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Healthcare Courses in New Zealand: Top Universities, Fees, and Careers

Discover the best healthcare courses in New Zealand, including medicine, nursing, and public health. Learn about top universities, fees, scholarships, and career pathways for international students.

Sri Roopa Rao M 27 August 2025

Healthcare is evolving rapidly with new technology and the changing needs of patients today. New Zealand is leading this change by offering top universities with modern facilities, practical training, and globally valued degrees. By studying healthcare courses in New Zealand, students acquire the skills and experience necessary to build strong, future-ready careers in one of the most respected professions globally.

Why Study Healthcare in New Zealand?

Choosing New Zealand for healthcare studies is a smart move, as it offers students the ideal balance of top-quality education, practical training, and global career opportunities. The country is renowned for producing skilled healthcare professionals who are well-equipped to face the challenges of today’s medical world. Here’s why so many health care courses in New Zealand for international students are becoming popular:

1. Worldwide Recognition

Healthcare degrees from New Zealand, whether in medicine, nursing, pharmacy, or public health, are highly respected worldwide. Graduates can work in many countries without worrying about their degree being accepted.

2. Practical Learning

Universities place a strong emphasis on hands-on experience. Students have the opportunity to work in hospitals, clinics, and community health centres, which helps them build real-world skills, not just classroom knowledge.

3. Modern & Inclusive Healthcare

New Zealand’s healthcare system combines modern medical practices with indigenous (Māori) approaches. This provides students with a broader understanding of healthcare and teaches them how to work effectively with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds.

4. Affordable Education

Studying in New Zealand is often cheaper than in the US, UK, or Australia. On top of that, scholarships are available, making it easier for healthcare courses NZ for international students to manage costs.

5. Work & Residency Options

Healthcare jobs are always in demand in New Zealand. After completing their degree, students can obtain a post-study work visa (up to 3 years) and have a good chance of applying for permanent residency.

6. Safe & Friendly Country

New Zealand is renowned for being a safe, welcoming, and multicultural destination. International students often find it easier to settle in and feel at home while studying.

Types of Healthcare Courses in New Zealand

Healthcare studies in New Zealand come in many forms, from basic diplomas to advanced postgraduate degrees. These courses combine theory with practical training, so students are well-prepared for various roles in the healthcare sector. Here are the main options:

1. Medicine (MBChB)

Duration: 6 years (undergraduate pathway)
What you’ll study: General medicine, surgery, paediatrics, and internal medicine, with chances to specialise later.
Where: University of Auckland, University of Otago.

2. Nursing

Duration: 3 years (Bachelor of Nursing), plus postgraduate options.
What you’ll study: Patient care, clinical practice, midwifery, and mental health nursing.
Where: AUT, Massey University, University of Auckland, Ara Institute of Canterbury.

3. Pharmacy

Duration: 4 years (Bachelor of Pharmacy).
What you’ll study: Clinical pharmacy, drug development, patient counselling, and pharmaceutical sciences.
Where: University of Otago.

4. Public Health

Programs: Bachelor Of Health Science In New Zealand (BHealthSc), Master of Public Health (MPH).
What you’ll study: Epidemiology, health policy, environmental health, and community well-being.
Where: University of Auckland, University of Otago, Victoria University of Wellington.

5. Allied Health

Fields: Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, Medical Imaging, Speech & Language Therapy.
Duration: 3-4 years, depending on the course.
What you’ll study: Rehabilitation, diagnostics, therapy, and patient support services.
Where: AUT, University of Otago, Massey University.

6. Health Management

Programs: Master of Health Management, Postgraduate Diplomas in Health Services, MBA in Healthcare Management In New Zealand.
What you’ll study: Hospital administration, healthcare leadership, and system management.
Where: Massey University, University of Auckland.

7. Aged Care & Disability Support

Programs: Certificates and Diplomas, including a diploma in health care in New Zealand.
What you’ll study: Elderly care, disability support, rehabilitation, and community health work.
Where: Ara Institute of Canterbury, Otago Polytechnic, WelTec.

Top Universities for Healthcare Courses in New Zealand

New Zealand boasts some of the world's top universities and institutes that train students for successful careers in healthcare. These places are known for their modern facilities, strong research, and close ties with hospitals and health organisations. Here are the top options for international students:

1. University of Auckland

One of the country’s top universities with globally respected healthcare programs.

Courses: Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy, Public Health, Clinical Pharmacy
Strengths: Strong hospital partnerships, modern simulation labs, research-based teaching
Tuition: approx. NZD 50,000-55,000 per year

2. University of Otago

New Zealand’s oldest university is a leader in the field of health sciences.

Courses: Medicine, Dentistry, Physiotherapy, Public Health, Pharmacy
Strengths: Renowned School of Medicine & Dentistry, excellent practical placements, strong research culture
Tuition: approx. NZD 45,000-50,000 per year

3. Auckland University of Technology (AUT)

Popular among international students for its practical learning style.

Courses: Nursing, Midwifery, Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, Public Health
Strengths: Hands-on training, multicultural student community, strong industry placements
Tuition: approx. NZD 40,000-44,000 per year

4. Massey University

Well-known for healthcare, public health, and veterinary sciences.

Courses: Nursing, Public Health, Allied Health
Strengths: Flexible learning options (online and blended), strong research focus
Tuition: approx. NZD 45,000-52,000 per year

5. University of Waikato

An emerging choice for health and human performance studies.

Courses: Health, Sport & Human Performance, Public Health
Strengths: Focus on sports science, health promotion, and community health
Tuition: approx. NZD 40,000-42,000 per year

6. Victoria University of Wellington

Strong in public health and health promotion.

Courses: Bachelor of Health, Master of Public Health, Nursing
Strengths: Research in health policy, close connections with government health organisations
Tuition: approx. NZD 36,000-38,000 per year

7. University of Canterbury

Great for health sciences and allied health programs.

Courses: Health Sciences, Nursing, Speech & Language Pathology
Strengths: Affordable living in Christchurch, practical learning, skill-focused teaching
Tuition: approx. NZD 40,000-42,000 per year

8. Institutes & Polytechnics (Ara Institute of Canterbury, Otago Polytechnic, WelTec)

Best for diplomas and certificates in Nursing, Aged Care, and Disability Support.

Strengths: Affordable, industry-linked, skill-based training
Tuition: approx. NZD 25,000-30,000 per year

Tuition Fees & Scholarships

A. Tuition Fees for Healthcare Courses

Studying healthcare courses NZ can be expensive, but the fees vary depending on the course and university. Here’s a general idea of what you can expect:

1. University of Otago (Health Sciences)

Health Sciences First Year: approx. NZ$43,253
Years 2-4 (like Physiotherapy, Medical Lab Science): approx. NZ$50,555 per year
Medicine (MBChB): Year 2 approx. NZ$96,731; Years 4-6 approx. NZ$110,550 per year

2. University of Auckland (Undergraduate Health Degrees)

Bachelor of Health Sciences & Nursing: approx. NZ$40,780-42,818
Bachelor of Medicine & Surgery (from Year 2): approx. NZ$86,561
Bachelor of Pharmacy / Medical Imaging (Honours): approx. NZ$52,585-55,214

3. General Postgraduate Programs (All Fields)

Graduate Certificate: approx. NZ$18,370-24,050
Graduate Diploma: approx. NZ$36,730-47,030
Taught Master’s: approx. NZ$56,220-70,120

4. University of Waikato (2025)

Tuition depends on the exact course and subjects chosen (students can request a detailed breakdown directly from the university).

B. Scholarships & Financial Aid

To help offset costs, New Zealand universities and the government offer numerous scholarships for international students, including those from India. Some popular ones are:

1. University of Auckland Scholarships

International Student Excellence Scholarship: Up to NZ$10,000 toward tuition
India High Achievers Scholarship: Up to NZ$20,000 for outstanding Indian students
International School Leaver Scholarship: Up to NZ$20,000 for qualifying students
Masters Scholarships in Medical Sciences: Up to NZ$20,000 per year for international Master’s students in medical sciences

2. University of Otago Scholarships

Wide range of merit-based awards and external scholarships
Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships: Full funding covering tuition, travel, living costs, and insurance for eligible students

3. Massey University Scholarships

Multiple scholarships at undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD levels, including options for international students

4. Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships (Government Scholarships)

Fully funded awards covering tuition, living costs, accommodation, travel, health insurance, and even thesis allowances.

5. External Funding

Some institutions and governments also provide scholarships for postgraduate study in fields important to New Zealand’s development, such as healthcare and public health.

Admission Process for Healthcare in New Zealand

Getting into a health care course in New Zealand is quite straightforward, but the exact steps depend on whether you’re applying for medicine, nursing, pharmacy, public health, or allied health. Here’s a simple breakdown:

Step 1: Choose Your Program & University

Decide which healthcare field you want to study (like Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy, Public Health, or Allied Health). Then, shortlist universities such as the University of Auckland, University of Otago, AUT, Massey, or institutes like Ara and Otago Polytechnic.

Step 2: Check Eligibility

For Undergraduate Programs: You need a Class 12 (Science stream) with a focus on Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. Most universities expect students to achieve at least a 70-75% grade in these subjects. Medicine requires you to first complete a Health Sciences First Year (HSFY) at Otago or Auckland before moving into the MBChB program.
For Postgraduate Programs: You need a bachelor’s degree in a relevant healthcare field. Some programs may also ask for work experience.

Step 3: Meet English Language Requirements

International students must show English proficiency:

IELTS: Overall 6.5 (with no band less than 6.0)
TOEFL iBT: 90-100+
PTE Academic: 58-65 minimum

Note: Some courses, such as Nursing or Medicine, may require higher scores for professional registration.

Step 4: Program-Specific Needs

Medicine: Requires UCAT (University Clinical Aptitude Test) + interview.
Nursing: Needs health checks, vaccination records, and sometimes police clearance.
Pharmacy, Public Health, Allied Health: May need SOP (Statement of Purpose), references, CV, or work experience (for postgrad).

Step 5: Application Timeline

Applications typically open around March or April for the upcoming academic year. Apply early because healthcare programs have limited seats.

Step 6: Submit Required Documents

Most universities will ask for:

Academic transcripts (10+2 or Bachelor’s degree)
Proof of English test scores (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE)
Passport copy
SOP (Statement of Purpose)
CV/Resume (for postgrad)
Letters of Recommendation (if required)

Step 7: Get an Offer & Apply for a Visa

If selected, you’ll receive an Offer of Place. Then apply for a New Zealand Student Visa. You’ll need proof of funds, tuition fee payment, and health insurance.

Step 8: Arrival & Orientation

Once in New Zealand, attend the university’s orientation program, arrange accommodation, and complete health/safety clearances before classes begin.

Career Opportunities After Healthcare Courses in New Zealand

Finishing a healthcare degree in New Zealand can lead to many rewarding careers. Healthcare is one of the most in-demand fields worldwide, so graduates not only find good job opportunities in New Zealand but also benefit from global recognition for their degrees. Here’s what students can expect: