Toitū te Waiora has successfully concluded its review of the Public Health qualification, which has received approval from NZQA. This reviewed and updated qualification reflects the evolving needs of the sector and provides clear pathways for learners and workforce development. The revised qualification is as follows:  

• New Zealand Certificate in Public Health and Health Promotion Level 5 [Ref: 1865 v4]

The changes  

There are minor updates to the graduate profile outcome and specifications, to ensure the qualification remains fit for purpose. 

Changes to the qualification include:   

• Qualification Specifications updated for consistency with other health and wellbeing qualifications. A new set of guiding competencies was added to inform programme development.  

• Strategic Purpose Statement updated to better reflect the intent of improving equity as described in the Graduate Profile.  

• Graduate Profile Outcomes restructured to bring the active verbs to the forefront and language updated to reflect current usage.   

• Education Pathway updated to add another relevant level 4 qualification.   

The review  

Review of the qualification commenced in November 2024 with industry and provider stakeholders. Consultation consisted of a broad survey followed by individual kōrero with industry and provider stakeholders.  

Changes were implemented based on sector feedback, with public consultation providing an additional opportunity for input.  

Next steps for providers 

Providers can now develop programmes leading to this updated qualification. To assist in this process, we strongly encourage providers to review:

Request programme endorsement – Toitū te Waiora  

We extend our thanks to everyone who contributed to this review. Your input has been invaluable in shaping the future of health and wellbeing education in Aotearoa.  

For more information, contact us at [email protected].