Doctor of Philosophy (Public Health and Health Services)

About the course

This PhD lets you undertake substantial, original research to advance public health and health services. You will work with dedicated supervisors and access Deakin’s research facilities and partnerships while developing a focused research project. Research areas may include health promotion, policy, health economics and evaluation, rural and environmental health, disability and community health, and social determinants of health. This is a doctoral research degree in Health Sciences.

Career outcome

Graduates are prepared for research and leadership roles that improve population health and health systems. Career pathways include academic and research positions, policy and program evaluation roles, health promotion and public health consultancy, and senior roles in government agencies, NGOs, hospitals and health services, and research institutes. The degree supports specialist expertise in designing and delivering evidence-based public health and health services improvements as a PhD in Health Sciences.

Living Costs in Melbourne**

Restaurant (Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant) A$ 15 - 20	Rent per Month (1 bedroom in City Centre) A$ 1,583 - 2,094	Rent per Month (1 bedroom Outside of Centre) A$ 1,207 - 1,596
Transportation (Daily) A$ 7 - 9	Utilities per Month (Electricity, Mobile & Internet) A$ 240 - 318

Average Salary***

*Source: QS World University Subjects Rankings (2026)

**Source: numbeo.com

***Source: PayScale.com (2026)