of when students complete them, or what hours of the day you may choose to study. However, allocated modules must be completed in time to allow effective participation in live interactive sessions that are linked with those modules. Live interactive sessions are held on six days across the two week period, in which module material is discussed with fellow students and lecturers. Students may choose to attend these live sessions online or face to face. Students are expected to commit approximately 40 hours to learning each week, comprised of learning modules, reading, discussion board activities, group work and live sessions. This two-week teaching period is followed by group work and independent learning towards three pieces of assessment to be completed over four weeks. |
| Qualitative Research in Public Health · 12.5 pts |
This is a compulsory subject in the Master of Public Health. Qualitative research plays an important role in public health as it can explain how people experience a particular health issue or why they perform a health-related behavior, taking into account specific social, political and economic contexts. Public health practitioners need to be able to undertake and interpret a range of published research (including qualitative research) in order to gather evidence for practice, identify gaps in evidence and evaluate current practice. |
| Therapeutic Landscapes · 12.5 pts |
In this subject you will study research, applications and practice of therapeutic landscapes across social, community, horticultural and education settings. The content includes methods and approaches used in therapeutic horticulture, horticultural therapy programs, planning, design and construction of therapeutic landscapes, models and examples of successful practice in school, children and community gardens. Field visits and practical activities form part of the content, with 5hr field trips conducted in weeks 7 and 11 to visit sites in metropolitan Melbourne discussed in the preceding weeks. |
| Healthy Communities · 12.5 pts |
In recent years, there has been a greatly increased interest in the impacts of the built environment on health and wellbeing. At present, spatial inequalities in regards to access to jobs, affordable housing, social services, and healthy food results in a greater burden of disease for particular social groups and in particular geographic areas. Many of the health problems in cities today, including obesity, violence, and depression, are linked to poor residential and recreational environments, lack of access to jobs and social services, and low social cohesion. Urban decision-makers like planners and designers influence physical, social, natural, cultural, and economic environments. They therefore have a key role in ‘planning health in’, rather than ‘planning health out’, of communities. |
| Nutrition Politics and Policy · 12.5 pts |
Formerly FOOD90027 This subject critically examines the scientific, policy and political debates regarding the relationship between food, nutrition and health. The social, economic, commercial, scientific and regulatory processes and structures that shape food consumption patterns, the nutritional quality of foods, and the dietary health of the population will be explored. This includes an evaluation of governments’ food, agricultural and nutrition policies. Topics include:
The subject will draw upon the disciplines of the sociology and politics of food systems, food and nutrition policy, public health nutrition and public health, and will consider Australian and international case studies. |
| Epidemiology 2 · 12.5 pts |
This subject is a core subject within the Master of Science (Epidemiology) and an elective within the Master of Public Health, the Master of Environment, and the Master of Biostatistics. Epidemiology 2 is an in-depth exploration of research study design and development. Within this subject, students will learn contemporary approaches to designing studies for clinical and public health research and analysing their results. Students will develop the skills to design and critique a variety of experimental and observational studies (cluster randomised controlled trials, randomised controlled trial variants, case control study variants and ecological studies). Complex causal diagrams will be introduced to assist with identifying confounders and assessing bias. Students learn how to apply quantitative bias analyses to quantify the direction and magnitude of bias in clinical and public health studies. Additionally, the concept of a target trial will be introduced, and students will learn to apply this method in their future research. Alongside the target trial approach, students will learn the latest analytic strategies to control for confounding, including g-computation and inverse proportional weighting. The subject will also cover the concept of effect-measure modification and how it differs from interaction, and its impact on external validity. By the end of the course, students will be able to estimate the potential effects of population and clinical interventions on a wider population. |
| Epidemiology in Practice · 12.5 pts |
Within ‘Epidemiology in Practice’ students will work to address issues in health and public health by learning and applying epidemiological concepts. Students will learn systematic review and meta-analysis methodology through undertaking a small systematic review and meta-analysis, and then making policy recommendations. Students will also learn questionnaire development principles and apply these principles in appraising and developing a questionnaire. Also in this subject, students will apply the concepts and methods involved in developing studies to assess the validity of questionnaires and tests to real-world examples in health/public health. The purpose and evaluation of screening programs will be discussed and applied to current controversies in screening. Lastly, students will learn about the role of natural experiments and how these study designs can be used to answer policy-relevant questions in public health. |
| The Politics of Food · 12.5 pts |
Formerly FOOD90026 This subject examines the politics of the global food system, and will focus on the policies, structures, power relations and political debates surrounding the production, distribution and consumption of food. The impacts of food production and consumption on food security, health, the environment, animal welfare, and the livelihoods of producers, will be critically explored. Key theoretical frameworks and concepts for understanding the dominant paradigms and dynamics of the food system will be discussed and evaluated. Integrated policies and strategies for creating more sustainable and equitable food systems, and alternative paradigms and practices of production, distribution and consumption, will also be critically examined. This subject will primarily draw on theories and methodologies from the sociology and politics of food and agriculture, food policy, and the political economy and political ecology of food. The topics and debates covered include:
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| Public Health Leadership and Policy · 12.5 pts |
This compulsory subject in the Master of Public Health equips students with the practical skills essential for effective leadership in the public health workforce. Public Health Leadership and Policy introduces key theories and models of leadership, program implementation, and policy change, with a strong emphasis on real-world application. Learning is enriched through case studies of public health significance, expert-led lectures, interactive skill-building sessions, and small-group projects. Students will work collaboratively on major public health initiatives, including an Indigenous health project, to apply their knowledge in meaningful contexts. |
| Sexual and Reproductive Health · 12.5 pts |
This subject provides an introduction to the fundamentals of sexual and reproductive health (SRH) from a public health perspective. Globally minded but locally focused, this subject examines the burden of disease associated with SRH and critically analyses significant factors of influence on SRH at the community and broader societal levels, including sexuality, violence, gender and sexual rights. Topics such as unmet need for contraception, fertility control, sex work and female cutting will also be covered. The development, implementation and evaluation of effective public health programs aimed at improving the SRH of communities will also be explored in the subject. |
| Health Economics 1 · 12.5 pts |
This subject introduces students to health economics as a sub-discipline of economics. Students are provided with a comprehensive introduction to micro-economics, so the subject is suitable for students with no prior knowledge of economics. It paves the way for students to apply micro-economic concepts to the analysis of contemporary issues in public health and health care. Topics to be studied include the following:
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| Internship in Development · 12.5 pts |
Internship in Development is an elective subject available to graduate students in Development and various cognate disciplines and fields of study. The internship subject aims to provide students with the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills learnt in class and enhance their understanding of the current approaches to the broad field of development through a structured period of contributing as a temporary staff member in a government, non-government or private corporation inside or outside Australia. Students are able to select a host organisation to further develop their knowledge and skills in their chosen area of interest. The exposure to a different cultural, socio-political or organisational context provides students with vast opportunities to critically reflect on the relationship between theory and practice, and the thus the nature of development as they have studied it and as they observe it to be approached or practiced during their internship placement. |
| Environmental Research Review (12.5) · 12.5 pts |
This subject allows students to conduct an original literature review of research relevant to clearly specified area of environment and sustainability. The project comprises a substantial review of a body of literature or an evaluation of research or experimental protocols. The specific focus of the literature review will be initiated by the student arising from their keen interests and consultations with other networks and academic staff with relevant expertise. Proposals for projects must be submitted to the subject coordinator in the semester prior to commencement in the subject. Final approval for the topic lies with the subject co-ordinator. The work will be equivalent to lecture and practical based subjects worth 12.5 points The work commitment includes regular one hour meetings with supervisors where students report on progress, difficulties and research plans. Workshops conducted by the subject coordinator will deliver skill development in research practice including oral and written report presentation, with a focus on communication of research in interdisciplinary contexts. |
| Environmental Research Project (25) · 25 pts |
This subject allows students to conduct an independent, original research project in a specified area of environment and sustainability. The project comprises a review of a body of literature, a review and discussion of methodology and/ or an evaluation of research or experimental protocols and some original research. The specific focus of the research project will be initiated by the student arising from their keen interests and consultations with other networks and academic staff with relevant expertise. Proposals for research projects must be submitted to the subject coordinator in the semester prior to commencement in the subject. Final approval for the topic lies with the subject co-ordinator. The work will be equivalent to lecture and practical based subjects worth 25 points. The work commitment includes regular one hour meetings with supervisors where students report on progress, difficulties and research plans. Workshops conducted by the subject coordinator will deliver skill development in research practice including oral and written report presentation, with a focus on communication of research in interdisciplinary contexts. |
| Environmental Research Project (50) · 50 pts |
This subject allows students to conduct a substantial, independent, original research project in a specified area of environment and sustainability. The project comprises a review of a body of literature, a review and discussion of methodology and/ or an evaluation of research or experimental protocols and some original research. The specific focus of the research project will be initiated by the student arising from their keen interests and consultations with other networks and academic staff with relevant expertise. Proposals for research projects must be submitted to the subject coordinator in the semester prior to commencement in the subject. Final approval for the topic lies with the subject co-ordinator. The work will be equivalent to lecture and practical based subjects worth 50 points. The work commitment includes regular one hour meetings with supervisors where students report on progress, difficulties and research plans. Workshops conducted by the subject coordinator will deliver skill development in research practice including oral and written report presentation, with a focus on communication of research in interdisciplinary contexts. |
| Environmental Industry Research (50) · 50 pts |
This subject allows students to conduct an substantial independent, original research project in a specified area of environment and sustainability, in collaboration with an industry partner. The project addresses a real world problem in an industry context and comprises a review of a body of literature, a review and discussion of methodology and/ or an evaluation of research or experimental protocols and some original research. The specific focus of the research project will be initiated by either the student arising from their keen interests and consultations with other networks and academic staff with relevant expertise, or by an industry partner. Proposals for research projects must be submitted to the subject coordinator in the semester prior to commencement in the subject. Final approval for the topic lies with the subject coordinator. The work will be equivalent to lecture and practical based subjects worth 25 points. The work commitment includes regular one hour meetings with academic and industry partner supervisors where students report on progress, difficulties and research plans. Workshops conducted by the subject coordinator will deliver skill development in research practice including oral and written report presentation, with a focus on communication of research in interdisciplinary contexts. |
| Environmental Industry Research (25) · 25 pts |
This subject allows students to conduct an independent, original research project in a specified area of environment and sustainability, in collaboration with an industry partner. The project addresses a real world problem in an industry context and comprises a review of a body of literature, a review and discussion of methodology and/ or an evaluation of research or experimental protocols and some original research. The specific focus of the research project will be initiated by either the student arising from their keen interests and consultations with other networks and academic staff with relevant expertise, or by an industry partner. Proposals for research projects must be submitted to the subject coordinator in the semester prior to commencement in the subject. Final approval for the topic lies with the subject co-ordinator. The work will be equivalent to lecture and practical based subjects worth 25 points. The work commitment includes regular one hour meetings with academic and industry partner supervisors where students report on progress, difficulties and research plans. Workshops conducted by the subject coordinator will deliver skill development in research practice including oral and written report presentation, with a focus on communication of research in interdisciplinary contexts. |
| International Internship in Environment · 25 pts |
International Internship in the Environment is an elective subject available to students in the Master of Geography, Master of Environment or Master of Ecosystem Management and Conservation. Eligible students gain subject credit for a placement with an organisation based in another country. It provides students with the opportunity to gain exposure to a different cultural setting and to think critically about the nature of the relationship between theory and practice. The broad aim of the internship is to provide the opportunity for graduate students to gain invaluable practical experience and to build their networks with industry, government or NGOs in order to further enhance their knowledge and skills in their chosen area of study. Students will have the chance to make a positive contribution to the host organisation by applying their previous experience, skills and knowledge gained through study. To enrol into this subject students will be in the final 100 points of their Masters’ degree in the semester they intend to enrol. Students will be responsible for identifying a suitable work placement prior to the semester and seek coordinator permission one semester prior to enrolling into this subject. Application for credit needs to be submitted via the Internships Portal at least 3 weeks prior to internship commencement and within the Key Dates mentioned on the website. Students undertaking the International Internship in Environment subject may have some additional flexibility for placements that extend beyond these dates. However, applications must be submitted before the application deadline. More information is available on the subject webpage here: https://science.unimelb.edu.au/students/plan-your-study/internship-subjects. If you have questions on how and where to find internship, you should contact the Careers and Industry team in the Faculty of Science at hyperlink: https://forms.your.unimelb.edu.au/4747166?SID=a3xOY000000018z Students will complete all necessary internship and travel paperwork PRIOR to enrolment in the subject. Students will generally need to meet the cost of travel and subsistence in the destination country. Completion of Internship Placement and Risk Assessment form and the on-line Student Travel Registration https://safety.unimelb.edu.au/management/implement |
| Industry Internship · 12.5 pts |
This subject involves completion of a minimum 80 hours work placement integrating academic learning, employability skills and attributes, and an improved knowledge of organisations, workplace culture and career pathways. The placement is supplemented by pre- and post-placement classes designed to introduce skills for developing, identifying and articulating employability skills and attributes and linking them to employer requirements. The placement should draw on specific discipline skills associated with the course of enrolment. Pre-placement seminars will also include consideration of career planning and professional skills. The placement is designed to be a standalone internship not integrated into any other subject. Students are responsible for identifying a suitable work placement prior to the start of semester, and will be assisted by the Subject Coordinator and the Careers and Industry team in the Faculty of Science. In the semester prior to the placement students should access the Careers & Employability Studio: https://careers.unimelb.edu.au/students/career-and-employability-drop-in-sessions drop in sessions, workshops and resources to help identify potential host organisations and employment preparation. Students will be responsible for identifying a suitable work placement prior to the semester. Application for credit need to be submitted via the Internships Portal at least 3 weeks prior to internship commencement and within the Key Dates mentioned on the website. More information is available on the subject webpage here: https://science.unimelb.edu.au/students/plan-your-study/internship-subjects. If you have questions on how and where to find internship, you should contact the Careers and Industry team in the Faculty of Science at hyperlink: https://forms.your.unimelb.edu.au/4747166?SID=a3xOY000000018z On completion of the subject, students will have completed and reported on a course-related project in a workplace. They will also have enhanced employability skills including communication, interpersonal, analytical and problem-solving skills, organisation and time-management, and an understanding of career planning and professional development. |
| Academic English for Graduate Studies · 12.5 pts |
This subject focuses on the advanced language required for successful graduate study in English. In this subject students will develop critical approaches to researching, reading and writing. They will also develop the ability to plan and present confidently on a research topic and to write a literature review fluently and accurately. Particular attention is paid to grammatical and stylistic aspects of written and spoken academic discourse. Students write and present on a research topic that is relevant to their field of study. |
| China and the Environment · 12.5 pts |
This subject provides an introduction to the key environmental challenges in contemporary China and to China’s environmental governance. The subject is structured around four topics: water resources, land resources, air pollution, and energy and climate change. For each of these topics lectures and tutorials will analyse impacts, policy and governance arrangements, citizen and NGO involvement, government and media discourse, and international linkages. Students will be introduced to key theoretical debates in China studies, development studies and human geography to help them understand the complexities of China’s environmental challenges. Using the environment as a lens, students will gain an understanding of politics and state-society relations in contemporary China. |
| Disaster and Humanitarian Aid · 12.5 pts |
This subject explores emergency relief in crisis situations, including both ‘natural’ disasters and armed conflict (or combinations thereof). We will discuss the dynamics of different kinds of disasters, such as droughts, earthquakes, floods, cyclones, armed conflict and displacement, as well as ‘complex emergencies’ where ‘natural’ disasters intermesh with man-made dynamics. Central to ‘natural’ and man-made disasters is the question of vulnerability and resilience: contrary to what international media images tend to suggest, the first response to disaster is always local, and the resilience of the people affected is determining for longer-term outcomes. But international responses can of course play a major role. The subject will therefore explore: international humanitarian principles, policies, and guidelines; the everyday life of humanitarian work; and the challenges and dilemmas of humanitarian aid: how it gets entangled with local political economies; how it gets embroiled in dynamics of conflict; and how it can in fact become part of the problem. We will also examine differences and interlinkages between humanitarian and development interventions, as well as the supposed humanitarian-development ‘continuum’ – the idea that humanitarianism is something that occurs in times of crisis, and that this then gives way to development once the situation is back to ‘normal’. As we will see, disasters are not at all exceptional. They are a normal part of human life; and with the impact of development and climate change, human exposure to disasters is only increasing. Instead of thinking of disasters as unique and exceptional events, shouldn't we be thinking about ‘living with risk’? And, if so, how can that be done? |
| Applied Research Methodology · 12.5 pts |
This subject equips students with practical skills to select appropriate research methodologies for conducting evaluation research across diverse contexts. Students will learn to match evaluation questions and purposes with suitable methodological approaches, considering stakeholder needs, resources, and other contextual factors. Through hands-on activities, students will develop competencies in designing applied studies to suit different contexts and evaluative purposes. The subject emphasises the complexities of methodological decision-making within real-world evaluation contexts and prepares students to critically appraise the quality of existing evaluations. Ethical considerations are integrated throughout the subject. |
| Participatory Risk Management · 12.5 pts |
Interactions between risk managers and publics represent the ‘coalface’ for disaster risk reduction. Despite the centrality of these relationships, they are rarely the focus of teaching and learning. This challenge is acute in the context of ‘risk management’, where competing theories and the diversity of cases and factors contribute to masses of content, often with little connection to skill development for students. Furthermore, risk is by its nature difficult to study and often dangerous, making experience-based inquiry exceptionally rare but desperately needed. This subject addresses this gap by providing students with active participation and experience with community engagement through self-directed field research. This subject will train students to utilise the Community Engagement for Disaster Risk Reduction (CEDRR) methodology, which uses traditional door-knocking between the emergency services and publics, but alters those interactions in order to nurture inter-personal relationships. The subject and method is premised on research that demonstrates that publics do not respond to ‘top-down instructions’ nor to awareness raising. In this subject, students will learn community engagement by doing it with individuals in their social networks (e.g., friends, neighbours, family). Students will use the web-application for data collection, producing data that will form the basis of their assessments. The subject will deliver skills not currently taught in Australian universities, skills that organisations are increasingly seeking given acceptance that community engagement, participation, and citizen science are required for effective governance. |
| Spatial Data Analytics · 12.5 pts |
Much of the world’s data relates to processes and objects situated in space. Spatial data is a rich source of insights about patterns, processes, trends and behaviours in space and time. To tap into these insights, specialised statistical, analytical and computational techniques are required. This subject exposes students to fundamental aspects of spatial analytics. Students are introduced to key techniques and principles for the analysis of point, area, and field data, covering concepts such as point pattern analysis, spatial autocorrelation and geostatistics. As part of putting these techniques and principles into practice, students learn computational thinking approaches and acquire technical software skills in a high-level scripting language (such as Python and R) that enable them to effectively address spatial data science problems across a variety of domains. The subject partners with other subjects on spatial data management and visualisation and is of particular relevance to people wishing to establish a career in digital infrastructure, spatial information technology, or the quantitative environmental modelling or planning sectors. The subject delivers underlying and cross-disciplinary concepts of geographic information science (GIS) and spatial analytics in managing environmental and infrastructure data, and the visual representation of spatial and temporal information. Relating these relevant concepts to applications through case study examples from various sectors such as digital infrastructure, spatial information technology, quantitative environmental modelling, urban sustainability, and planning. Defining and realizing a student-driven project employing a modern scripting language and spatial-temporal relationships of the observed data from real world. Students will be provided with pointers and material to familiarise themselves with the tools used in this subject before the semester starts; this element of preparation is expected for successful participation in the subject. Advice will be provided on LMS. Please view this video for further information: Spatial Data Analytics |
| Marketing, Society and Sustainability · 12.5 pts |
This subject explores the role of marketing and consumption in a world facing significant social and environmental challenges. What is the role of marketing and marketers in climate change, digital privacy, or the obesity crisis? Does marketing actually improve consumers’ wellbeing? Many ‘ethical’ consumers now integrate their concern for society and the environment into their purchasing decisions. And many ‘ethical’ brands now promote their social and/or environmental credentials. So, can we market and consume our way out of these crises? This subject will address the criticisms of marketing’s role in sustainability issues, and then equip students with the strategic and ethical direction to respond proactively to the opportunities these challenges provide. |
| Analysing Ecosystems and Their Values · 12.5 pts |
Terrestrial ecosystems provide a wide range of values—from biodiversity and carbon storage to clean water and recreational opportunities in interaction with social systems. Managing ecosystems to sustain these values requires understanding what values exist in a given ecosystem, their interactions with society and how they change over time and space. However, natural ecosystems and the social context within which they are embedded are inherently variable across scales—capturing the many ecosystem values presents a significant challenge. This unit will explore the principles of, and approaches to, ecosystem assessment and monitoring across both the biophysical and social domains. We will focus on developing practical skills in the design of social and biophysical assessments, data collection and the analysis of quantitative and qualitative data associated with natural resources and their management. Example assessment approaches include ecological monitoring, forest inventory, stakeholder analysis, participatory mapping and value-based conversations, among many others. We will draw on examples from a range of ecosystems around the world. This subject will involve practicals and a three-day, pre-semester field trip. |