Master of Health Science
COVID-19 vaccination information
You don’t need to supply evidence of your Covid-19 vaccination status to apply for this programme. However, most placement providers will require evidence from you that you are fully vaccinated before allowing you to complete a placement at their organisation. Placements are an integral part of this programme and you’ll need to complete these to be able to successfully achieve your qualification.
Extend your expertise in health science and expand your career opportunities.
If you have a degree in nursing or a health-related area and you’d like to extend your knowledge and skills for advanced practice in the health sector, this programme will build on your specialist knowledge.
The programme is tailored for health managers and health practitioners, specifically registered nurses and other health professionals working for DHBs, PHOs, the fitness industry and sports organisations, as well as social workers, community care workers and allied health practitioners.
You will expand your knowledge within an inter-disciplinary learning environment and develop skills in critical analysis, constructive synthesis, and advanced practice and research within your chosen discipline area.
There are two pathway options for achieving this qualification:
Scholarly Project option
This option requires you to complete six Level 8 courses of your choosing (totalling 180 credits) within three years full time or 6 years part time, plus two compulsory Level 9 courses (totalling 60 credits) which includes a scholarly project.
Thesis option
This option requires you to complete four Level 8 courses of your choosing (totalling 120 credits) within three years full time or 6 years part time, plus two compulsory Level 9 courses (totalling 120 credits) which includes a thesis.
Both options provide the opportunity to critically examine philosophical, methodological and ethical issues and applying these to undertake research.
Please note:
This programme includes compulsory two-day onsite workshops at the City campus for some courses. Not all courses are offered in both semesters. Some courses are prerequisites for others.
Please contact the department before enrolling. Email deptofhealthpractice@ara.ac.nz
B Average or better in the Postgraduate Diploma in Health Practice or equivalent (120 credits at level 8)
What if English is not my first Language?
If English is not your first language, we want to make sure that you will be successful in your chosen programme of study.
- Please provide a result from a test or qualification on the acceptable alternatives English Proficiency Outcomes Chart.
- If you are a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent Resident, complete an Admission and Enrolment form and Ara will contact you regarding a free assessment.
- If you are not a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent resident, book an IELTS or other test through the Ara Examination Centre or in your home country.
- IELTS scores used must be taken from a single IELTS Test Report Form and are valid for two years from the date of the test.
- What if I have achieved NCEA Level 3 University Entrance?
- The English Language requirements for this programme are higher than the minimum set by NZQA, therefore; applicants who have achieved NCEA Level 3 University Entrance may be required to provide evidence of English Language skills.
Overall IELTS 6.5 Academic
- 6.5 Listening
- 6.5 Reading
- 6.5 Writing
- 6.5 Speaking
Funding assistance
If you face unexpected financial hardship during your studies, we have several funds that you can apply for. These are designed to enable you to continue your current course of study. We also have a wide range of scholarships and awards that can provide financial assistance.
Find out moreCareer opportunities
This qualification will enable you to build on your specialist knowledge or progress to management positions within the health sector. It also provides an entry into health teaching in your area of practice.
Study pathways
This pathway can lead to higher level qualifications including doctoral research.
Master of Health Science
Extend your expertise in health science and expand your career opportunities.
Information | |
---|---|
Type | Postgraduate |
Code | CH4080 |
May be available for Study Visa? | Yes |
Credits | 240 |
Level | 9 |
Additional Equipment/Fees | Advised before enrolment |
May be eligible for Studylink? | Yes |
Reference | CH4080-STRU |
With an internationally-recognised Ara qualification, the world is your oyster. Our graduates can be found working and making a difference across the globe…
MoreCredit Recognition
If you have prior relevant experience or previous related study credits, you may be eligible for credit recognition towards this qualification.
Find out moreDocuments
- Admission & Enrolment Form PDF, 300 KB
- International Application Form PDF, 240 KB
Area of Interest

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