Master of Science - Rural Health Research | UNSW

Master's Degree Public Health Full Time

Master of Science - Rural Health - Research

at University of New South Wales · Sydney, New South Wales

CRICOS course code

041972G

CRICOS provider code

00098G

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$123,000 total

Per year

A$61,500/yr

Intake

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

About this program

The Master of Science - Rural Health - Research at the University of New South Wales is a specialised postgraduate programme designed for those seeking to deepen their expertise in rural health and health research. The course develops advanced knowledge of rural health principles and practices, equipping students to address unique health challenges facing regional, rural, and remote communities in Australia. Through a strong research focus, students gain valuable skills in epidemiology, health systems, qualitative and quantitative research methods, and policy analysis relevant to rural contexts.

This two-year master's degree is structured in accordance with the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF), typically comprising a series of core and elective units of study, each carrying a set number of credit points. A significant element of the programme is the research thesis or capstone project, where students undertake independent, supervised research addressing real-world rural health issues. Students may have opportunities for work-integrated learning or professional placements, enabling them to apply their knowledge in practice within health and research organisations, especially in regional settings.

Graduates acquire advanced skills in critical analysis, project management, health needs assessment, biostatistics, and the conduct and dissemination of impactful research. This course is well-suited to health professionals, policy makers, and researchers with a passion for improving health equity and outcomes for rural and remote populations in Australia. Its flexible and research-intensive curriculum supports both recent bachelor graduates and experienced practitioners seeking to specialise or advance academic and professional careers.

Australia’s vibrant public health sector and extensive rural research networks offer a supportive environment for students. Those on a Student visa are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study, with eligibility for the post-study Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) upon completion. Applicants should check the UNSW website for the latest details on structure, admission, and research opportunities.

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

Rural health researcher
Policy analyst in regional health departments
Programme manager in non-government health organisations
Public health consultant specialising in rural and remote issues
Academic or research officer in Australian universities
Health data analyst in government or research institutes

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Master of Science - Rural Health - Research at University of New South Wales?

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

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$123,000 total. Fees change yearly, confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Rural health researcherPolicy analyst in regional health departmentsProgramme manager in non-government health organisationsPublic health consultant specialising in rural and remote issuesAcademic or research officer in Australian universitiesHealth data analyst in government or...

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