You'll study a mix of core and specialist papers, developing your knowledge of health related theory and practice, and choose to specialise in either public health or occupational health and safety. The course comprises 360 credits with 120 credits at Level 5, 120 credits at Level 6 and the final 120 credits at Level 7. A total of 225 credits are common core to both majors and there is the opportunity to have up to 15 unspecified credits depending on the major studied. Each major consists of 135 discipline specific credits. Year One The first year is made up of eight Level 5 common papers that are studied by all students. These provide a broad base of knowledge and skills that prepare you for specialisation in your second year of study. Year Two The second year contains four common core papers that all students study along with four specialist courses required for your selected major. Choose from: Public Health OR Occupational Health and Safety Along with your second year papers further developing your understanding of your specialist topics, you'll build your skills and understanding of professional practice. Year Three In your third year of study, you'll complete two common core papers at Level 7 and a further four specialist papers. A 30 credit professional practice paper enables you to embed your learning in workplace experiences to develop your professional practice models for use on graduation.

The following minimum criteria apply for entry to this course: University Entrance as specified on the NZQA website, OR successful completion of a qualification at Level 4 or above. You'll be required to: complete a statutory declaration around soundness of character, AND supply two referees that can be contacted to determine your suitability for work in the community health sector. If you have completed any recent tertiary study, at least one of the nominated referees must be a former tutor or department head (or equivalent). A criminal record check will be carried out on all applicants. Entry will be provisional until the check has been completed and the outcome of the check will be kept on record. Special Admission If you do not meet the academic requirements you may be given special admission if Toi Ohomai staff are satisfied you are capable of successfully completing the requirements. Special admission may also apply for applicants over 20 years. Information Session/Interview You’ll be invited to an information meeting prior to Toi Ohomai offering you a place. This is your opportunity to find out more about the course content and to make sure you're on the most appropriate course for your career aspirations and current level of experience. Standard Entry Criteria Admission, entry, selection, and enrolment into programmes will be in accordance with the Academic Regulations and/or, where approved, specific programme regulations. ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS IELTS Academic score of 6 with no band score lower than 5.5 or completed New Zealand Certificate in English Language Level 4 with the Academic Endorsement or meets a relevant English Proficiency Outcome as outlined by NZQA.