Postgraduate Certificate of Professional Practice in Social and Community Services

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).