Duration
16 study weeks + 2 weeks of holidays full-time or 32 weeks + 6 weeks of holidays part-time)
Campus
Auckland CBD
Delivery
Blended [onshore], Online [offshore]
Credits
60
Work placement
No
Programme overview
The Graduate Certificate in Healthcare provides a direct pathway for learners with a non-health degree, health-related qualification, or relevant experience to transition into postgraduate study. In just one semester, this bridging programme builds the foundational knowledge and critical understanding needed to enter the Postgraduate Diploma in Healthcare, where learners can specialise in mental health, community health, or addiction. Delivered online — including offshore study options — this programme introduces key concepts in healthcare systems, ethical practice, and culturally responsive approaches to improve health outcomes for diverse communities across Aotearoa New Zealand.
(*Pending NZQA approval)
What you study
- Analyse and apply advanced concepts, frameworks, organisational policies, and culturally responsive strategies to improve the holistic health of diverse individuals, their whānau/families and communities in Aotearoa New Zealand with a focus on fostering equitable health outcomes.
- Apply knowledge of legal and ethical standards, along with culturally reflective practices, to competently engage with Māori and Pasifika communities in ways that enhance health and social justice.
- Critically analyse factors contributing to mental and physical health issues, recommending evidence-informed effective interventions as appropriate to vulnerable individuals, their whānau and communities in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Career opportunities
Jobs directly related to this programme may include:
- Youth and Child Health Assistant
- Health Care Assistant/Kaimahi Atawhai
- Whānau Liaison Support
- Disability Support Assistant/Kaiāwhina Haumanu Hauora
- Health & Nutrition Assistant
- Community Development Worker/Kaiāwhina Whakawhanake Hapori
- Auxiliary worker
Median earnings
Entry requirements
- A Bachelor’s degree in any discipline OR
- Equivalent educational experience in health OR
- Equivalent advanced evidence-based practical experience in a patient-facing role in the health industry (min. two years in the last five years).
Evidence of the qualification(s) achieved and/or curriculum vitae and signed attestation(s) of professional work experience are required.
English Language Entry Requirements:
- Applicants must have sufficient competence in the English language to undertake this Programme which is taught and assessed in English
- International students must meet the English Proficiency Outcomes for International students as set out in Appendix 1 of the NZQCF Programme Approval and Accreditation Rules.
Visa and Insurance:
International learners require a valid visa and insurance to study onshore in this programme. The type of visa will determine the mode of delivery.
Criminal Record Check:
Healthcare workers work with people in vulnerable situations, and this requires a high level of integrity and trust.
NZSE will carry out a Policy Vetting check on prospective domestic applicants. Student entry will be provisional until these checks have been completed. The outcome of the Police Vetting check will be kept on the applicant’s files.
International students applying for a visa with New Zealand Immigration are expected to be of good character. “This includes having no criminal history and providing correct and complete information” (New Zealand Immigration, 2024).
If an applicant/student has or acquires during the programme a criminal conviction (except for minor traffic convictions) they are required to declare it. A conviction or charge may lead to the student being withdrawn from the programme. This will be decided by NZSE’s disciplinary process. Those who have declared a criminal conviction need to provide details of:
- Two referees who are aware of the criminal conviction; and
- The charge/s upon which they were convicted, any mitigating circumstances, the penalty the offence carried, and the actual penalty handed down by the court; and
- Any personal information held by the Ministry of Justice about them.
Safety Checks:
Selection:
Enquire now
NZSE provides a student-centered approach to your learning and full support to your life as a student. Request information here:
Talk to us about your study options
Thinking about studying at NZSE? Book a time with us to discuss your study options.