Bachelor of
Public Health (Honours)

Tackle the world’s biggest health challenges. An honours year in public health at Flinders gives you a head start in your career in health policy and practice, and is a stepping stone to careers in research with a PhD.

Projects & Supervisors Guide

Key information.

Duration
1 years full-time

Delivery mode

In person (Bedford Park)*

Annual fees

$9,537

About these fees.

*Flexible attendance options apply, with both in-person and online study modes available for most topics.

Key information.

CRICOS Code
1 17735M

Duration
1 years full-time

Delivery mode

In person (Bedford Park)

Annual fees

$37,400

About these fees.

What you'll study.

Your honours year is an intensive research program where you will complete an independent thesis in a specialised area of public health.

Program structure and expectations.

The honours program enables students to demonstrate their ability to work in a research environment. You’ll work under expert supervision, present your findings, and develop the high-level research skills needed for public health leadership and further study.

Research Thesis

Independent research project under academic supervision

Seminars

Present research findings and receive peer feedback

Workshops

Training in research methods, statistical analysis, and research ethics.

Laboratory/field work

Practical experience depending on research project

View course handbook

Public Health Research Areas.

Public Health honours students work across leading research themes that address current and emerging health challenges.

Population Health

Understanding health trends to inform policy and practice.

Indigenous Health

Promoting equity through culturally informed research and interventions.

Health Systems & Policy

Evaluating and improving health service delivery.

Epidemiology & Biostatistics

Analysing data to identify risk factors and outcomes.

Environmental Health

Investigating the impact of environment on community wellbeing.

Immersive research and learning environment.

Students benefit from access to Flinders’ modern laboratories, research institutes, and specialist centres. Dedicated library services and collaborative research spaces provide the support needed to excel in your independent project.

You'll be embedded within the Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute (FHMRI), a world-class facility driving discoveries that advance public health, disease prevention, and health promotion across communities.

Learn more about FHMRI

Study beside experts from the National Centre for Education and Training on Addiction (NCETA), a leading national research centre recognised for its expertise in alcohol and other drug (AOD) research, education, and workforce development. Students gain access to cutting-edge projects that influence policy and practice across Australia, working alongside researchers who specialise in prevention, treatment, and systems responses to reduce AOD-related harms.

Learn more about NCETA

Your career and future pathways.

An honours year in public health prepares graduates for research, policy, and leadership roles.

Potential occupations

You could be a

Expected salary
$111,000^*

Interpret public health data for decision-making

Expected salary
$98,000^*

Develop and evaluate health policies

Expected salary
$105,000^*

Analyse disease trends and risk factors

Expected salary
$95,000^*

Conduct studies to improve community health

Potential occupations

You could be a

Expected salary
$111,000^*

Interpret public health data for decision-making

Expected salary
$98,000^*

Develop and evaluate health policies

Expected salary
$105,000^*

Analyse disease trends and risk factors

Expected salary
$95,000^*

Conduct studies to improve community health

Pathway to a PhD

An honours degree is the most direct pathway to a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). The intensive research training, critical thinking, and project management skills you acquire are precisely what's needed for success in a higher degree by research.

Students often continue with research in their honours area, supported by strong supervision and Flinders’ research network.

Explore PhD opportunities

Researcher Spotlight.

See how our students have turned their passion into impactful research and successful careers.

Billie Bonevski

Flinders Health, Medical Research Institute (FHMRI) Director

Nathan Harrison

PhD candidate (Public Health)

The great thing about public health is that it has a big impact on so many people – the health of the whole population.

my research will help to provide vital information about the best strategies to embed smoking cessation support ...

The great thing about public health is that it has a big impact on so many people – the health of the whole population.

my research will help to provide vital information about the best strategies to embed smoking cessation support ...

Application and support hub.

Everything you need to apply and find support on your journey.

How to apply

Check eligibility

Ensure you have a GPA of 5.0 or above in your bachelor's degree.

Contact coordinator

Contact the Honours coordinator to discuss your project and arrange supervision.

Complete the Honours Project Proposal form with your Honours supervisor.

Honours Project Proposal Form

Submit application

Submit your application directly to Flinders University through the online application system.

Download Application Guide

Apply now

Application dates

Applications for 2026
Now open.

Commencement
Semester 1, 2026.

Find a research supervisor.

HDR supervisors are academic staff who are registered to support HDR students through their candidature.

Find a supervisor

Scholarships and fees

Explore scholarships and financial assistance options.

Find a scholarship

HECS-HELP

Frequently asked questions

Can I do my honours part-time?

While part-time study may be available, it is recommended to speak with your Honours coordinator to confirm prior to commencing study.

Can I study online?

While online study may be available, it is recommended to speak with your Honours coordinator to confirm prior to commencing study.

What's the main difference between an honours and master's degree?

An honours degree is an intensive, one-year research program focused on a single, large project, making it an ideal pathway to a PhD. A master's degree is typically longer, involves more coursework, and can be research or coursework-focused.

Do I need to find a supervisor before I apply?

Yes. Securing an in-principle agreement from a supervisor is a mandatory step in the application process. We recommend starting this process early. Admission will also depend upon the College's ability to provide appropriate resources and staff to supervise the proposed research project.

Application and support hub.

Everything you need to apply and find support on your journey.

How to apply

Check eligibility

Admission to the one-year Honours program is highly competitive.

If you have demonstrated academic excellence with a Grade Point Average of 5 or higher during your bachelor’s degree, your application may be considered for the program.

GPA requirements may be higher depending on the specific entry requirements of the program

Contact coordinator

Contact the Honours coordinator to discuss your project and arrange supervision.

Complete the Honours Project Proposal form with your Honours supervisor.

Honours Project Proposal Form

Submit application

Submit your application directly to Flinders University through the online application system.

Apply now

Application dates

Applications for 2026
Now open.

Commencement
Semester 1, 2026.

Find a research coordinator.

HDR supervisors are academic staff who are registered to support HDR students through their candidature.

Find a supervisor

Scholarships and fees

Explore scholarships and financial assistance options.

Find a scholarship

Frequently asked questions

What's the main difference between an honours and master's degree?

An honours degree is an intensive, one-year research program focused on a single, large project, making it an ideal pathway to a PhD. A master's degree is typically longer, involves more coursework, and can be research or coursework-focused.

Do I need to find a supervisor before I apply?

Yes. Securing an in-principle agreement from a supervisor is a mandatory step in the application process. We recommend starting this process early.

Explore related honours programs.

Your interest in health can lead to various specialised fields.

Bachelor of Paramedicine (Honours)

The Bachelor of Paramedicine (Honours) gives you the edge in clinical leadership, evidence-based practice, and employability, whether your goal is enhanced work roles or research.

Duration
1 years full-time

Delivery mode

In person (Bedford Park)

Learn more

Bachelor of Medical Science (Honours)

Investigate the science of the human body. Learn from renowned researchers in a range of sciences, including biotechnology, microbiology, molecular biology, neuroscience and more.

Duration
1 years full-time

Delivery mode

In person (Bedford Park)

Learn more

Bachelor of Health Sciences (Honours)

Working with experienced researchers you will help facilitate change and influence health care practice leading to better health systems, better care, and better lives.