Auckland University of Technology

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced theoretical study with practice-based learning and a substantial research or capstone project. Core topics typically include advanced health assessment and clinical decision-making, research methods and evidence-based practice, health systems and policy, quality improvement and safety, and leadership in health services. Depending on your pathway, you can also study specialised modules in areas such as advanced clinical practice, primary care, mental health, population health, health promotion, or clinical education.

• Advanced clinical reasoning and assessment techniques
• Research design, statistics and application of evidence to practice
• Health service improvement, governance and policy analysis
• Leadership, change management and interprofessional practice
• Practice-based project or thesis demonstrating application to a real-world health problem

Study is delivered through a mix of lectures, seminars, simulation and supervised practice, with options for full-time or part-time study and flexible combinations of coursework and a research or practice project.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally required to have an undergraduate degree in a health-related discipline or equivalent professional qualification, together with relevant clinical or professional experience. Registered health professionals (for example nurses, allied health practitioners or paramedics) may be admitted on the basis of their registration and workplace experience. Applicants without a directly related degree but with substantial relevant experience and evidence of academic readiness may be considered.

• Completed undergraduate qualification in a relevant discipline or equivalent professional qualification
• Relevant clinical or professional experience for practice-focused pathways
• Evidence of English language proficiency if your previous study was not in English (university-accepted test scores or equivalent)
• For some clinical or placement components, professional registration and employer support may be required

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of senior and specialised roles across health services. Typical career paths include advanced clinical practitioner roles, clinical leadership and management, health service improvement and quality roles, clinical education and training, health policy and planning, and applied health research. The degree also supports those aiming to progress to doctoral study or to lead practice-based research projects within healthcare organisations.

Why study at Auckland University of Technology

AUT offers an applied approach to health education with strong links to regional health providers, making it well suited for professionals seeking immediate workplace impact. The university has modern teaching facilities, including simulation labs and interprofessional learning environments, and teaching staff who are active clinicians and researchers. Flexible delivery modes and partnerships with health services enable workplace-based learning and opportunities to tailor the programme to clinical, leadership or research interests.