Master of Health Communication

The Master of Health Communication at the University of Sydney is designed for students who wish to explore the intersection of communication, media, and public health. This intensive one-year master's programme equips graduates with a sophisticated understanding of how communication strategies influence health behaviour, policy, and practice within the Australian context and globally. The course content blends theoretical foundations with practical application, including subjects on health campaign design, media relations, digital health, and risk and crisis communication in health.

Australian master's degrees are typically structured around a series of units of study, each assigned a set number of credit points. At the University of Sydney, this programme combines core and elective units, allowing students to tailor their learning to specific interests. The curriculum may include a capstone project or a research-focused assignment, offering opportunities to apply learning to real-world health communication challenges. Some units may feature work-integrated learning or industry partnerships, connecting students with public health agencies, advocacy organisations, or media outlets in Australia’s diverse health sector.

Students develop advanced skills in critical analysis, strategic communication planning, digital content creation, campaign evaluation, and cross-cultural communication. These are supplemented by expertise in Australian health systems, media regulation, and public policy processes. The programme is ideal for those with backgrounds in health sciences, media, communications, or social sciences, or working professionals seeking to specialise further in health communication.

International students benefit from Australia’s high health standards and access to temporary graduate work rights. While studying, students on a Student visa are permitted to work 48 hours per fortnight, and graduates may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream. For entry, applicants must demonstrate English proficiency as outlined by the University of Sydney, typically by achieving a minimum IELTS Academic score between 6.0 and 6.5. Students are advised to confirm full entry requirements and course specifics on the official university page.

• Health Communications Advisor in public or private health sectors
• Media Liaison or PR officer for health organisations
• Campaign Manager in community health, government, or NGOs
• Digital Content Specialist in healthcare settings
• Policy and Advocacy Officer in public health agencies
• Roles within Australian research institutes, healthcare communication agencies, and health-focused international organisations