University
The University of WaikatoPostgraduate Certificate of Professional Practice in Social and Community Services
This course is available
On-Campus
Level of Study
Postgraduate Certificate or Diploma
Duration
3 months
Next start date
Expected Jul 2027
Campus
Tauranga CBD Campus
Summary
Enhance your professional knowledge for practice in Aotearoa New Zealand through applied learning and cultural understanding, gaining insight into New Zealand's social, community, and health sectors.
The Postgraduate Certificate of Professional Practice in Social and Community Services (PGCertPSOCS) is ideal for internationally qualified social workers and human services professionals who want to strengthen their knowledge and prepare for professional practice in Aotearoa New Zealand. This programme prepares qualified social, community, and health professionals for practice in New Zealand and is not a first qualifying programme of study. In just one trimester, you'll explore the key social, cultural, and ethical foundations of New Zealand's community and health sectors, with a focus on culturally responsive and inclusive practice.
You'll take part in workshop-based learning, community engagement activities, and applied projects that connect classroom learning with real-world experience. These learning opportunities incorporate Indigenous approaches and field trips, helping you understand New Zealand's social systems, professional expectations, and the articles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
Graduates are prepared for roles across social, community, and health services, including family and youth support, community development, and social care roles within the New Zealand context.
You can also study Professional Practice in Social and Community Services via the 120 point Postgraduate Diploma (PGDipPSOCS) or the 180 point Master's (MPSOCS).
Entry criteria
Candidates for the PGCertPSOCS must have:
- qualified for a bachelors degree of the University of Waikato or a qualification considered by the Academic Board to be equivalent, or
- demonstrated to the satisfaction of the Academic Board that they have adequate training, experience, and ability to proceed with the proposed programme.
The selection process for the Postgraduate Certificate of Professional Practice in Social and Community Services also includes an interview, a declaration and two references.
In exceptional circumstances, based on academic merit and relevant experience, candidates who do not meet the above requirements may be considered for admission subject to the completion of any qualifying papers the Academic Board may prescribe which must be completed either prior to or concurrently.
Disclaimer
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Please note that degrees and qualifications earned via remote or distance learning are excluded from the overseas credential evaluation and recognition services provided by the Chinese Service Center for Scholarly Exchange (CSCSE). For more information, please contact CSCSE directly: +86-10-62677800 (phone) or visit their website(external link that opens in a new tab).
You can learn more about international recognition of New Zealand qualifications on the NZQA website.