Certificate in Disability Support (Level 3) (Online Programme)
Social Services
A course by
AGI
An entry-level online certificate programme that prepares students for work in the disability sector or further health and disability studies, emphasizing support work, communication, and professional practice.
Online study
Flexible online learning from anywhere
Online
It will take a total of 22 weeks
This course requires 20 hours per week
Core skills this course teaches
Apply relevant legislation and ethical practice
Graduates will be able to apply knowledge of relevant legislation, regulations, and codes in a health and wellbeing setting to provide services in an ethical and professional manner.
Recognise and respond to vulnerability
Recognise and respond to signs of vulnerability and abuse in a health or wellbeing setting.
Communicate effectively and appropriately
Communicate effectively in a culturally appropriate manner to support a person's health or wellbeing.
What You're Signing Up For
The Certificate in Disability Support (Level 3) is designed to equip domestic and international students with foundational knowledge and skills to support people with disabilities in health, wellbeing, and community contexts. The programme emphasizes effective communication, professional and ethical behaviour, person-centred care, and promotes independence and community participation. Graduates are prepared for entry-level roles in disability support or progression to further study in health and disability areas.
Course Content
- Key Accountabilities of a Support Worker: professionalism, ethics, signs of vulnerability and abuse, functional/behavioural/environmental changes
- Disability Communication and Support: communication/behavioural management, safe medication practices, infection control
- Personal Disability Support: advocacy, personal care, record keeping, maximising independence
- Support of Aspirations: natural supports, community participation, cultural practices, person-centred care
- Legislation and codes relevant to health and wellbeing
- Clinical placement (5 weeks, typically 3 days per week)
What you need to know first
Domestic: At least 16 years at programme start; 8 credits at NCEA Level 1 in English (4 reading, 4 writing) or equivalent; minimum 3 years secondary education; no minimum academic requirement if 20 years or older.
International: At least 18 years at programme start; Year 12 or 13 qualification or equivalent (including at least one science subject); IELTS 5.0 (no band less than 5.0) or other as per NZQA.
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Health and Disability Support
Community Services
Future employment opportunities might be
Disability Support Worker
Community Support Worker
Entry-level support roles in the health and disability sector