The Postgraduate Certificate in Health Science is an interdisciplinary Level 8 programme offering advanced study in nursing and health science disciplines. The qualification develops:

• Advanced healthcare knowledge
• Critical analysis skills
• Evidence-based healthcare practice
• Professional leadership capability
• Research and inquiry skills

Students can complete the qualification either with or without a specialty focus depending on their career goals. The programme also serves as a pathway into higher postgraduate qualifications such as:

• Postgraduate Diploma in Health Science
• Master of Health Science
• Master of Nursing Science
• Master of Nursing (Nurse Practitioner Pathway)

Why Study Postgraduate Certificate in Health Science at EIT?

Flexible Study Designed for Professionals

EIT offers:

• Online learning
• Blended delivery
• Part-time study flexibility
• Self-paced learning support

Advanced Professional Development

The programme develops expertise in:

• Clinical reasoning
• Advanced healthcare practice
• Health promotion
• Disease management
• Research and evidence-based care

Strong Postgraduate Pathways

The qualification provides progression opportunities into:

• Master’s-level health science programmes
• Advanced nursing education
• Research-focused healthcare study
• Nurse Practitioner pathways (for eligible nurses)

Interdisciplinary Learning Environment

Students from different healthcare backgrounds learn together, creating:

• Collaborative healthcare understanding
• Interdisciplinary communication skills
• Broader healthcare perspectives

Supportive International Student Services

EIT provides:

• International student advisors
• Academic learning support
• Online learning assistance
• Wellbeing services
• One-to-one student guidance

Programme Structure / Subjects Offered

The programme consists of 60 credits of postgraduate study.

2026 Course Options Include

• Advanced Clinical Assessment & Diagnostic Reasoning
• Advanced Pathophysiology for Health Professionals
• Advanced Practice for Disease Management
• Ethical Concepts and Legal Issues for Advanced Practice
• Pharmacotherapeutics for Advanced Nursing/Midwifery Practice
• Advanced Practice to Support Elder Health
• Research Paradigms for Nursing Science
• Health Promotion
• Research Methods and Design
• Applied Nutrition
• Health in Aotearoa New Zealand

Disciplines / Specialisations Offered

The programme supports healthcare professionals from:

• Nursing
• Allied Health
• Public Health
• Health Promotion
• Healthcare Management
• Community Health
• Clinical Practice
• Health Research

Career Outcomes

Graduates may work in:

• Advanced nursing practice
• Allied health services
• Healthcare leadership
• Public health
• Research support
• Project management
• Health promotion

Possible Career Roles

• Advanced Practice Nurse
• Health Promotion Advisor
• Allied Health Professional
• Healthcare Project Coordinator
• Clinical Educator
• Research Assistant
• Community Health Practitioner

Programme Highlights

Key Advantages

• Flexible online and blended learning
• Suitable for working professionals
• Advanced healthcare knowledge development
• Pathway to master’s qualifications
• Interdisciplinary healthcare focus
• Research and evidence-based practice emphasis
• Internationally recognised Level 8 qualification
• Small and supportive learning environment

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

Latest Programme Updates

• EIT continues expanding flexible postgraduate healthcare learning
• Increased focus on interdisciplinary healthcare practice
• Ongoing development of online postgraduate delivery systems
• Enhanced evidence-based healthcare learning pathways

Special Requirements

Students may require:

• Laptop/computer access
• Reliable internet connection
• Participation in online workshops
• Independent postgraduate-level study skills

For some nursing pathways:

• Current nursing registration may be required
• Clinical workplace engagement may be beneficial

Visa Requirements for International Students

International students studying in New Zealand generally require:

• Valid student visa
• Offer of Place from EIT
• Proof of tuition fee payment
• Evidence of sufficient living funds
• Valid passport
• Health and travel insurance
• Medical certificates if required

International Student Experience

International students often appreciate:

• Flexible online-supported learning
• Smaller class sizes
• Strong academic support
• Practical healthcare focus
• Affordable living compared to larger New Zealand cities