Health Bridging Certificate (Level 4 only)
Health Studies
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
A Level 4 full-time or part-time certificate that prepares students who do not yet meet diploma or degree-level entry requirements for health programmes, helping them to gain the academic skills and subject knowledge needed to progress to further health-related study.
NZ$4,448
inc GST
Enquire about international pricing
Core skills this course teaches
Develop tertiary study skills
Acquire academic and digital literacy for successful further study through completion of assignments, effective research, and use of information technology.
Communicate effectively in academic and health contexts
Demonstrate improved communication and collaboration skills as both speaker and listener suitable for health and study environments.
About This Course
This 17-week (full-time) or two-year (part-time) certificate is the second part of Otago Polytechnic’s health bridging pathway. Designed for those not yet meeting academic entry requirements for health diplomas or degrees, it develops core knowledge in biological science and communication, as well as tertiary study skills, in a supportive and flexible blended delivery format. Successful completion supports academic entry to a range of Otago Polytechnic health programmes, though additional non-academic requirements may also apply.
Course Content
- Skills for Successful Tertiary Study: Learn how to access and use information technologies for academic and/or vocational purposes.
- Building Communication Competence: Develop communication and collaboration skills as a speaker and listener in a learning group.
- Human Biological Science 2: Understand and apply knowledge of the basic structure and function of major body systems.
- Introduction to Careers in Health: Explore career development in the health profession.
Entry Requirements
New Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment Pathways (Level 3) – Health Context (Otago Polytechnic's Level 3 Health Bridging Certificate), or equivalent, e.g. NCEA Level 2 including 14 credits in Biology and/or Chemistry.
Build towards these roles
Health Care AssistantCommunity Support WorkerMental Health Support Worker
Build skills in these industries
Healthcare
Otago Polytechnic is known for high quality, hands on learning that leads to strong outcomes. With excellent student satisfaction, high graduate employment rates, and a commitment to sustainability, it’s a place where practical skills meet purpose. Their award winning programmes span design, fashion, creative arts, trades, health, and business, giving you real experience and real confidence for whatever comes next.
