Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

This practicum consists of a placement scheme whereby students are hosted by a health-related agency for a full semester. Industry-based placements are arranged by matching the specific interests and desired learning outcomes of the student with the practice-based opportunities available at the respective public health organisation. Students are allocated an agency-based supervisor and a University-based supervisor. Students are expected to attend their industry placement for a minimum of 24 hours per week, plus attend the tutorials at the University. The tutorials are a combination of formal discussion of issues related to public health practice and an opportunity for students to 'debrief' and discuss their practical experiences.

Credit
24 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 2UWA (Perth)Face to face
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) apply specific knowledge of biomedical/social science to given health settings; (2) design and implement appropriate intervention strategies; (3) use evidence in a workplace setting; (4) apply specific knowledge of population health principles to the management of health with a given population; (5) demonstrate communication skills, including verbal and written, presentation and interviewing skills; (6) develop and maintain appropriate resources for the workplace; (7) apply project management skills; (8) demonstrate professional behaviour in a work setting; (9) work cooperatively as a member of a team, accepting and providing leadership; (10) recognise own limitations and seek assistance as required; (11) use time management strategies; and (12) use reflective practices.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) learning portfolio; (2) workplace assessment; and (3) written report. Further information is available in the unit outline.



This unit is assessed on an ungraded pass/ungraded failed basis. All assessment items must be successfully completed.

Supplementary assessment is not available in this unit.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Professor Colleen Fisher
Unit rules
Prerequisites
PUBH5749 Foundations of Public Health.
PUBH4403 Epidemiology 1.
PUBH5752 Health Systems and Economics.
PUBH4401 Biostatistics 1.
and PUBH5754 Health Promotion I.
To be eligible for the Practicum, students must also have received a mark of at least 70 for PUBH5749 Foundations of Public Health
or PUBH5754 Health Promotion I.
Incidental fees
Incidental student fees and charges are costs incurred by students as part of their studies at UWA that are in addition to their tuition fees (further information is available here).
Participation in this unit will incur the following incidental fee(s):
(1) National Police Clearance check (estimated cost - $61.00)
(2) Optional rural placement travel costs (estimated cost - Variable)
(3) Working With Children Check (estimated cost - $11.00).
Contact hours
35 hours per week
Note
Please note that a condition of enrolment in this unit is the student's adherence to the unit requirements prior to commencing the placement:

(1) it is the student's responsibility to gain a National Police Clearance Certificate, at their own cost, before the placement commences
(2) the student is to read and commit to follow the UWA policy on code of conduct for field work and health and safety advice as outlined in the unit guidebook; and
(3) Vaccinations (including COVID) in line with Health Department, UWA Policy and SPGH guidelines are a requirement of enrolment in this unit.
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.