Bachelor of Social Services (Specialty)
Social Services
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
Gain the skills to be a confident and capable social services professional in New Zealand, specialising in Counselling or Health and Wellbeing Practice, with a focus on Te Tiriti o Waitangi and diverse communities.
NZ$8,874
inc GST
Enquire about international pricing
Core skills this course teaches
Develop professional practice in social services
Graduate as a practitioner capable of providing professional practice within community contexts, demonstrating social responsibility and supporting diverse clients.
Cultural competence and awareness
Demonstrate deep understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and the cultural diversity of Aotearoa in social service contexts.
About This Course
This degree prepares students for professional practice in the social and community services sector, with options to specialise in Counselling or Health and Wellbeing Practice. Learners build high-level self-awareness, cultural competence, and effective communication skills. The programme blends face-to-face and online learning with real-world scenarios and interactive group experiences. Fieldwork placements give students practical experience. Graduates meet the standards for professional membership in their chosen specialty and are equipped to support a diverse range of clients, empowering individuals and whānau to achieve wellbeing and potential within their communities.
Course Content
- Specialty selection: Counselling or Health and Wellbeing Practice
- Te Tiriti o Waitangi and cultural competence
- Ethics and legislation in social services
- Reflective practice and self-management
- Communication skills for client support
- Theories of human behaviour and development
- Group facilitation and collaborative practice
- Research methods in social services
- Placement and fieldwork in professional settings
- Addictions and co-existing problems
- Working with Māori in social service contexts
- Safe and ethical professional practice
- Applied social issues and policy
- Leadership in community and social services
Entry Requirements
Build towards these roles
CounsellorMental Health AdvisorWellbeing CoachYouth WorkerWhānau Ora NavigatorDisability Support WorkerCommunity Support WorkerPolicy AdvisorCommunity Development Worker
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.
