Study the Postgraduate Diploma in Health Sciences (PGDipHealSc) in Addiction and Co-existing Disorders
Build deeper insight into addiction and co-existing disorders
At Otago, you will learn from experienced academics and clinicians working across addiction, mental health, and related health fields. The programme is designed for working professionals, with flexible study supported by compulsory block courses in Christchurch. You will join a postgraduate learning community that encourages critical thinking, collaboration, and reflective practice while exploring real issues affecting individuals, whānau, and communities.
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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 Addiction and Co-existing Disorders
Learn where this subject can take you and discover the full range of study options, from undergraduate programmes to postgraduate pathways.
Study Addiction and Co-existing Disorders at Otago
Career opportunities
A qualification in Addiction and Co-existing Disorders supports career development across a wide range of health and social service settings.
Possible pathways include:
- Addiction or mental health practitioner
- Clinical leadership or service development roles
- Policy or planning roles in health organisations
- Research or evaluation roles in health and wellbeing
- Community education or advocacy roles
Connect research, evidence, and professional practice
Otago brings together expertise from addiction, mental health, and wider health disciplines to explore the complex relationship between substance use and co-existing conditions. You will engage with current research, contemporary thinking, and evidence informed practice while learning with professionals from diverse backgrounds. This interdisciplinary approach encourages new perspectives and supports more integrated responses to the challenges faced by people experiencing addiction and co-existing disorders.
