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Master of Health Sciences

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Course details

Master of Health Sciences
NZQF Level 9

About the course

The Master of Health Sciences (MHealSc) degree allows study at a postgraduate level across a range of health disciplines, and research experience (thesis, dissertation or project) in the student's area of specialisation.

Normally before embarking upon study within the Master of Health Sciences programme, students would first complete a Postgraduate Certificate in Health Sciences (PGCertHealSc) and/or a Postgraduate Diploma in Health Sciences (PGDipHealSc). Students are normally required to obtain a B average over their Postgraduate Diploma in order to be admitted to Masters study.

Entry requirements

  • Admission to the programme shall be subject to the approval of the Programme Academic Co-ordinator (or nominee).
Every applicant, except those falling under section 1(c), shall normally be required to satisfy all of the following:
  1. be a graduate in a health-related field or possess an appropriate health professional qualification requiring at least three years of full-time tertiary study;
  2. have completed the Postgraduate Diploma in Health Sciences or equivalent with grades averaging B or better;
  3. have completed 30 points of research methods at NZQF Level 8 with a grade (or average grade if more than one paper is used to complete the 30 points) of B+ or better; and
  4. provide evidence of ability for advanced level academic study.
Applicants for admission where non-standard research methods requirements apply (i.e. for the Bioethics endorsement, or where a NZQF Level 9 research methods paper is required in the Masters’ programme, or where an exemption from a research methods requirement has been granted, or in other approved exceptional circumstances) shall normally be required to satisfy all of the following:
  • be a graduate in a health-related field or possess an appropriate health professional qualification requiring at least three years of full-time tertiary study;
  • have completed the Postgraduate Diploma in Health Sciences or equivalent with grades averaging B+ or better; and
  • provide evidence of ability for advanced level academic study.

About the provider

At Otago, you will have unprecedented opportunities. You will be taught by international experts in their fields; you will gain a world-class qualification, and you will be able to contribute to ground-breaking research.

The student experience at Otago is exceptional. You will join a diverse population of well over 20,000 students from around New Zealand and more than 100 nations around the world. Importantly, you will have the opportunity to truly define yourself and choose your own direction in life.

Tens of thousands of Otago graduates now live in all corners of the globe, many contributing to law, health, science, business and Government. Many of New Zealand's most renowned artists, novelists, poets and leaders also received their start at Otago.

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