Overview

Public health protects and improves the wellbeing of whole communities, from preventing disease to safeguarding vulnerable populations. The BSc (Hons) Biomedical and Health Sciences majoring in Public Health at Adelaide University combines a broad grounding in how the human body works in health and disease with a focused study of the social, cultural and economic forces behind modern health challenges. Students work with real human specimens in specialised anatomy labs and learn from internationally recognised academics whose teaching is backed by innovative research. Theory is put into practice through hands-on experiences, including high-tech simulations, and the program concludes with a work or research placement in the health sector. Core studies in health systems, research, anatomy and physiology are shaped by cross-cultural and First Nations perspectives, and students can tailor their degree through electives or a second major. The course suits those who want to improve health at a community and global level. Graduates gain transferable skills in health and research for varied careers or postgraduate study.

What You’ll Learn

Human anatomy and physiology

Health research methods and research skills

Health, society and health systems

Upstream determinants of health

Infectious disease epidemiology and control

Essentials of epidemiology and biostatistics

Public health ethics and evaluation

Environmental and occupational health

Rural public health and Aboriginal health

Health promotion, policy and global health

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, graduates will understand human biology alongside the social, cultural, commercial and environmental factors that shape health across the lifespan and across populations. They will be able to explain how diseases spread, analyse health data using biostatistical and epidemiological methods, and critically evaluate public health programs and policies in light of ethical considerations. Students will apply these concepts to real-world issues such as infectious disease control, food and water safety, occupational health and the needs of rural and Aboriginal communities. Anatomy laboratory work, simulations and a final-year work or research placement build practical skills, together with communication, teamwork, problem-solving and time management. Cross-cultural and First Nations perspectives give graduates a well-rounded, global view of health and care. Through their choice of electives or a second major, students can specialise further in preparation for health-related careers or postgraduate study.