Medical Terminology course - Certificate of Proficiency
Health Studies
A course by
AUT
A 7-month, self-directed online short course introducing the structure, components, and use of medical terminology for those seeking employment or professional development in healthcare environments.
Online study
Flexible online learning from anywhere
Online
It will take a total of 30 weeks
Core skills this course teaches

Understand the structure of medical terms
Break down medical terms into their components to understand definitions and enhance comprehension of medical language.

Familiarity with terminology for body systems
Recognise and appropriately use terms relating to anatomy, physiology, and diseases of different body systems.

Recognise commonly used abbreviations
Expand and understand the meaning of abbreviations commonly found in New Zealand health records.
What You're Signing Up For
This self-directed online course provides comprehensive coverage of medical terminology, focusing on the structure of medical terms, the definition of their components, and units dedicated to each body system. Topics include anatomy, physiology, diseases, investigations, procedures, pharmacology, and the expansion of common abbreviations used in New Zealand health records. Designed for individuals entering or working in the healthcare sector, the course helps develop skills essential for a variety of roles within hospitals, clinics, and medical administration.
Course Content
- Structure and definition of medical terms
- Body system medical terminology
- Anatomy and physiology terms
- Terminology for diseases and disorders
- Medical investigations and diagnostic terms
- Procedures and pharmacology terminology
- Expansion and understanding of common abbreviations in New Zealand health records

What sort of industry will this job lead to
Healthcare
Health Administration
Medical Records

Future employment opportunities might be
Medical administration roles (medical records, ward clerks, typists, clinic receptionists)
Jobs in doctors' surgeries and radiology departments
Insurance company underwriters (healthcare-related roles)
Entry-level healthcare roles requiring medical terminology knowledge