Bachelor of Applied Science (Health Promotion)
Public Health
A course by
Ara Institute of Canterbury
This degree equips students with the knowledge and skills to work in the health and wellness sectors, focusing on health promotion, cultural health, nutrition, exercise, and community health inequalities. Includes practical work placements to ensure graduates are work-ready.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Madras Street, Christchurch
It will take a total of 3 years
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Health Promotion Expertise
Develop the ability to plan, implement, and evaluate health promotion activities aimed at improving community health and reducing inequities.
Cultural and Social Health Understanding
Gain knowledge of cultural understandings of health in Aotearoa New Zealand, including strategies for working with Māori and Pacific populations.
Scientific Knowledge
Apply foundational sciences such as anatomy, physiology, nutrition, and psychology to promote physical activity and healthy lifestyles.
What You're Signing Up For
The Bachelor of Applied Science (Health Promotion) at Ara prepares students to promote health and wellbeing in diverse communities. Covering cultural health, exercise prescription, human nutrition, and public health policy, the degree provides the communication, problem solving, analysis, and teamwork skills needed for success in multidisciplinary health sectors. Students learn about determinants of health, approaches to reduce health inequalities, settings-based promotion strategies, and research methods. Real-world work placements with health organizations ensure practical readiness for varied health promotion careers.
Course Content
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Professional Communication
- Health and Fitness Assessment
- People, Food and Environment
- Health Promotion 1, 2, and 3
- Introduction to Nutrition
- Lifestyle and Health
- Professional Development for Industry
- Sports Psychology
- Child and Adolescent Development and Health
- Introduction to Health, Safety and Wellbeing
- Māori Language Grammar
- Event Planning and Management
- Global Challenges; Sustainable Futures
- Health, Safety and Wellbeing Leadership
- Principles of Leadership
- Project Management
- Physical Activity and Rehabilitation
- Exercise and Health Psychology
- Nutrition Psychology
- Professional Practice
- Research Design and Statistics
- Nutrition Management
- Industry Practicum 1 & 2
- Exercise Prescription and Programming
- Wanaka Hauora
- Applied Nutrition
- Clinical Skills in Nutrition
- Health Promotion for Diverse Populations
- Nutrition and Disease
- Population Nutrition
- Industry Project in Applied Science
What you need to know first
NCEA Level 3 (60 credits at level 3 and 20 credits at level 2 or higher), including 14 credits at Level 3 in Biology or Human Biology or Physical Education, and another subject (Core Health/Health Education, Physics, Statistics, Mathematics, Chemistry, Geography, Psychology)
Literacy: 10 credits at Level 2 or above (5 credits in reading, 5 credits in writing)
Numeracy: 10 credits at Level 1 or above
OR New Zealand Certificate in Exercise (Level 4)
OR New Zealand Certificate in Study and Career Preparation (Level 4) Ara Pre Health Pathway or equivalent
Evidence of good character and personal attributes via two referee reports
Consent to police check for work placement
Alternative entry possible via demonstrated skills/experience
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Health Promotion
Public Health
Community Health
Nutrition
Exercise Science
Corporate Health
Future employment opportunities might be
Health Promoter
Physical Activity Specialist
Corporate Health Consultant
Community Health Worker
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