For students who want to work in people-centred, support-focused roles, New Zealand offers health and wellbeing qualifications that can build practical skills, support entry into the workforce, and create progression into higher-level study.

Why choose this pathway
A health and wellbeing qualification can be a strong option for students who want to make a meaningful difference while developing practical, workforce-ready skills. It can support entry into support-focused roles and may also create progression into related study in health, community, or social services.

Pathway map
Certificate (Level 3 or 4) → Advanced Care and Support / Social and Community Services (Level 4) → Related Diploma, Degree, or further study in health, social services, or leadership and management

Entry requirements
Typical entry requirements may include:

• Secondary school qualifications for certificate-level entry
• English language requirements depending on programme and provider
• In some cases, relevant work or volunteer experience may strengthen eligibility
• Additional suitability requirements depending on the area of study

Duration and approximate costs
Typical duration:
1 year for many Level 4 certificate programmes

Approximate tuition range:
Many programmes range from approximately NZD $10,000 to NZD $35,000 depending on level and institution.

Career outcomes
Possible career outcomes include:

• Healthcare Assistant
• Support Worker
• Disability Support Worker
• Mental Health and Addiction Support Worker
• Community Health or Social Services Support roles
• Progression into related health or wellbeing study

Residence pathway
Health and wellbeing study can support long-term career progression in New Zealand, but outcomes depend on the type of role secured, qualification level, employability, wage thresholds, employer accreditation, and immigration settings at the time of application.