Study a health studies degree in New Zealand
Health degrees in New Zealand encompass modules that comprehensively understand healthcare systems, medical sciences, and practical skills necessary for various health professions. Common modules include anatomy, physiology, public health, epidemiology, and clinical practice. The curriculum is often structured to balance theoretical knowledge and hands-on training, fostering a holistic approach to healthcare education.
Undergraduate degrees typically span three to four years, while postgraduate programs, such as master’s degrees, may take one to two years to complete. New Zealand’s healthcare system is recognized for its commitment to excellence and innovation, making it an attractive destination for international students pursuing health-related degrees.
New Zealand health program graduates often benefit from a globally recognized qualification, enhancing their competitiveness in the international job market. Studying in New Zealand offers career opportunities to learn from leading experts, gain practical experience through internships, and access state-of-the-art facilities and resources. Courses are available in undergraduate and postgraduate specializations, such as anatomy, dentistry and nutrition.
Types of Health Studies Degrees in New Zealand
Medical schools, universities, and institutions in New Zealand offer degrees in health sciences with many specializations, such as public health and clinical medicine.
Bachelor of Health Sciences (BHSc)
The Bachelor of Health Sciences is an undergraduate degree that provides a comprehensive overview of health and healthcare. The coursework covers mental health and wellbeing, sexual health promotion, communicable and non-communicable diseases, etc. Apart from that, you will also gain awareness of critical health challenges and policy and care decision-making. During the healthcare studies in New Zealand, you can intern in the healthcare industry.
- Course duration: three years
- Course fees: $38,863
- Entry requirements: University entrance or equivalent with IELTS/PTE/TOEFL scores
Master of Health Studies (MHSc)
The Master of Health Studies is an advanced degree that allows health professionals to advance and expand their careers in health and wellbeing. The course program equips you to take on leadership roles in health service, systems on research, etc. You can also opt to specialise in programs such as nutrition and dietetics, which allows graduates to seek registration with the New Zealand Dietian Board to practice as a dietician in New Zealand. The subjects and topics included in New Zealand healthcare courses are- environment and health, health and community, health behaviour change, nursing, palliative care, etc.
- Course duration: two years
- Course fees: $50,564
- Entry requirements: GPE- 5.0 with an IELTS score of 6.5. No bands less than 6.0
Postgraduate Diploma in Health Sciences (PGDipHSc)
The postgraduate diploma in health sciences is a postgraduate course that covers a broad range of health science subjects. It is designed to enhance the knowledge and skills of health professionals to advance their careers in the healthcare industry. The program covers epidemiology, biostatistics, health management, and more.
- Course duration: one year
- Course fees: $20,000
- Entry requirements: bachelor’s degree in a related field and relevant work experience. IELTS score of 6.5. No bands less than 6.0.
Postgraduate Diploma in Biomedical Science (MBChB)
This program is ideal for graduates in clinical science or with science qualifications. Through this program, you can research and evaluate the mechanisms underlying human disease processes and conduct medical science research addressing important healthcare challenges.
- Duration: one year
- Fees: $50,564
- Entry requirements: undergraduate degree in biomedical science and IELTS score of 6.5 with no band less than 6.0
Scholarships
Here is a small selection of the top scholarships and financial aid the government and universities offer to international students.
| Scholarship name | Offered by | Award value |
| Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences Alumni Award | University of Auckland | $1000 |
| RAPHS Medical and Nursing Undergraduate Scholarships | University of Auckland | $2000 |
| UC International First-Year Scholarship | University of Canterbury | $15,000 |
Jobs and Careers
Graduates with a health studies degree in New Zealand have diverse career options across various healthcare industry sectors. One common career path is becoming a registered nurse, where graduates can work in hospitals, clinics, or community health settings. Graduates can also pursue roles as health service managers, healthcare administrators, or policy analysts, while Public health is an expanding field with growing opportunities for graduates. Graduates can also explore careers in healthcare research and academia.
Salary
Generally, health professionals in New Zealand receive competitive salaries, reflecting the country’s commitment to maintaining a high standard of healthcare. Registered nurses, who play a crucial role in the healthcare system, can expect a starting salary of around NZD 50,000 to NZD 70,000 per year. However, with experience and specialization, this figure can increase significantly, reaching levels upwards of NZD 80,000 to NZD 100,000 or more for senior positions or those in specialized fields.
Healthcare professionals with advanced degrees, such as those holding a Master’s or PhD in public health, health management, or a specialized medical field, often command higher salaries. Geographic location is another factor in salary expectations, as the cost of living varies across New Zealand.
Where can I study Health courses in New Zealand?
Learn more about New Zealand universities that offer health studies courses below:
- University of Auckland
- University of Otago
- Auckland University of Technology
- The University of Waikato
- Victoria University of Wellington
- University of Canterbury
- Massey University
- Te Pukenga – Ara Institute of Canterbury
- New Zealand Skills and Education College
- New Zealand Tertiary College
- Te Pukenga – Eastern Institute of Technology
- Manukau Institute of Technology
Study Health in New Zealand
If you want to study a health studies course at a New Zealand university, arrange your free consultation with SI-New Zealand today.
FAQ
What are the career prospects for graduates in health science in New Zealand?
Graduates in health can pursue various career options in health science, such as environmental health, mental health, community healthcare, etc. The average pay scale for graduates is around $65,000.
After completing health science studies, can I apply for a work visa in New Zealand?
Yes, you can apply for a work visa if you have recently finished your studies in New Zealand. It allows you to stay and work for up to three years, depending on your qualifications.
What are the specific requirements for international students to study health science in New Zealand?
To apply for health science courses in New Zealand, you must complete secondary education equivalent to New Zealand’s NCEA Level and core subjects such as Chemistry, Physics, and Calculus.