University
University of OtagoPostgraduate Diploma in Health Sciences (PGDipHealSc)
This course is available
On-Campus
Level of Study
Postgraduate Certificate or Diploma
Duration
1 year
Next start date
Expected Mar 2027
Summary
In general, this qualification is intended for health professionals who have completed three years of tertiary study and already have experience in the field. The Postgraduate Diploma in Health Sciences (PGDipHealSc) may be taken either as a generic qualification or, more usually, with an endorsement in a specific area of specialisation. Please check the requirements of each endorsement carefully.
Information for new applicantsThe Postgraduate Diploma in Health Sciences (PGDipHealSc) is a postgraduate diploma comprising papers to the value of 120 points (usually four 30 point papers). It can be taken as a generic "unendorsed" option or as an "endorsed" option from those listed below.
You can obtain information about each endorsement by clicking on the links below.
The Postgraduate Diploma in Health Sciences is taught from three campuses (Dunedin, Christchurch and Wellington).
The Diploma may be credited towards the Master of Health Sciences, though admission to the Masters will depend upon performance.
Please seek advice from a course adviser prior to submitting your application.
Schedule of endorsed optionsEndorsements marked with an asterisk are available through Distance Learning.
Each endorsement is based at a particular campus indicated below: D = Dunedin, C = Christchurch, W = Wellington.
- Addiction and Co-existing Disorders * C
- Aeromedical Retrieval and Transport * W
- Bioethics * D
- Cognitive-Behaviour Therapy W
- Human Nutrition * D
- Mental Health * C
- Musculoskeletal Management * C
- Nursing * C
- Nursing (Primary Health Care) * C
- Occupational Health * D
- Pain and Pain Management * C
- Rural Nursing * C
Entry criteria
General entry requirementsA university entrance qualification is essential for admission to the University of Otago for all types of programmes. You must also be at least 16 years of age by the first day of classes in your period of study and meet English language requirements.
Domestic studentsYou need to have met the New Zealand University Entrance standard, based on your achievement in secondary school or other prior study. Learn about the different categories for achieving University Entrance and what information you may need to provide with your application.
International studentsCheck recognised entry qualifications by country, and find out what documents you need to provide for a successful application.
English language requirementsAll students must be proficient in the use of English. If your first language is not English, there are several ways you may provide evidence of English proficiency, including through prior secondary or tertiary study, internationally recognised English language tests, and foundation language programmes.
The level of English proficiency required for undergraduate study is equivalent to an overall IELTS score of 6.0, with no individual band below 5.5.
For details about what is accepted as evidence of English proficiency, please refer to:
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