Master's Degree Medicine & Health Sciences Full Time

Master of Science (Epidemiology)

at University of Melbourne · Melbourne, Victoria

CRICOS course code

094598J

CRICOS provider code

00116K

This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students. Verify it yourself at cricos.education.gov.au before paying any fee.

Duration

2 years

Tuition (whole course)

A$128,084 total

Per year

A$64,042/yr

Intake

Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul)

About this program

The Master of Science (Epidemiology) at the University of Melbourne equips students with advanced knowledge and practical skills needed to investigate and address public health challenges using epidemiological approaches. This comprehensive two-year master's degree covers a broad range of topics including study design, statistical analysis, critical interpretation of scientific literature, and application of epidemiological theory to real-world health problems. Students gain hands-on experience with the tools and techniques used to monitor and reduce disease burden in populations.

The programme structure typically involves a combination of compulsory and elective units of study, each contributing to the total credit points required for graduation. Students learn through lectures, workshops, seminars, and supervised research, enabling them to engage with leading public health experts. The curriculum often includes opportunities for work-integrated learning or a research project, allowing students to apply their skills in a professional or research setting, further bridging theory with practice.

Upon completion, graduates will demonstrate strong analytical, research, and communication skills essential for designing and evaluating population health studies, as well as for informing policy and intervention strategies. The course particularly suits health professionals, scientists, or graduates from related fields seeking to upskill or transition into a career in epidemiology or public health research. International students must evidence English proficiency as outlined by the university, and can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study, with the potential for post-study work rights under the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485). Links with leading hospitals, health departments, and research institutes in Melbourne provide valuable industry exposure and practical experience. Prospective students should always confirm details on the official University of Melbourne course page.

Entry requirements

English: International applicants must evidence English proficiency. IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common undergraduate and coursework-postgraduate standard, rising to 7.0–7.5 for teaching, nursing, medicine, law and social work. TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and the university’s own English programmes are accepted as equivalents; the Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa itself.

International students: Registered on CRICOS for international students. A Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this course supports a Student visa (subclass 500) application; Overseas Student Health Cover is required for the full duration.

Career outcomes

Epidemiologist in government health departments or agencies
Public health researcher at universities or research institutes
Data analyst in medical research settings
Policy advisor or health consultant for public, private, or non-governmental organisations
Health surveillance and communicable disease control roles
Roles within pharmaceutical, medical, or biotechnology industries in research or regulatory affairs

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Master of Science (Epidemiology) at University of Melbourne?

It typically takes 2 years, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$128,084 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Epidemiologist in government health departments or agenciesPublic health researcher at universities or research institutesData analyst in medical research settingsPolicy advisor or health consultant for public, private, or non-governmental organisationsHealth surveillance and com...

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