Do you want to be on the frontline of public health challenges, putting your skills and knowledge of epidemiology into practice? 

If you have health-related qualifications and relevant experience, then the Master of Philosophy in Applied Epidemiology (MAE) is the right program for you. 

Register now to join us for our online information session on 21 May 2026.

About the MAE

The MAE Program is Australia’s national Field Epidemiology Training Program (FETP), joining a global community of 22,000 graduates from over 80 programs. The National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health (NCEPH) at The Australian National University (ANU) has run the MAE since 1991. The program has successfully produced graduates who have made significant contributions to public health, communicable disease control and health leadership both in Australia and overseas. 

This is a two-year research degree that emphasises learning by doing. You will spend the majority of your time in a field placement (typically a government health department, research institution or other appropriate health organisation) conducting useful and important projects under the supervision of a field and academic supervisor. Common areas of work during the program include vaccine preventable diseases, food-and waterborne diseases, sexually transmissible infections, noncommunicable diseases, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health, and global health. Scholars are supported via a tax-free scholarship of $69,049 in 2027 with an increase in 2028 to $71,396 per annum. Please note: Payments made fortnightly for program duration (MAE program is 22 months).

The MAE Program is committed to promoting an inclusive and respectful learning experience. We encourage and welcome applications from people of all identities, cultures and lived experiences. Undertaking the MAE will give you the knowledge and practical experience you need for a challenging, impactful and rewarding career in epidemiology.

How to apply

To be eligible for admission, you are required to be an Australian citizen or a permanent resident.

The application portal will open on 23 May.  The portal will provide the application requirements/application guidelines.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are encouraged to apply.  Fifteen per cent of graduates are Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander persons. Hear from some of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander graduates.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander MAE Scholars can apply for top up scholarships. For more information see the Leonard Broom HDR Scholarship.

Visit the Master of Philosophy in Applied Epidemiology (MAE) web page to learn more.