University
University of OtagoThis course is available
On-Campus
Level of Study
Bachelor's Degree
Duration
3 years
Next start date
Expected Jul 2023
Campus
University of Otago
Health systems in the future will see more initiatives in the community.
New health roles will be developed to deliver these initiatives and help individuals negotiate the jigsaw of health services available. Public health approaches will become increasingly important to address the broad health issues facing us in the future.
This career-focused qualification concentrates on the skills required to work with people and communities to promote health and ensure they access and receive the most appropriate care.
Navigate changing global health systems
As our world becomes more interconnected, new challenges are impacting the health and well-being of our communities.
These challenges include:
Populations and people living for longer, and often with multiple long-term conditions and disabilities
Limited health resources and greater demand for services
Environmental and social change and their effects on health
With these challenges comes an increasing need to develop innovative approaches to health care.
The Bachelor of Health Sciences (BHealSc) is a three-year degree for those who want to be an integral part of these new healthcare approaches, with the opportunity to major (specialise) in four different areas.
Community Health Care
Learn culturally responsive and integrated health approaches to navigate the way forward in our changing healthcare system.
Our interactive learning opportunities enable students to connect with people and service organisations in community healthcare settings by:
Learning about health and well-being from multiple disciplines and perspectives, including hauora Maori, in order to develop an understanding of health at a broader level
Focusing on health and well-being, disability, human development and common health problems
Becoming knowledgeable about the social and health system context in order to assist people, their whanau, and communities to navigate the health system effectively
Specifically, you will learn about:
Social and cultural contexts and explore ways to reduce inequity
How to communicate and act in an ethical, professional and compassionate way with a diverse range of individuals and communities, with a particular emphasis on understanding Maori and Pacific values
Human health and well-being across the lifespan
Health conditions and treatments
Disability
Assessment and care co-ordination
Bioethical principles underpinning health care
Career opportunities
As a BHealSc graduate majoring in Community Health Care, you will have a sound multidisciplinary understanding of health, well-being, and the health system. You will be well equipped to gain employment in a variety of community roles within primary and secondary healthcare settings, policy and managerial roles, or in health and disability services.
This is especially important as future healthcare services will be increasingly based in the community.
Graduates will have the expertise to work with a diverse range of individuals and communities across the healthcare sector to improve health outcomes for all.
We recognise many other qualifications as equivalent to the New Zealand qualification for entrance.
We also accept the following international qualifications:
English language requirements
Disclaimer