Postgraduate Diploma in Digital Health (PGDipDigHeal)
Course details
| NZQF Level | 8 |
|---|
About the course
Healthcare systems are increasingly dependent on data, technology and digital solutions, while at the same time consumers expect to use personalised digital technologies to enhance their own individual health and well-being. Future roles for healthcare professionals will include the provision and transformation of services using digital technology, but there is an identified shortage of people with the right skills to meet the growing demand for professionals working in the specialty of Digital Health.
The Postgraduate Diploma in Digital Health (PGDipDigHeal) is offered by the Department of Public Health – Dunedin, in collaboration with colleagues in Bioethics and Computer Science, and experts from industry and the health sector. The PGDipDigHeal is designed for people working or planning to work in health sector management and leadership roles. Delivered online, the course will suit full-time students who are seeking a qualification in this area but who cannot physically be in Dunedin. Similarly, it will meet the needs of professionals who wish to upskill part-time or full-time, who may not be able to take leave from current employment, or those who are caring for dependents. Graduates of the PGDipDigHeal will have gained an understanding of the concepts and practical skills required to evaluate, select and implement health information systems and digital health products and services.
The DIGH 701 and DIGH 703 papers are foundational, introducing the fundamentals of digital health, including the underlying technologies, the place and future of digital tech in the healthcare system, the managerial, social and ethical implications of the use of technology in healthcare, and the selection and application of digital health solutions for/by consumers, groups and populations. The other papers complement these fundamentals by covering in detail issues of ethical and regulatory compliance as they apply to the use of digital health, as well as its governance in a range of organisational settings (from general practices through to larger-scale entities (e.g., hospitals and health boards)). More specialist offerings will be available to cater to the particular capabilities and interests of groups of students – covering, for instance, the use of data science and data analytics in evidence-based healthcare, or the application of advanced interaction technologies (e.g., augmented reality) to telemedicine and in rehabilitation.
It is possible to complete the Postgraduate Diploma in Digital Health in 12 months or over a longer period.
Entry requirements
General entry requirements
A university entrance qualification is essential for admission to the University of Otago for all types of programmes. You must also be at least 16 years of age by the first day of classes in your period of study and meet English language requirements.
Domestic students
You need to have met the New Zealand University Entrance standard, based on your achievement in secondary school or other prior study. Learn about the different categories for achieving University Entrance and what information you may need to provide with your application.
International students
Check recognised entry qualifications by country, and find out what documents you need to provide for a successful application.
English language requirements
All students must be proficient in the use of English. If your first language is not English, there are several ways you may provide evidence of English proficiency, including through prior secondary or tertiary study, internationally recognised English language tests, and foundation language programmes.
The level of English proficiency required for undergraduate study is equivalent to an overall IELTS score of 6.0, with no individual band below 5.5.
For details about what is accepted as evidence of English proficiency, please refer to:
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.