Postgraduate Diploma in Health Sciences (PGDipHealSc)

Health Studies

A course by

Otago University

A one-year full-time (or longer part-time) programme for health professionals who want to increase knowledge and skills in a specific area of practice.

$ENQUIRE

Interested in this course? Enquire now for Domestic & International pricing


This course starts anytime

(120 Credits)


Online study

Flexible online learning from anywhere

Available in 3 locations

It will take a total of 1 year

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Advanced knowledge in chosen health science specialty

Develop advanced, specialised knowledge and skills in an area of health practice, selected via endorsement.

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Interdisciplinary health understanding

Gain a broad and integrated understanding of the health sciences discipline and its applications across different health fields.

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Evidence-based practice

Apply research and evidence-based approaches to professional practice in health care settings.

What You're Signing Up For

The Postgraduate Diploma in Health Sciences (PGDipHealSc) is designed for health professionals who have completed tertiary study and have experience in the field. The diploma can be taken as a general qualification or with an endorsement in specialist areas like Addiction and Co-existing Disorders, Aeromedical Retrieval and Transport, Bioethics, Cognitive-Behaviour Therapy, Human Nutrition, Mental Health, Musculoskeletal Management, Nursing, Primary Health Care Nursing, Occupational Health, Pain Management, and Rural Nursing. The programme covers 120 points, typically through four 30-point papers and may be credited toward a Master of Health Sciences.

Course Content

  • Core health sciences topics
  • Specialist papers in fields such as Addiction and Co-existing Disorders, Aeromedical Retrieval and Transport, Bioethics, Cognitive-Behaviour Therapy, Human Nutrition, Mental Health, Musculoskeletal Management, Nursing, Primary Health Care Nursing, Occupational Health, Pain Management, and Rural Nursing
  • Research and evidence-based practice (depending on paper selection)
  • Multidisciplinary health knowledge

What you need to know first

Graduate or possess an appropriate health professional qualification requiring at least three years' full-time tertiary study

If applying for an endorsed diploma: relevant professional experience or current work in a relevant health care field

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What sort of industry will this job lead to

  • Health

  • Healthcare

  • Health Research

  • Public Health

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Future employment opportunities might be

  • Leadership or advanced roles in chosen health specialty

  • Enhanced professional practice in areas like nursing, mental health, public health, nutrition, or other health-related roles

  • Pathway to further study (e.g., Master's degree)