Study the Postgraduate Diploma in Health Sciences (PGDipHealSc) in Bioethics
Study ethical challenges through diverse professional perspectives
At Otago, you will learn alongside health professionals and students from a wide range of disciplines and practice settings. The programme draws on expertise across bioethics, health care, law, and research, creating a rich learning environment shaped by discussion, reflection, and critical analysis. Flexible distance learning allows you to continue working while engaging with advanced study.
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If this is the qualification for you, get started with your application today.
Programme details
Regulations for the Postgraduate Diploma in Health Sciences (PGDipHealSc)
Admission to the Programme
- Admission to the programme shall be subject to the approval of the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Health Sciences).
- Every applicant must
- be a graduate or possess an appropriate health professional qualification requiring at least three years' full-time tertiary study;
- if enrolling for an endorsed diploma, have experience of or be currently working in the relevant field of health care.
Structure of the Programme
- The programme of study shall consist of approved papers, to the value of 120 points, which must be as specified in the schedule of endorsed options if the diploma is to be endorsed in an area of specialisation.
- With approval from the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Health Sciences), papers to the value of 60 points in a relevant or related subject offered by another university or tertiary institution may be credited to the diploma.
- The papers shall constitute a coherent and integrated programme of study in the Health Sciences discipline.
- A candidate who has completed the requirements for the Postgraduate Certificate in Health Sciences shall be exempted from those papers in the programme for the diploma which have been previously passed for the certificate.
Duration of the Programme
- A candidate for the diploma shall normally follow a programme of study for not less than one year of full-time study or the equivalent in part-time study.
- A full-time candidate shall complete the requirements for the diploma within two years of admission to the programme and a part-time candidate shall complete the requirements within four years.
Level of Award of the Diploma
The diploma may be awarded with distinction or with credit.
Variations
The Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Health Sciences) may in exceptional circumstances approve a course of study which does not comply with these regulations.
Explore more in Bioethics
Learn where this subject can take you and discover the full range of study options, from undergraduate programmes to postgraduate pathways.
Career opportunities
Bioethics opens doors to roles where ethical insight is essential. You will gain skills in critical thinking, communication, and ethical analysis that apply across many sectors.
Possible career pathways include:
- Ethics consultant in healthcare or research institutions
- Policy adviser for government or NGOs
- Clinical ethics committee member
- Academic researcher or lecturer
- Health services manager or adviser
Build confidence navigating emerging ethical health challenges
Bioethics study at Otago supports health professionals working in complex and evolving environments. You will investigate issues connected to health care, research, technology, and society while strengthening your ability to analyse difficult questions from multiple perspectives. The programme encourages thoughtful leadership, informed decision-making, and ethical reflection that can shape conversations within workplaces, health systems, and professional communities.
