The Graduate Diploma in Health and Rehabilitation Studies is a qualification designed to prepare graduates to seek roles within the specialists' fields of rehabilitation, palliative care and health of the older adult. Students will develop the skills and knowledge to work as unregulated health professionals within health related organisations and environments, whilst developing the application of analytical and evidenced based research skills, essential in the contemporary health profession.

After successful completion of this qualification, students will have the skills and knowledge to be able to:

1. Apply information gathering, analytical processes and communication skills to competently participate in the contemporary Aotearoa/New Zealand health care industry;
2. Utilise knowledge of the determinants of health to explore health promotion and disease prevention from a population and primary health context whilst considering the needs of individuals, whānau/families, groups and communities;
3. Explore the complexities of palliative and continuing care, and the health of the older person from a holistic and multidisciplinary approach;
4. Examine the roles and responsibilities of the health professional in Aotearoa/New Zealand;
5. Analyse governance structures, policies and strategies that influence health outcomes for individuals and communities within Aotearoa/New Zealand;
6. Apply the principles of evidence based research inquiry to analyse contemporary healthcare
practice;
7. Analyse transformative, contemporary and restorative rehabilitation from a multidisciplinary approach.

This qualification provides the student with a pathway to higher educational learning at a post-graduate level (Level 8).

An undergraduate degree; or a Level 6 Diploma in a cognate subject plus appropriate practical, professional or educational experience; or be able to demonstrate equivalent practical, professional or educational experience. Evidence of English language competency where English is not a first language. Additional Requirements Equivalent relevant practical and/or professional experience must be evidenced through the submission of a curriculum vitae detailing relevant work experience and professional achievements. Evidence of ability to meet academic and any other requirements must be provided. For international applicants who come from non-English speaking backgrounds, an IELTS Academic score of 6.0 with no band score lower than 5.5, or an equivalent relevant English Proficiency Outcome as outlined in NZQF-related rules (Rule 18). For domestic applicants for whom English is not their first language, evidence of language competency may be required.