Master of Health Sciences

Health Studies

A research-inclusive, flexible postgraduate qualification enabling graduates and health professionals to examine significant issues across health sciences, with options to specialise in areas such as leadership, health behaviour, or information management.

NZ$24,617

inc GST

Enquire about international pricing


This course starts anytime

NZQA Level 9 Certification (240 Credits)

Study Level

Post Grad

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Online study

Flexible online learning from anywhere

Ilam Campus, Christchurch

It will take a total of 2 years

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Critically evaluate health sciences topics

Graduates will be able to critically assess a range of significant issues within health sciences relevant to their interests or practice.

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Design and conduct health research

Students will design and undertake an independent research project or thesis in a health-related area.

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Apply interdisciplinary health knowledge

Graduates will integrate concepts across health systems, management, and health information to address health sector challenges.

What You're Signing Up For

The Master of Health Sciences (MHealSc) at the University of Canterbury enables health professionals, health sector workers, and others interested in health issues to critically examine significant health sciences topics and enhance their professional practice. The degree is flexible, allowing students to plan a postgraduate programme across health-related disciplines, including health systems, information management, community health, and leadership. With research and coursework options, students can choose to study generally or pursue specialist endorsements in areas such as Environment and Health, Health Behaviour Change, Nursing, and more.

Course Content

  • Critical examination of health sciences issues
  • Health systems functioning and management
  • Health information management
  • Community and public health
  • Health behaviour change
  • Health leadership and management
  • Research methodologies in health sciences
  • Independent thesis or research project
  • Optional specialisations: Environment and Health, Health and Community, Health Information Management, Nursing, Palliative Care

What you need to know first

Relevant bachelor's degree OR appropriate health professional qualification OR Postgraduate Diploma in Health Sciences (or equivalent) with at least a B GPA.

English language requirements for non-native English speakers.

Some courses may require vaccinations.

Nursing endorsement has additional entry/registration requirements.

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What sort of industry will this job lead to

  • Health

  • Public Health

  • Healthcare Management

  • Community Health

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Future employment opportunities might be

  • Continued employment within health profession

  • Roles in health-related fields or social services

  • Positions in local or central government health agencies

  • Eligible for registration with the Nursing Council of New Zealand (Nursing endorsement only)