The Postgraduate Certificate in Public Health is a New Zealand Qualifications Framework (NZQF) Level 8 qualification worth 60 points. The programme focuses on the social, economic, environmental and cultural factors that influence health and wellbeing, with a strong emphasis on community health and development.

It is suitable for graduates who wish to begin a career in public health, as well as professionals already working in health-related fields who want to enhance their knowledge and qualifications. The certificate also provides a pathway to the Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health and the Master of Public Health.

Why Study the Postgraduate Certificate in Public Health at AUT?

• Develop a strong understanding of contemporary public health principles.
• Learn how social, cultural, environmental and economic factors influence population health.
• Study current public health policy and health systems.
• Build knowledge in epidemiology and community health development.
• Flexible learning designed for working professionals.
• Learn from experienced public health academics and researchers.
• Pathway to higher postgraduate qualifications including the Postgraduate Diploma and Master of Public Health.
• Gain practical knowledge relevant to New Zealand and international public health settings.

Subjects / Topics Covered

The programme covers key public health topics including:

• Principles of Public Health
• Social Epidemiology
• Public Health Policy
• Health Systems
• Community Health Development
• M?ori Health Development
• Population Health
• Health Promotion
• Public Health Practice
• Health Equity
• Social Determinants of Health
• Evidence-informed Public Health

Disciplines / Areas of Specialisation

The programme develops knowledge in:

• Public Health
• Community Health
• Health Promotion
• Epidemiology
• Population Health
• M?ori Health
• Public Health Policy
• Health Systems
• Community Development

Programme Highlights

• NZQF Level 8 postgraduate qualification.
• Flexible blended-learning format suitable for working professionals.
• Strong focus on public health policy, epidemiology and community health.
• Includes M?ori health perspectives within the curriculum.
• Develops practical knowledge relevant to local and global public health challenges.
• Pathway to the Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health and Master of Public Health.
• Taught by experienced public health academics and researchers.

Career Outcomes

Graduates may pursue careers in:

• Public Health Advisor
• Health Promotion Officer
• Community Health Coordinator
• Population Health Analyst
• Health Policy Advisor
• Public Health Project Officer
• NGO Programme Coordinator
• Health Research Assistant
• Community Development Officer
• Government Health Agencies
• International Health Organisations

Visa Requirements

International students generally require a New Zealand Student Visa to study at AUT.

Typical requirements include:

• Offer of Place from AUT.
• Valid passport.
• Payment of tuition fees (where applicable).
• Evidence of sufficient funds for tuition and living expenses.
• Proof of English language proficiency.
• Medical examination and chest X-ray (if required).
• Police clearance certificate (if applicable).
• Approved medical and travel insurance.
• Compliance with Immigration New Zealand student visa conditions throughout the programme.

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

• Programme Code: AK3807.
• Qualification Level: NZQF Level 8.
• Credits: 60 points.
• Study Mode: Flexible learning with a mix of on-campus block courses, online learning and blended delivery.
• Campus: Mainly South Campus, with selected courses at City or North Campus.
• Duration: Part-time only.
• Next intake: 22 February 2027.
• Graduates can progress directly to the Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health or the Master of Public Health.