Bachelor of Health Sciences (BHealSc)
Course details
About the course
Together, we can ensure better health for all
Health systems in the future will see more initiatives in the community.
New health roles will be developed to deliver these initiatives and help individuals negotiate the jigsaw of health services available. Public health approaches will become increasingly important to address the broad health issues facing us in the future.
This career-focused qualification concentrates on the skills required to work with people and communities to promote health and ensure they access and receive the most appropriate care.
Navigate changing global health systems
As our world becomes more interconnected, new challenges are impacting the health and well-being of our communities.
These challenges include:
- Populations and people living for longer, and often with multiple long-term conditions and disabilities
- Limited health resources and greater demand for services
- Environmental and social change and their effects on health
With these challenges comes an increasing need to develop innovative approaches to health care.
The Bachelor of Health Sciences (BHealSc) is a three-year degree for those who want to be an integral part of these new healthcare approaches, with the opportunity to major (specialise) in four different areas.
Which major is right for you?
Career pathways
As a Bachelor of Health Sciences (BHealSc) graduate, you may work in a variety of roles in the healthcare system. Or use your qualification as a foundation for further study in one of the health professional programmes or at postgraduate level.
Rewarding careers exist in government policy, health promotion, and case management – it's not just doctors or dentists who make a difference.
RoleDetails| Case manager | Work in organisations that fund people's care or welfare and help people recover after injury. |
| Community health worker | Use specific cultural or community knowledge and strong networks within communities to promote health. |
| Health promoter | Plan, implement, and evaluate activities that promote health and well-being in communities. |
| Primary care co-ordinator | Help people find their way through the care offered by multiple providers in the community. |
| Policy analyst | Develop and implement public health policy, programmes, and regulation. Investigate how resources are allocated to, and used in, different health systems in both the public and private sector. |
| Programme co‑ordinator | Research, plan, implement, and evaluate health programmes and community networking. |
| Rehabilitation co‑ordinator | Analyse and develop rehabilitation plans that suit your client's aptitudes, education levels, physical abilities, and career goals. |
| Whānau ora navigator | Develop and implement whānau aspirational plans within a community setting. |
Please note: The Bachelor of Health Sciences (BHealSc) is different to Health Sciences First Year (HSFY). If you are intending to apply for one of the Health Sciences professional programmes based on your performance in your first year of study, you need to enrol in the Health Sciences First Year course.
About the provider
The University of Otago, New Zealand’s first university, was founded in 1869 and offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes with a strong emphasis on research and academic excellence. Ranked in the top 1% of universities globally and 2nd in New Zealand, it is also 214th worldwide according to QS rankings. Recognised as the top university in New Zealand for student academic performance by the Tertiary Education Commission, 96% of its graduates either enter the workforce or pursue further study shortly after graduation.
Located in Dunedin, a vibrant student city where students make up 20% of the population, the University benefits from a unique atmosphere. Dunedin, on the south-eastern coast of New Zealand’s South Island, is known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, featuring Victorian and Edwardian architecture, picturesque hills, and wildlife reserves.
The University’s campus is ranked the 5th most beautiful in the world by THE Student Voice, enhancing the educational experience. The Otago region offers diverse scenery and is close to popular destinations such as Queenstown. New Zealand is rated the 1st most beautiful country by Rough Guides 2024, is renowned for its natural beauty, Māori heritage, and multicultural society, providing a friendly, inclusive environment for students and residents.