Bachelor of Health Sciences (BHSc) in Health Education University of Canterbury

The BHSc is a three-year programme that provides a comprehensive overview of health and health care. It is a multidisciplinary qualification and our graduates are using their skills in the health sector and beyond.

Aotearoa New Zealand's health and disability sector is characterised by a diverse workforce made up of many occupations. This diversity is essential to be able to provide the range of services required to meet population health outcomes. Enables graduates to improve health and well-being through disease prevention, health promotion, and health service planning, delivery, and evaluation.

This major prepares graduates with the knowledge, skills and confidence to work with individuals and groups to enhance well-being. They will develop specific health education and pedagogical knowledge that is applicable in a diverse range of settings. Experiential learning in a variety of contexts (eg, mental health, sexuality and nutrition) will allow students to recognise factors that influence health and to develop a wide range of strategies to address them.

Students will engage in debate and critical reflection on a range of contemporary health issues. Through this engagement students will develop an understanding of ethical issues and principles, a respect for the autonomy and choice of both individuals and groups, and competency in collaborative and consultative ways of working.

How do I plan my degree?

The BHSc requires a total of 360 points made up of:

• at least 135 points from compulsory courses
• at least 90 points from one subject major
• the remaining points may be taken from within Health Sciences or any other degree offered at UC.

At least 225 of the total points must be above 100-level and at least 90 points must be for courses at 300-level. In the second and third years of study, students will gain specialist knowledge in their chosen major.

Career opportunities

Career options for students who major in Health Education might include employment in health-related institutions and agencies such as Community and Public Health (in Nutrition, Sexuality, Health Promoting Schools and Mental Health teams), Drug and Alcohol agencies, Family Planning, the Mental Health Foundation, Nutrition Advisories, Red Cross and teaching Health Education in secondary schools to a senior NCEA level (teaching qualification required).