phd public health in new zealand

Te Wāhanga Tātai Hauora

Faculty of --> faculty of health.

Conduct advanced original research and earn a PhD with the Wellington Faculty of Health.

The PhD thesis is a major piece of original research that demonstrates the candidate’s ability to carry out independent research and constitutes a significant and original contribution to knowledge or understanding of a field of study. As well as intelligence and an aptitude for research, the degree requires considerable dedication and tenacity.

The minimum period of registration before a PhD thesis can be submitted for examination is 36 months full-time (or equivalent).

Registering your interest and initial enquiries

Prospective PhD students can contact the PhD coordinator from the relevant School:

• School of Health, Dr Agnes Szabo
• School of Nursing, Midwifery, and Health Practice, Dr Brian Robinson

The Faculty of Graduate Research (FGR) website will link you to the online application process, provide you with details of available funding, application dates, and answers to questions you may have about what is involved in undertaking a PhD.

Your acceptance will depend on a number of factors, including your previous qualifications and experience, the suitability of your topic for PhD studies and our capacity to supervise you and your topic.

PhD applications

Applications for PhD study can be made at any time, but are considered three times a year: 1 March, 1 July and 1 November.

You will need a Bachelor’s degree with Honours or a Master’s degree at a New Zealand university, with an overall GPA or no less than 6 (letter grade B+) to apply to enrol for a PhD. Enrolment will be subject to the availability of supervisors and approval of the Associate Dean.

In certain circumstances, it is possible for a candidate to begin a Victoria University of Wellington Master’s thesis degree and upgrade to a PhD. Conditions apply.

Find out how to apply here. If you have any questions about the application process please email the Doctoral Admissions staff .

Enquire about research programmes

Fill in our form for advice on Master of Health Research, PhD, or Professional Doctorate study with us.

Help with writing your thesis

The School of Nursing, Midwifery, and Health Practice offers all PhD students the opportunity to attend twice-yearly research school weeks in Wellington. This is a valuable opportunity to discuss research issues and work with your peers and academic staff, as well as national and international visiting academics.

When you complete your thesis, it will be examined by three examiners—usually one from Victoria University of Wellington, one from another New Zealand university and one from an overseas university. You will also be required to defend your thesis in an oral examination.

Related links

• Faculty of Graduate Research
• Te Kura Tapuhi Hauora—School of Nursing, Midwifery, and Health Practice

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Study public health , Te hauora tūmatanui

Improve the health and wellbeing of individuals, whānau and communities. Public health (also called population health) includes disease prevention, health promotion and health protection.

Need help or know what you want to study?

• Study options
• Student stories
• Careers & jobs
• Accreditations

Wellbeing for all

Improve health and wellbeing, reduce inequalities. Careers include case managers, epidemiologists, health officers and analysts.

Walk into a job

Massey public health graduates have great career prospects both in New Zealand and globally.

In great company

Massey's award-winning lecturers and their world-class research will make sure you have the very best training during your study.

Striving to be Tiriti-led

We work to uphold the principles of te Tiriti o Waitangi – and to empower all New Zealanders, especially Māori.

No one thing can improve the health and wellbeing of a community or demographic group. Many factors come into play. And it's vital to work collaboratively with people, whānau and wider groups.

Learn from lecturers from across the health sciences. Explore new ideas with researchers with expertise in areas such as epidemiology, health literacy or health promotion. Examine contemporary public health challenges in Aotearoa New Zealand and globally. Hone your advocacy, analytical and communication skills. Graduate work-ready, with skills employers need.

Studying public health is a good fit if you:

• enjoy school subjects such as health and social sciences
• want to make long-term improvements to health, and to health, wellbeing or disability services
• like creative problem-solving and collaborating with a wide range of people.

Courses in public health may cover:

• analysing health data and research
• developing meaningful relationships with people you'll support – individuals, whānau and communities
• Māori health
• mental health and addiction
• public health systems and functions – examples include health assessments, health promotion and developing capacity
• rehabilitation
• social factors that impact health and wellbeing, such as education, environment and housing.

What is public health?

Public health – also called population health – focuses on the health of groups of people. Public health examines patterns of health across different populations and take a systems view of all factors affecting health.

It includes:

• healthy environments and living conditions
• partnering with communities
• promoting good health and preventing illnesses
• social justice and equity, including causes of health inequalities
• Te Tiriti o Waitangi-led practice.

How to study public health

Discover what we offer if you’re interested in public health – whether you’re coming to university for the first time, changing direction or returning to advance your study or career.

Undergraduate study

Bachelor's degrees, bachelor of health science – bhlthsc.

Discover your path in health science at Massey University.

Health Promotion – Bachelor of Health Science

Tackle key health challenges and improve individual, community and population well-being with Massey's Bachelor of Health Science (Health Promotion).

Integrated Human Health – Bachelor of Health Science

Learn about the impact of biological and environmental factors on human health, and how you can make a difference.

Mental Health and Addiction – Bachelor of Health Science

Massey’s Bachelor of Health Science (Mental Health and Addiction) will help you start or advance a career in the mental health and addictions workforce.

Relevant undergraduate subjects to major or specialise in

When you apply to study at Massey, for some undergraduate qualifications you can choose what subject you’d like to specialise in. You can usually change your mind after you get to university, depending on the courses you enrol in.

• Health promotion
• Integrated human health
• Mental health and addiction

Postgraduate study

Master's degrees, māori health – master of health science.

Elevate the health and wellbeing of iwi, hapū, whānau, and Māori communities with Massey's Master of Health Science (Māori Health).

Master of Health Service Management – MHSM

Through Massey’s internationally recognised, Master of Health Service Management qualification you’ll gain the expertise to advance your career.

Master of Public Health – MPH

The Master of Public Health has practice and research pathways. The Professional Practice Pathway  involves coursework and work-integrated learning opportunities. The Research Pathway involves conducting research under the supervision of experienced public health researchers.

Postgraduate diplomas

Māori health – postgraduate diploma in health science.

This qualification enables you to specialise in Māori knowledge within advanced health studies. Explore the progress made and the potential to further develop the health and wellbeing of Māori communities.

Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health – PGDipPH

Get a high-quality, comprehensive education in public health to boost your career while improving the health of New Zealanders.

PhD and other doctoral degrees

Doctor of philosophy – phd.

A prestigious research qualification that demonstrates your ability to carry out independent and original research in your chosen field.

Relevant research areas at Massey

Discover research expertise, projects and initiatives relating to public health at Massey.

Public health research

What our students say

“My degree was a pathway into hauora Māori after a career in animal health and farming. My thesis is about Tāne ora, the wellbeing of Māori men. If strategy, policy and high-level problem solving in health and the social sector is up your ally, the MPH would be a great qualification to consider.”

Ngāti Tūwharetoa

Master of Public Health

“I recommend studying at Massey University because it allowed me to learn about everything that contributes to health and wellbeing, but also the real world application of this knowledge that allows you to work in the health field.”

Bachelor of Health Science (Integrated Human Health)

“The course-work covers many concepts of public health, from sociology to health systems, political landscapes and their influence on health, right down to designing and running an intervention. Almost everything I learn has applicability in my working role – I am able to learn and practice as I go.”

Jobs in public health

Careers in public health typically focus on improving health and wellbeing, and reducing inequalities. Our graduates develop skills to promote and protect all aspects of health and wellbeing, including mental, physical, spiritual and family health, and the health of the environment.

Careers can include work in local or national government, in iwi and non-government health organisations. Job prospects are good in New Zealand and overseas.

Public health careers include:

• case managers, who organise rehabilitation or disability care plans
• health or whānau ora navigators, who help people find suitable support or treatment
• community health workers
• epidemiologists, who specialise in the causes or spread of diseases
• health protection officers
• mental health and addiction practitioners
• policy analysts or advisers
• service designers.

Annual salary ranges for jobs

• Epidemiologist – $50,000 to $175,000
• Policy analyst – $71,000 to $170,000
• Public health officer – $48,000 to $85,000

Salary ranges disclaimer

Indicative pay rates are:

• in New Zealand dollars
• based on careers.govt.nz data.

Which public health qualification?

Examples of where our qualifications may take you.

Accreditations and rankings

Medical Sciences Council of New Zealand

The Postgraduate Diploma in Health Science (Medical Laboratory Science) is accredited by the Medical Sciences Council of New Zealand.

APHEA Validated Curriculum

The Agency for Public Health Education Accreditation (APHEA) has validated Massey's Master of Public Health as adhering to international standards for a modern comprehensive degree in public health.

Get an information guide

Download our guide to find out more about studying public health (also called population health) at Massey.

Search courses or qualifications

• List all qualifications you can study at Massey

Related areas of interest

Study environmental and occupational health.

Delve into factors affecting health and wellbeing — from air and water quality to housing, climate change to health and safety at work.

Study Māori knowledge

Massey explores Māori cultural, educational, health and economic development. Tirohia ngā tohu kaupapa Māori. Find out about our Māori qualifications.

Study nursing

Become a highly skill nurse. We can help — we've been doing it for decades, ranking in the world's top 150 universities for nursing.

Study social work

From addiction support to child protection, aged care to mental health services, Massey prepares you for a career helping individuals and whānau.

Why a New Zealand PhD?

New zealand’s phd package.

International PhD students in New Zealand enjoy the following benefits:

How to apply

Apply now to your preferred university:.

Victoria University of Wellington

The University of Waikato

The University of Otago

Massey University

Lincoln University

The University of Canterbury

AUT University

The University of Auckland

Jessica Patiño-Pérez | Colombian PhD student

Still have questions?

How much are tuition fees, what is the phd structure, what is the length of a phd programme, how will my phd be assessed, how soon are you planning to begin your studies.

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PhDs and Doctoral degrees

A doctoral degree is the highest academic degree offered at UC. Those who earn it must show significant intellectual achievement, high scholarly ability, and great breadth of knowledge. Studying towards a doctoral degree will give you fresh knowledge, enable you to discover new things, and develop new skills. Check out the options and requirements.

Perhaps you have a burning intellectual curiosity about something, wish to advance your career or even change career direction and increase your employability and earning capacity. Either way you can be sure that studying towards a doctoral degree will give you fresh knowledge, allow you to discover new things, and develop new skills.

A doctoral degree is the highest academic degree offered at UC. Those who earn it must demonstrate significant intellectual achievement, high scholarly ability, and great breadth of knowledge.

In addition to your thesis research, UC offers a number of workshops and seminars for thesis students to develop general skills such as career planning, time management, networking, and communication skills. See the 'Further study' section below for more details.

A number of  scholarships and awards  are available for doctoral students.

Qualification options keyboard_arrow_down

Doctor of philosophy (phd).

A  Doctor of Philosophy  involves extensive and sustained original research in a subject of your choice, with the results being presented in a thesis. It is normally the highest academic qualification available and is a mark of intellectual ability and independence, critical thinking, self-discipline, and commitment. PhDs are offered in a wide range of subjects at UC, and are by thesis only.

Doctor of Education (EdD)

A  Doctor of Education  is a specialised doctorate designed for professionals in education and related fields. Built on a cohort model of inquiry, the Doctor of Education provides a structured, supportive, rigorous approach to doctoral study. The Doctor of Education builds leadership and commitment, fosters scholarly excellence, and allows candidates to connect educational research with questions of professional practice. Please note that this programme is not open to international students as the first two years of study are conducted part-time, and student visa conditions only allow for full-time study.

Doctor of Health Sciences (DHSc)

The  Doctor of Health Sciences  offers clinical and non-clinical professionals collaborative research opportunities and contacts with local industry. Please note that this programme is not open to international students as the first two years of study are conducted part-time, and student visa conditions only allow for full-time study.

Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA)

The  Doctor of Musical Arts  is a doctoral degree that is specific to advanced research in music composition or performance. It comprises scholarly research in the form of a supervised research thesis and performance practice in the form of public music performance or the presentation of compositions. International students will need to pay international fees for this doctorate.

Entry requirements keyboard_arrow_down

The minimum requirements to apply for doctoral study are that you should have completed, or be in the process of completing, a research-focused  honours degree  or  master's degree . For PhD study you must achieve this degree at either the level of First-Class or Second-Class Division I (or equivalent).

For international applicants, our International Office, in consultation with your host department, look at your previous qualifications and transcripts to ensure that you have the necessary background required to complete a doctoral degree at UC. You are also required to meet UC's  English language requirements  for admission.

Find out how to  apply for PhD and Doctoral degrees .

See also  Financial and Enrolment Information — Doctorate, Master's Thesis, and Dissertation Students Policy .

Identifying a supervisor

As part of the admissions process, you must  identify a potential research supervisor  before submitting a formal application to enrol in a PhD. A supervisor must be an academic member of staff at UC. Over 500 academics at UC have expertise in a large variety of topics. To identify experts in a given area and to find out about the research interests of staff in your discipline, you can search the school or department website, or the  UC Research Profile database .

If you identify any possible supervisors, please contact them directly to discuss your potential research topic and ascertain whether suitable supervision might be available. When you have identified a supervisor who is willing to support your application to enrol please  complete the admissions documents.

For more information visit the  Find a Supervisor webpage .

Specific qualification entry requirements

If you are applying for  Doctor of Musical Arts  study, you will typically require an audition, interview, and/or submission of previous academic work and recommendation from  Te Kura Puoro | School of Music .

A  Doctor of Health Sciences  requires at least five years of relevant professional practice in the clinical or non-clinical industry.

How do I plan my degree? keyboard_arrow_down

During your doctoral degree you will investigate a research topic and develop your research skills, culminating in the submission of a thesis for examination. The thesis undergoes examination by two independent examiners prior to you having an oral examination.

Your thesis must:

• be an original contribution to knowledge/understanding in its field
• meet internationally recognised standards for doctoral research in its field
• demonstrate knowledge of literature relevant to the field to which it belongs, and the ability to exercise critical and analytical judgment of that literature
• be satisfactory in its method, in the quality and coherence of its expression, and in its scholarly presentation and format.

The doctoral programmes are structured in PhD reporting milestones to track your progress. These must be submitted to the  Dean of Postgraduate Research  and approved every six months.

The exact structure of programme will vary based on the nature of the research being undertaken and agreed to with your senior supervisor.

You can begin a  Doctor of Philosophy  or  Doctor of Musical Arts  on the first day of any month of the year, and should regard study and research as a full-time occupation throughout the calendar year. The minimum period of enrolment if you are a full-time student is 3 years (PhD students should normally complete their thesis within 4 years). There are provisions for you to apply for part-time study, in which case the minimum period is 4.5 years, and you should complete your thesis within 6 years.

The first two years of the  Doctor of Education  and  Doctor of Health Sciences  degrees are part-time for all. These doctorates will take 4-6 years to complete, or part-time only for up to 6 years.

Further study keyboard_arrow_down

Additional skills and training opportunities.

In addition to providing world-class research supervision and facilities, Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | University of Canterbury is committed to providing PhD students with a range of opportunities to engage in a broader research-based experience, equipping students with research skills, introductions to professional networks, and enhanced career opportunities.

A UC doctoral graduate will not only be recognised for the quality of their research thesis, but will also have additional research skills and experiences.

While doing a doctorate at UC, you will have the opportunity to participate in:

• transferable skills workshops
• research design and statistical analysis workshops
• 'Surviving your Thesis' seminars
• networking opportunities, within and outside the University
• presentation experience
• social events.

Many doctoral students also have the opportunity to undertake teaching assistance work.

For social networking and events,  UC Postgraduate Students' Association (UC PGSA)  is run by students and works closely with the Dean of Postgraduate Research to enhance the UC postgraduate student experience.

Support for research students

Te kura tāura.

Te Kura Tāura | UC Graduate School is a space where our graduate research students can access wraparound support at every stage of their journey, from initial enquiry through to graduation.

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PhD Public Health programs in New Zealand

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Deadline information, best universities with public health in new zealand.

Bachelor Public Health programs in New Zealand

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PhD Public Health programs in New Zealand

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Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health

Learn how you can advance public health and address today’s health challenges in diverse contexts and communities with the Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health at AUT.

Passionate about promoting health, tackling health inequities or addressing the social, economic or other factors that affect individual and community wellbeing? Are you considering a career in public health, or  already working in the field? The Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health prepares you for managing our pressing community and public health risks, now and in the future.

Topics you’ll study include principles of public health, social epidemiology, public health policy and systems and Te Hau o te Ora Hauora Māori Development.

Download programme guides

• AUT Prospectus (2024)
• AUT Prospectus (2025)
• Fees shown are based on a full-time workload for the points indicated next to the fee. The exact fee charged will depend on which courses you select at the time of enrolment.
• Fees are subject to change year to year. If you are planning for study beyond the current year, fees may vary from those stated.
• There may also be other fees and charges you need to pay .
• International students' tuition fees reflect the full cost of tuition. Domestic students' tuition fees are less due to a proportion of the tuition fees being funded by the New Zealand Government.

Indicative 2024 international fees

Scholarships

• Entry requirements
• What you study
• Related programmes

Minimum entry requirements

Completed one of the following:

• Relevant bachelor’s degree
• Relevant graduate diploma

International student entry requirements

Other requirements

May be admitted on the basis of a relevant professional qualification or professional experience approved by the Dean (or representative) to be equivalent to a bachelor’s degree.

English language requirements

• IELTS (Academic) 6.5 overall with no band less than 6.0

The programme aims to advance public health and wellbeing. In addition to its core courses, elective options include Māori Health, Health Law, and Disaster Risk Management and Development, as well as a diverse range of contemporary public health and research courses.

The programme is also committed to the principles of equity, social justice, empowerment as well as community participation and ownership. All courses are offered via flexible learning, including a mix of block courses on campus and online, or blended learning.

Complete the following courses

• PUBH801 Principles of Public Health (15 points) (Semester 1)
• EPMY801 Social Epidemiology (15 points) (Semester 1)
• MAOH804 Te Hau o te Ora Hauora Māori Development (15 points) (Semesters 1, 2)
• PUBH804 Public Health Policy and Systems (15 points) (Semester 2)

And 60 points from

• COMH802 Pae Ora - Optimising Practice in Violence and Trauma (15 points) (Semester 1)
• COMH805 Trauma Informed Practice and Psychosocial Interventions (15 points)
• EMGT806 Communications in Emergency and Disaster (15 points) (Semester 1)
• EMGT808 Disasters and Development (15 points) (Semester 1)
• EMGT807 Environmental Change and Humanitarian Action (15 points) (Semester 2)
• EMGT809 Building Community Resilience (15 points) (Semester 2)
• GEOL801 Environment, Hazards and Society (15 points) (Semester 2)
• HEAL801 Disability and Health (15 points) (Semester 1)
• HEAL808 Quantitative Research II (15 points) (Semester 1, 2)
• HEAL810 Qualitative Research II (15 points) (Semester 1, 2)
• HEAL811 Research Design and Methods (15 points) (Semester 1, 2)
• HEAL816 Special Topic (15 points) (Semester 1, 2)
• HEAL817 Leadership and Management (15 points) (Semester 1)
• HEAL825 Applied Health Care Ethics (15 points) (Semester 2)
• HEAL840 Critical Inquiry for Evidence Based Practice (15 points) (Semester 1, 2)
• HEAL858 Exponential Health Technologies (15 points) (Semester 1)
• HEAL859 Digital Health Disruption (15 points) (Semester 1)
• HLAW801 Health Law (15 points) (Semester 2)
• MAOH801 Te Rangahau Hauora Māori – Māori Health Research Practice (15 points) (Semester 2)
• MAOH805 Te Pū o te Ora – Māori Health Praxis (Semester 1)
• MENH801 Enhancing Social Participation in Mental Health (15 points) (Semester 2)
• MGMT861 Managing Organisations and People (15 points) (Semester 1)
• PUBH802 Public Health Programme Management (15 points) (Semester 2) - not offered in 2023
• PUBH803 Global Health (15 points) (Semester 2)
• PUBH809 Advanced Epidemiology and Health Metrics (15 points)
• PUBH810 Pacific Health Research and Design (15 points) (Semester 1)
• RHAB815 Measuring Health and Well-being (Semester 1)

Or alternative optional courses approved by the Associate Dean Postgraduate.

Skills you will develop in the Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health

The outcomes for graduates of the Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health are outlined in the Graduate Profile below.

Graduate Profile

Practice as a health professional in New Zealand is governed by legislation and a number of ‘Responsible Authorities’ (such as the NZ Psychologist Board, Physiotherapy Board and the Nursing Council who register practitioners). Overseas qualified health professionals who wish to practise in New Zealand should communicate directly with the relevant Responsible Authority. Qualifications recognised for professional registration at AUT are undergraduate; study at postgraduate level is not considered equivalent recognition for NZ Board certification.

• Postgraduate Certificate in Public Health
• Master of Public Health

The information on this page was correct at time of publication. For a comprehensive overview of AUT qualifications, please refer to the Academic Calendar .

NZ already spends less on health than Australia or Canada – we need proper funding, not ‘crisis’ management

Associate Professor of Hauora Māori, University of Otago

Professor of Law, John and Marylyn Mayo Chair in Health Law, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau

Professor of Health Economics, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau

Professor of Public Health, University of Otago

Professor; Co-Director, Centre for Health Systems and Technology, University of Otago

Professor, Health Policy, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau

Disclosure statement

Esther Willing receives funding from the Health Research Council.

Paula Lorgelly receives or has received funding from the Ministry of Health, Health New Zealand and the Health Research Council.

Peter Crampton receives or has received funding from the Health Research Council of New Zealand and the Ministry of Health. He is a member of the Public Health Advisory Committee, the Board of Te Tāhū Hauora (Health Quality and Safety Commission), and the Ministry of Health Primary and Community Care Advisory Group. He was a member of the Health and Disability System Review panel.

Tim Tenbensel receives funding from the Health Research Council. He is affiliated with Health Coalition Aotearoa.

Jaime King and Robin Gauld do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

University of Auckland and University of Otago provide funding as members of The Conversation AU.

University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau and University of Otago provide funding as members of The Conversation NZ.

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We are being told the health system is in crisis, “ on the brink of failure ” – spending beyond its budget, waiting times getting longer, suffering from widespread staff shortages.

The government has responded by dismissing the board of Te Whatu Ora (Health NZ) and appointing Lester Levy as commissioner, with the task of reducing “overspending”. Levy himself has called the system “bloated” and said a “reset” is needed.

However, claims of overspending downplay the most significant external contributors to our stressed health system, while attempting to shift the focus internally. We are concerned the overspending narrative may be a precursor to doubt being cast on the viability of the publicly-funded system in general.

Many of the challenges faced by our health system are not unique to New Zealand. Global workforce shortages have been building since the 2000s, affecting most health systems.

COVID-19 exacerbated these trends. Many healthcare workers experienced burnout during the pandemic and left the health system. Many who remain are stressed and overworked.

Workforce pressures combine with a number of other factors: increased demand for health services, ageing populations (of patients and the health workforce), ever-growing treatment options and rising patient expectations, and an increasing prevalence of chronic health conditions needing ongoing, long-term care.

NZ underspends on health

The health systems of most high-income countries are under stress. But by far the biggest local factor contributing to New Zealand’s stressed health system is historical and current underfunding. Rather than overspending, it has been incredibly frugal for a long time.

Throughout the 2010s, just over 9% of the country’s GDP was spent on health, when most comparable countries were spending between 10% and 12% . According to OECD data , in 2020 New Zealand spent the equivalent of US$3,929 per capita on health – far less than Canada (US$6,215) and Australia (US$5,802).

That gap drives salary differences with comparable countries for health workers, exacerbating our workforce shortages as valuable trained staff leave for better pay elsewhere. While there is scope for productivity improvement in parts of the system, any such gains would be small compared to the cumulative extent of past underfunding.

Also important is the two-tiered nature of the New Zealand health system. The 1938 Social Security Act, which created the publicly-funded system, aimed to ensure health services would be free and accessible to all citizens. Now, however, primary health care is not affordable for around one in eight New Zealanders.

The problem goes back to the original compromise between the government and the medical profession. GPs retained the right to operate as private businesses, receiving government subsidies while also charging patients consultation fees. Doctors in public hospitals became salaried, but were allowed to operate a parallel private practice.

Consequently, better-off people could access health services more quickly in the private sector. No government since has been able to shift these arrangements, despite the considerable inequities of access they entail.

Would other funding models work?

For more than 80 years, the basic design of the publicly-funded health system has served us well, even with the two-tiered design flaws. Around 80% of the health system is funded publicly through taxation, a model we share with the UK, Spain and Scandinavian countries.

Given 37% of New Zealanders currently have private insurance, would a greater role for private funding reduce pressure on public funding? International experience tells us no.

The private insurance-based US health system is by far the most expensive in the world, soaking up nearly 18% of GDP . The prices paid by private insurers for health services have increased significantly faster than public parts of the US system.

There is also New Zealand evidence that private insurance can burden the public sector , with acute followup care sometimes required in public hospitals. Private insurers manage the pinch of rising healthcare costs by increasing premiums and tightening eligibility restrictions.

Health systems that rely on funding via private insurance are less accessible, less efficient, less equitable and generally have worse health outcomes. Put simply, market-based healthcare doesn’t deliver the expected benefits of markets, but does generate the expected downsides.

Another alternative to the tax-funded system is social insurance, where employers and employees pay into sickness funds, not unlike New Zealand’s Accident Compensation Corporation.

In countries with social insurance, such as Germany and the Netherlands, the provision of care is predominantly from non-government providers, rather than government-run hospitals. But research has shown there are higher cost pressures in social insurance systems because they are costlier to administer than tax-based systems.

In tax-based systems, rationing due to funding shortfalls is more visible in the form of waiting times and waiting lists. In private insurance-based systems, rationing is based on affordability and is far less visible.

Protecting access and fairness

Addressing the challenges within New Zealand’s health system requires adequate funding, and investment in the people who make up the system itself.

This includes the healthcare workers who take care of us, and the administrative and support staff who make that healthcare possible.

Short-term belt-tightening will most likely deepen the crisis. In the longer term, a viable publicly-funded system is more efficient and effective than the known alternatives.

This requires a policy commitment to actively address the many drivers of the crisis in ways that align with our values of universal access and fairness.

Meanwhile, we will need to have difficult conversations about how we address this underfunding, and how we train and support healthcare workers. Our publicly-funded health system is needed as much now as when it was first set up, to ensure all New Zealanders have access to healthcare when they need it.

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Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Environmental Health

Offered by: Department of Environmental Health and Engineering

Onsite | Full-Time | 5 years

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About the PhD in Environmental Health Program

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree program is a full-time degree program that offers a unique interdisciplinary learning experience where the course of study is individually tailored based on the student’s interest in understanding and finding solutions to pressing problems in environmental health and engineering.

The goal of PhD training in EHE is to prepare graduates to engage in scholarship and professional practice that creates new knowledge, use research to transform practice and improve the health of the environment and the public, and effectively communicate research findings to the public. The program requires didactic coursework followed by an average of four to five years of research towards a doctoral dissertation (also referred to as a thesis on official forms and committees).

Training is offered through a core curriculum that is required of all PhD students in the Department with the addition of track/program-specific requirements and focused courses in specialized areas.

Students are expected to tailor their curricula, working with their advisers to create a comprehensive plan of study and research. PhD thesis must be based on original research, worthy of publication, and approved by the Department and a committee of thesis (dissertation) readers. PhD students must also be engaged in primary data collection as a component of their dissertation research or embedded in other research during their training here.

Our programs are offered in the  Whiting School of Engineering , on the Homewood campus (WSE) and the  Bloomberg School of Public Health  (BSPH) East Baltimore campus. Students in all of our programs have the unique opportunity to take classes on both the Homewood and East Baltimore campuses in order to complete their degree requirements.

Students in the PhD in Environmental Health  program select from one of four tracks:

Track in Exposure Sciences and Environmental Epidemiology (ESEE)

Track in Environmental Sustainability, Resilience, and Health (ESRH)

Track in Health Security (HS)

Track in Toxicology, Physiology, and Molecular Mechanisms (TPMM)

PhD in Environmental Health Program Highlights

Fully funded.

The minimum guaranteed 2025-2026 academic year stipend is $50,000, with a 4% increase the following year. Tuition, fees, and medical benefits are provided.

Multidisciplinary

Opportunities to work across departments in the Schools of Public Health, Engineering, and more

Write and Publish

Help with academic writing and grant proposals embedded into coursework, with opportunities to learn from published faculty and peers

Teaching Training

Teaching assistantships, training, and support for learning to teach, and opportunities for paid TA positions as well

What Can You Do With a Graduate Degree In Environmental Health?

Visit the Graduate Employment Outcomes Dashboard to learn about Bloomberg School graduates' employment status, sector, and salaries.

Sample Careers

• Assistant Professor
• Senior Consultant
• Data Scientist
• Environmental Toxicologist
• Epidemiologist
• Postdoctoral Fellow

Curriculum for the PhD in Environmental Health

Browse an overview of the requirements for this PhD program in the JHU  Academic Catalogue .

Admissions Requirements

For the general admissions requirements see our How to Apply page.

Standardized Test Scores

Standardized test scores are  not required and not reviewed  for this program. If you have taken a standardized test such as the GRE, GMAT, or MCAT and want to submit your scores, please note that they will not be used as a metric during the application review.  Applications will be reviewed holistically based on all required application components.

Vivien Thomas PhD Scholars

The  Vivien Thomas Scholars Initiative (VTSI)  is an endowed fellowship program at Johns Hopkins for PhD students in STEM fields. It provides full tuition, stipend, and benefits while also providing targeted mentoring, networking, community, and professional development opportunities. Students who have attended a historically Black college and university (HBCU) or other minority serving institution (MSI) for undergraduate study are eligible to apply. To be considered for the VTSI, you will need to submit a SOPHAS application, VTSI supplementary materials, and all supporting documents (letters, transcripts, and test scores) by December 1, 2024. VTSI applicants are eligible for an application fee waiver , but the fee waiver must be requested by November 15, 2024 and prior to submission of the SOPHAS application.

Faculty Advisers

The following faculty may be willing to advise PhD students. If you identify a faculty member that you want to work with who is not on this list, we encourage you to ask them about their availability.

Peter DeCarlo

Peter studies the chemical composition of gas particles in the air to improve our understanding of climate, air quality, and health impacts of pollutants.

Paul Ferraro

Paul ­ is a Bloomberg Distinguished Professor with joint appointments in the Department of Environmental Health and Engineering and the Carey Business School. He is known for his research on behavioral economics and the design and estimation of impacts of environmental programs.

Ciaran Harman

Ciaran, an associate professor of landscape hydrology and Russell Croft Faculty Scholar, studies how the structure of landscapes controls the movement of water from rainfall to streams, and how that structure evolves over time.

Thomas Hartung

Thomas Hartung, MD, PhD, steers the revolution in toxicology to move away from 50+ year-old animal tests to organoid cultures and the use of artificial intelligence.

Scot Miller

Scot Miller combines satellite data and statistics to understand greenhouse gas emissions across the globe.

Roni A. Neff

Roni Neff, PhD '06, ScM, researches ways to cut food waste and address climate change through more resilient, equitable, and healthy food systems.

Carsten Prasse

Carsten's research focuses on the occurrence and fate of organic contaminants in the urban water cycle and their impact on environmental and human health.

Tuition and Funding

Per the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) with the JHU PhD Union, the minimum guaranteed 2025-2026 academic year stipend is $50,000 for all PhD students with a 4% increase the following year. Tuition, fees, and medical benefits are provided, including health insurance premiums for PhD student’s children and spouses of international students, depending on visa type. The minimum stipend and tuition coverage is guaranteed for at least the first four years of a BSPH PhD program; specific amounts and the number of years supported, as well as work expectations related to that stipend will vary across departments and funding source. Please refer to the  CBA to review specific benefits, compensation, and other terms.

Need-Based Relocation Grants Students who  are admitted to PhD programs at JHU   starting in Fall 2023 or beyond can apply to receive a need-based grant to offset the costs of relocating to be able to attend JHU.   These grants provide funding to a portion of incoming students who, without this money, may otherwise not be able to afford to relocate to JHU for their PhD program. This is not a merit-based grant. Applications will be evaluated solely based on financial need.  View more information about the need-based relocation grants for PhD students .

Questions about the program? We're happy to help. [email protected]

Linguistic vitality improves health and wellbeing in Indigenous communities: a scoping review

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Introduction: While Indigenous communities have long recognized the importance of their languages for their wellbeing, this topic has only recently received attention in scholarship, research and public policy. This scoping review synthesizes and assesses existing literature on the links between Indigenous linguistic vitality and health or wellness in English-speaking settler colonial countries (Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the United States). Methods: The JBI methodology for scoping reviews was followed by an interdisciplinary research team. Key databases searched included MEDLINE, PsycInfo, and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature. Searches were restricted to English language literature. The last search was on February 8, 2021. Quantitative and qualitative analyses were conducted to categorize and elucidate the nature of the links reported. Results: Over 10,000 records were reviewed and 262 met the inclusion criteria — 70% academic and 30% gray literature. The largest number of studies focus on Canadian contexts. 78% of the original research studies report only supportive links between Indigenous languages and health, while 98% of the literature reviews report supportive links. Linguistic vitality tends to support health and wellness outcomes, while the diminishment of languages is associated with worse health. The most prevalent links with linguistic vitality are healthcare outcomes, overall health and healing, and mental, cognitive, and psychological health and development. The results of the remaining original research studies were mixed (10%), statistically non-significant (6%), adverse (5%) and neutral (1%). Conclusions: The results of this scoping review suggest that linguistic vitality is a determinant of health for Indigenous peoples in the contexts studied. Recommendations for harnessing the healing effects of language include increasing tangible support to language programs, delivering linguistically tailored health care and promotion, and advancing knowledge through funding relevant community-engaged research and education.

Competing Interest Statement

The authors have declared no competing interest.

Funding Statement

This research was supported in part by a University of British Columbia Language Sciences Grant for Catalyzing Research Clusters (MT and Dr. July Illes). LH held funding from a Canadian Institutes of Health Research Canada Graduate Scholarship Master's Award (#6556) and a W. Maurice Young Centre for Applied Ethics Graduate Fellowship. The funders had no role in study design, data collection and analysis, decision to publish, or preparation of the manuscript.

Author Declarations

I confirm all relevant ethical guidelines have been followed, and any necessary IRB and/or ethics committee approvals have been obtained.

I confirm that all necessary patient/participant consent has been obtained and the appropriate institutional forms have been archived, and that any patient/participant/sample identifiers included were not known to anyone (e.g., hospital staff, patients or participants themselves) outside the research group so cannot be used to identify individuals.

I understand that all clinical trials and any other prospective interventional studies must be registered with an ICMJE-approved registry, such as ClinicalTrials.gov. I confirm that any such study reported in the manuscript has been registered and the trial registration ID is provided (note: if posting a prospective study registered retrospectively, please provide a statement in the trial ID field explaining why the study was not registered in advance).

I have followed all appropriate research reporting guidelines, such as any relevant EQUATOR Network research reporting checklist(s) and other pertinent material, if applicable.

Data Availability

All data produced in the present study are available upon reasonable request to the authors

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Master of Public Health (M.P.H.) 

Program snapshot, program resources, admission requirements.

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Center for Global Health

Gain the skills and knowledge needed to address today’s health challenges on a community level through education, public policy, research, and strategic partnerships.

Why Earn an M.P.H. at New York Tech?

New York Institute of Technology tailors this fully online Master of Public Health (M.P.H.) program to individuals working in or planning to pursue a career in the public health field.

You’ll explore public health systems in urban and rural environments, both nationally and globally, focusing on prevention and empowering traditionally underserved communities. You’ll acquire a broad understanding of public health in its historical context and master evidence-based principles and their application to present challenges, including environmental health and health disparities, as well as the mitigation of epidemics and natural disasters.

With its emphasis on communications, policy, and interdisciplinary solutions, our M.P.H. program will help you develop a methodological, social justice-centered mindset. You’ll learn to act as an advocate on a range of public health challenges, promoting greater well-being and helping communities move toward more equitable outcomes.  

You’ll graduate ready to fill in-demand positions in local health departments, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and the private sector.

Request Information

Learn where a Public Health, M.P.H. from New York Tech can take you. Complete the form to start the conversation.

What You’ll Learn

The program covers all aspects of the discipline, while a choice of electives provides insight into areas that align with your career goals. It includes a fieldwork-based practicum at a healthcare facility in the United States or abroad, where you’ll apply course concepts and gain valuable experience in the implementation of preventative public health strategies. 

Customize Your Studies

During this 200-hour assignment, you’ll take an active role in health services and participate in a preventative health initiative.

The Center for Global Health develops leaders ready to tackle the challenges of disease and health disparities both in the U.S. and around the world through education, research, and service-learning.

Global Health Certificate

Give your perspective on healthcare provision and policy a global context. This immersive program includes classroom learning, research, and hands-on international fieldwork. Some M.P.H. credits/courses can be applied toward the Global Health Certificate.

Career & Salary Outlook

With in-depth knowledge of matters related to public health, M.P.H. students find roles that draw on their expertise and passions, embarking on careers ranging from public policy advocacy to medical services management.

Job growth for Medical and Health Services Managers is estimated at 28 percent through 2032 (BLS).

Employers & Internships

• Research and Development

Career Options

• Epidemiologist
• Healthcare Administrator
• Health Educator
• Policymaker
• Registered Nurse
• Social/Community Service Manager

Salary Projections

Medical and health services managers earn a median U.S. annual salary of $104,830; epidemiologists earn $78,520; and social/community service managers earn $74,240.

Program Details

Learn more about how to apply to the M.P.H. program and ways to fund your education.

To be eligible to apply to the Master of Public Health program, you’ll need to have an undergraduate degree from an accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0.

To apply, submit the following:

• Completed online application
• $50 application fee
• Transcripts from all college-level work
• Copy of your college diploma or proof of your degree
• Statement of purpose
• Three letters of reference
• Official GRE scores, if required (GRE Code: 2561)

Note that additional requirements apply to international students.

Scholarships and Aid

Explore opportunities to offset program costs, including New York Tech scholarships, graduate assistantships, and federal financial aid.

Keep Exploring

Transform your compassion into impact by earning an M.P.H. from New York Tech.

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Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health PGDipPH

Help reduce the burden of disease and injury and improve the quality of health care delivery in public health.

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Programme overview

This diploma provides an advanced understanding of the theoretical and practical issues and the skills to apply these principles in the workplace, research and day-to-day life.

It covers a range of activities and disciplines including epidemiology, demography, sociology, health statistics, health economics, health promotion, health management, health protection, environmental health and health services and policy.

Opportunity to specialise in: Māori Health .

Programme structure

• Entry requirements
• Fees and scholarships
• 120 point programme
• Advanced taught course topics that cover principles of public health, epidemiology and research methods (45 points)
• A selection of courses worth at least 60 points from other courses listed in the  Master of Public Health Schedule
• Up to 15 points from other 700 level courses offered at this University.
• One year full-time or up to four years part-time
• You can complete a generic programme or specialise in Māori Health.

You'll also need to meet other requirements, including time limits and total points limits. See Postgraduate enrolment .

Sample programme structure

• Public Health

Year 1 120 points

• Code: POPLHLTH 760 Name: Principles of Public Health Type: Compulsory core course Points: 15 pts
• Code: POPLHLTH 776 Name: Population Health in Practice Type: Compulsory core course Points: 15 pts
• Code: MAORIHTH 701 Name: Foundations of Māori Health Type: Compulsory core course Points: 15 pts
• Code: one of Name: POPLHLTH 708, 709 Type: Compulsory core course Points: 15 pts
• Code: one of Name: POPLHLTH 701-706, 767 Type: Compulsory core course Points: 15 pts
• Name: Elective from the PGDipPH or MPH schedules Type: Elective course Points: 15 pts
• Māori Health
• Code: MAORIHTH 701 Name: Foundations of Maori Health Type: Compulsory core course Points: 15 pts
• Code: MAORIHTH 710 Name: Kaupapa Maori Theory Type: Compulsory core course Points: 15 pts
• Code: one of Name: POPLHLTH 701-707, 767 Type: Compulsory core course Points: 15 pts
• Code: one of Name: MAORIHTH 705, 706, 709, 711 Type: Compulsory core course Points: 15 pts

Subjects available in this programme

2024 entry requirements, programme requirements.

Taught 120 points

Entry into this postgraduate diploma is limited to 65 students per year, with selection by academic merit based on your Grade Point Average (GPA) or Grade Point Equivalent (GPE) .

You must have completed an undergraduate degree in a health-related discipline such as dentistry, health sciences, medicine, nursing, occupational therapy, optometry, pharmacy, physiotherapy, psychology, public health, or social work. Your study must have been at a recognised university (or similar institution). You will typically need a GPA or GPE of at least 3.0.

Alternatively, you must have completed the Postgraduate Certificate in Public Health .

Further programme requirements

English language requirements

If you are an international applicant whose first language is not English you will need to provide evidence of your English proficiency.

You will require an IELTS Academic score of 6.5 with no bands less than 6.0. See alternative English language requirements .

Other pathways to study

• If you are 20 on or before the first day of semester, have no formal University Entrance (UE) qualification, and are a New Zealand or Australian citizen or permanent resident you can apply for special admission .

How much does a Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health cost per year?

Fees are set in advance of each calendar year and will be updated on this website. Fees are inclusive of 15% GST, but do not include the Student Services Fee, course books, travel and health insurance, or living costs. Amounts shown are indicative only. In addition to the tuition fees, there is a Student Services Fee of $8.88 per point, estimated at $1,065.60 for full-time study (120 points). Fees will be confirmed upon completion of enrolment into courses.

*Please note: amounts shown are indicative and estimates only.

See course fees for each faculty

Find out about financial support information

Scholarships and awards.

Find out about the scholarships you may be eligible for.

Student loans and allowances

Are you a New Zealand citizen or resident? You could be eligible for a student loan or allowance.

Cost of living

Get an idea of how much accommodation and general living in Auckland will cost.

Please note: We will consider late applications if places are still available. International students should start the application process as early as possible to allow sufficient time to apply for a visa.

Application closing dates

Start dates.

Here are the start dates for the programme.

Other important dates

See important dates for the academic year , including orientation, enrolment, study breaks, exams, and graduation.

Where could this programme take you?

Graduates with a public health qualification may find employment in diverse areas within the health sector including: public health research; disease surveillance and monitoring; public health management; health planning and policy making at a government level; and management positions within health care organisations. We advise that the University of Auckland is not involved in the employment of graduates and can make no guarantee of post-qualification registration or employment in New Zealand or any other country.

Jobs related to this programme

• Public health researcher
• Health planner

Further study options

• Master of Public Health
• Doctor of Philosophy

Student career planning service

Once you become a student at the University, you can get help with planning and developing your career from Career Development and Employability Services .

We advise that the University of Auckland is not involved in the employment of graduates and can make no guarantee of post-qualification registration or employment in New Zealand or any other country.

Key Information for Students

Compare qualifications and academic information across different New Zealand institutions.

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Postgraduate programmes offered by the Department of Public Health

Tohu paerua, you're in the perfect city to change a country.

Study postgraduate public health at Otago's Wellington campus and build a career which positively impacts the health of all New Zealanders.

Teaching staff

Meet some of the amazing teachers and researchers from our Wellington campus. The two-minute video above introduces Professors Louise Signal, Philippa Howden-Chapman and Michael Baker. Or further short profiles can be read at Meet some of our DPH teachers .

To quote a recent student...

"It was incredible to be taught by people actively practising and making a huge difference in Aotearoa health and policy. I could see their work changing our system around me. I could see it in the medical journals, in the media, in the decisions of government." - Carl Shuker (DPH student - Wellington).

Postgraduate programmes on offer

Our Study Public Health website has information about the postgraduate public health programmes across our 3 campuses: Wellington, Christchurch and Dunedin.

Postgraduate Certificate in Public Health (PGCertPH)

Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health (DPH)

Postgraduate Diploma in Health Management (PGDipHealMgt)

Master of Health Sciences endorsed in Health Management (MHealSc)

Master of Public Health (MPH)

PhD based in the Department of Public Health

Postgraduate Research

PhD and Masters opportunities and contact details for research groups in the department

Masters students

List of completed Masters students

PhD students

List of current and completed PhD students

Postgraduate Co-ordinator University of Otago, Wellington PO Box 7343 Wellington 6242 New Zealand Tel +64 4 832 3017 Email [email protected]