Bachelor of Social Services (Specialty)
Social Services
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
Gain the knowledge, skills, and practical experience needed to become a capable and confident social services professional in Aotearoa New Zealand, specialising in Counselling or Health and Wellbeing Practice.
NZ$10,206
inc GST
Enquire about international pricing
This course starts anytime
NZQA Level 7 Certification (360 Credits)
Advanced
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
NZ$10,206
inc GST
Enquire about international pricing
This course starts anytime
NZQA Level 7 Certification (360 Credits)
Advanced
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Core skills this course teaches
Work as a competent social services professional
Graduates can deliver professional practice within the community, demonstrating social responsibility and eligibility for professional association membership.
High-level self-awareness and reflective practice
What You're Signing Up For
This programme educates students to become effective social service professionals, with graduates gaining strong self-awareness, cultural competency, and communication skills. The Bachelor of Social Services covers foundational theory and practical tools, leading into a chosen specialty—Counselling or Health and Wellbeing Practice. Students complete academic coursework and industry placements to build real-world experience, and upon graduating may be eligible for professional association membership in their specialty.
Course Content
- Personal and Academic Effectiveness
- Ka Mua, Ka Muri—Te Ao Māori in social services practice
- Introduction to Social Service Ethics and Legislation
- Applied Communication 1 & 2
- Theories of Human Behaviour
- Careers, Specialties and Pathways in Social Services
- Diversity and Social Justice
- Research for Social Services
- Theory for Practice (Specialty-specific)
- Integrated Practice (Specialty-specific, including placements)
- Safe and Ethical Practitioner
- Wānaka—Working with Māori in social service contexts
- Addictions and Co-existing Problems
- Applied Social Issues and Social Policy
- Practitioner Inquiry
- Communicating with Whānau, Families and Communities
- Socially Responsible Leadership
What you need to know first
Find these employment opportunities
Community counsellorSchool counsellorMental Health AssistantSupport WorkerHealth Education and Promotion rolesCommunity development workerNon-Governmental Organisation (NGO) social services rolesAdvocate roles in mental health/disability
Unlock these industries
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.
