University of Auckland

What you'll study

The programme provides a concentrated study of the core areas of paediatric medicine and child health. Teaching combines clinical reasoning and evidence-based practice with practical aspects of assessment and management across the age range from neonates to adolescents.

• Growth and development: normal physical, cognitive and psychosocial development and recognising deviations from expected trajectories.
• Clinical assessment and diagnostic reasoning: paediatric history-taking, examination techniques, interpretation of common investigations and formulation of management plans.
• Acute paediatric conditions: recognition and initial management of common emergencies and acute presentations in children.
• Chronic and complex care: long-term conditions such as asthma, epilepsy, diabetes and developmental disorders and approaches to multidisciplinary care.
• Neonatal and perinatal considerations: basic principles of neonatal assessment and transitional care relevant to paediatric practice.
• Child protection, communication and family-centred care: safeguarding, working with families, cultural competence (including care for Māori and Pacific families) and ethical issues in paediatric practice.
• Evidence-based practice and quality improvement: appraisal of paediatric literature, application of guidelines and participation in clinical audit or quality projects.

Structure and delivery

The Graduate Certificate is an intensive, taught programme delivered by the Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences. Learning methods include lectures, case-based learning, clinical tutorials and assessed assignments. Clinical teaching is supported through links with paediatric services and hospitals across Auckland.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a relevant tertiary qualification and demonstrate clinical experience in health care. Typical applicants include medical graduates, registered nurses, and allied health professionals working in settings that care for children and adolescents.

• Relevant degree or professional qualification in a health-related field.
• Current registration or licence to practise where applicable (for example, medical or nursing registration).
• Professional experience in a clinical role involving children, or employer support for participation in the programme.
• Evidence of English language proficiency where the applicant’s previous qualification was not taught in English, in line with university requirements.

Specific entry pathways and any required documentation are detailed in the university admissions guidance; prospective students should consult the faculty for advice on eligibility and credit transfer from prior study or professional development.

Career prospects

Graduates use this certificate to enhance clinical practice, broaden scope of responsibility, or progress towards more advanced postgraduate training. The qualification supports roles such as:

• Clinical staff working in paediatric wards or emergency departments.
• Community child health practitioners and primary care clinicians seeking greater confidence in managing paediatric conditions.
• Nurse specialists and allied health clinicians aiming for advanced practice roles or leadership in paediatric services.
• Clinicians preparing for specialist paediatric training pathways or further postgraduate study (for example, a postgraduate diploma or master's degree).
• Health professionals involved in child health service improvement, education and policy development.

Why study at University of Auckland

The University of Auckland's Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences provides paediatric teaching informed by clinical practice and research. Students benefit from teaching staff who are practising clinicians and researchers, clinical links with paediatric services in Auckland and opportunities to learn in multidisciplinary settings.

The programme emphasises culturally responsive care, reflecting the university’s commitment to addressing the health needs of diverse communities, including Māori and Pacific peoples. Flexible delivery options and close connections with hospitals and health services make the certificate a practical choice for working health professionals seeking to strengthen their paediatric skills.