Graduate Diploma in Health

Health Studies

Deepen your understanding of key health topics and prepare for a health sector career. The Graduate Diploma in Health is ideal for those looking to shift into health, undertake further studies, or gain skills in health systems and practices.

NZ$51,865

inc GST

Enquire about international pricing


This course starts anytime

(120 Credits)


In-person study

Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting

Ilam Campus, Christchurch

It will take a total of 1 year

Background blur gradient small

Coming Soon: Nexties Explorer

Our AI-powered Explorer is almost ready. Soon, you’ll be able to build a dynamic profile of your skills, goals, and strengths, and get a curated selection of courses just for you.

More details

Unlock these abilities


Star graphic

Understand health systems and determinants

Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of health systems, key determinants of health, and health disparities affecting populations.

Star graphic

Apply health promotion and education skills

Develop and implement health promotion, education, and communication strategies in workplace and organisational settings.

Star graphic

Demonstrate bicultural and cultural competence

Build confidence and competence in bicultural and culturally responsive practice, with a focus on Māori and Pacific health outcomes.

What You're Signing Up For

The Graduate Diploma in Health (GradDipHlth) at University of Canterbury is designed for students wanting to expand their expertise in health, including those changing careers, planning postgraduate study, or international students who do not yet meet postgraduate requirements. It covers key health topics such as health promotion, health education, Māori and Pacific health, health systems, and offers electives in nutrition, psychology, physical activity, policy, and more. Graduates develop skills in equity, diversity, bicultural competence, and are equipped for a range of health sector roles in Aotearoa New Zealand and internationally.

Course Content

  • Key determinants of health and health disparities
  • Health promotion and health education
  • Health communication skills
  • Nutrition
  • Psychology
  • Physical activity and wellbeing
  • Mental health and addictions
  • Epidemiology
  • Health policy
  • Health systems and policy
  • Professional and community health engagement
  • Equity, diversity, bicultural competence

What you need to know first

A completed bachelor's degree in Aotearoa New Zealand (or equivalent)

Or at least 5 years relevant work experience in a health-related field

If English is not your first language, UC English language requirements must be met

Industry icon

What sort of industry will this job lead to

  • Health

Employment opportunities icon

Future employment opportunities might be

  • Health advocacy and consultation roles

  • Policy analyst or developer

  • Health science and psychology related roles

  • Community health or well-being organisations

  • Support roles in health and non-health sector organisations