Bachelor of Social Services (Specialty)
Social Services
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
This degree prepares you for a career as a capable and confident social services professional in Aotearoa. Specialise in Counselling or Health and Wellbeing Practice, and gain practical experience through placements. Graduate ready to support people and whānau, with strong understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and bicultural competency.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Dunedin, Dunedin
It will take a total of 3 years
This course requires 37 hours per week
Core skills this course teaches
Professional and bicultural competency
Demonstrate self-awareness, cultural competency, and uphold the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi in professional practice.
Effective communication
Communicate and build relationships with diverse individuals, whānau, and communities.
Client empowerment
Support clients to overcome social and personal disadvantages and achieve their aspirations.
What You're Signing Up For
The Bachelor of Social Services (Specialty) at Otago Polytechnic equips students to work in New Zealand's social service sector as counsellors or health and wellbeing practitioners. The programme develops self-awareness, communication, cultural competence, and professional practice. After the first year, students select a specialty in Counselling or Health and Wellbeing Practice. The degree offers both full-time (3 years) and part-time (6 years) study options as well as work-based learning pathways for some specialties. Students complete industry placements and graduate prepared for professional roles, eligibility for relevant professional associations, and postgraduate study.
Course Content
- Foundation studies in social services, Te Ao Māori, ethics, legislation, communication, human behaviour, career pathways, and diversity (Year 1)
- Specialty selection: Counselling or Health and Wellbeing Practice
- Applied communication and group facilitation
- Research in social services
- Theory and practice specific to chosen specialty
- Integrated supervised practice via placements (Years 2 and 3)
- Addictions and co-existing problems
- Safe and ethical practice, recognition of abuse
- Wānaka – working with Māori in social services contexts
- Applied social issues and social policy
- Inquiry and research-based practitioner project
- Communicating with whānau, families and communities
- Leadership and community development in social services
What you need to know first
NCEA Level 3 including: 14 credits at Level 3 or above in each of three NZQA approved university entrance subjects; 10 Literacy credits at Level 2 or above, made up of 5 credits in reading and 5 in writing; 10 Numeracy credits at Level 1 or above (or specified achievement standards or unit standards).
References and a health declaration.
Declaration of criminal convictions and permission for police check.
Mental health and substance history status.
Written statement of motivation (up to 600 words).
Curriculum Vitae.
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Social Services
Community and Health
Mental Health Support
Future employment opportunities might be
Community counselling agencies
School counselling services
Non-Government Organisations
Mental Health/Disability Advocate
Health education and promotion
Support work
Community development
Otago Polytechnic is known for high quality, hands on learning that leads to strong outcomes. With excellent student satisfaction, high graduate employment rates, and a commitment to sustainability, it’s a place where practical skills meet purpose. Their award winning programmes span design, fashion, creative arts, trades, health, and business, giving you real experience and real confidence for whatever comes next.