University of Otago

What you'll study

This graduate diploma develops knowledge of normal and atypical child growth and development, common acute and chronic paediatric conditions, and the principles of child health promotion and protection. Teaching blends clinical case‑based learning and applied theory, with emphasis on translating evidence into practice.

• Core topics: child development and developmental surveillance; infant and child nutrition; recognition and management of common paediatric presentations; immunisation and infectious disease in childhood.
• Clinical practice: approaches to assessment, differential diagnosis and basic procedural skills relevant to community and hospital settings; child protection and safeguarding principles.
• Public health and policy: determinants of child health, screening programmes, family‑centred care and service delivery models.
• Research and evidence: applied research methods, critical appraisal of paediatric literature and quality improvement in child health services.
• Electives: options commonly allow further focus on areas such as adolescent health, developmental paediatrics, chronic disease management (e.g. asthma, diabetes), or community child health depending on staff availability.

The programme is typically offered as a 120‑point graduate diploma (one year full‑time equivalent), with flexible part‑time study available to accommodate practising clinicians.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally required to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification. Preference is given to applicants with prior health professional qualifications or clinical experience in child or family health, such as registered nurses, midwives, allied health practitioners and medical graduates.

• Relevant clinical experience in paediatrics, primary care or community child health strengthens an application.
• Evidence of academic ability at undergraduate level is normally expected; specific grade thresholds are set by the University and should be checked on the official programme page.
• Non‑health graduates with substantial relevant experience may be considered on a case‑by‑case basis.
• International applicants must meet the University’s English language requirements and meet visa/immigration conditions where applicable.

Career prospects

Graduates use the diploma to strengthen clinical practice in child and family health, to support career progression, or as preparation for further postgraduate study. Typical career pathways include:

• Clinical roles in paediatrics: enhanced practice for nurses, allied health professionals and general practitioners working with children.
• Community and primary care: child health nurse specialist, practice nurse with a child focus, school health services and community child development teams.
• Public health and policy: roles in health promotion, screening programmes, commissioning and child health policy at regional or national level.
• Child protection and social services: positions that require specialist knowledge of child development and safeguarding.
• Further study and research: pathway to honours or masters programmes in public health, paediatrics or related fields.

Why study at University of Otago

The University of Otago has a long tradition of medical and health education with strong links to regional hospitals and community health services, providing practical, clinically relevant teaching. The Faculty brings together clinicians and researchers with paediatric expertise, enabling students to learn from practising paediatricians, nurses and allied health professionals.

• Applied clinical focus with opportunities for workplace‑based learning and case‑based teaching.
• Interdisciplinary learning that reflects team‑based care in child health settings.
• Support for research skills and quality improvement projects that can be directly applied to practice.
• Flexible study options to accommodate working health professionals.