Program Overview
Bachelor of Health Science – BHlthSc
The Bachelor of Health Science (BHlthSc) at Massey University is a comprehensive qualification that prepares graduates to innovate and enhance the well-being of individuals, communities, and nations. This interdisciplinary approach promotes a thorough understanding of the biological and social foundations of contemporary health issues.
The Health Industry Needs You
There is a growing demand for professionals who can navigate and address personal, workplace, and community health challenges in today's complex, interconnected world. The BHlthSc will hone your communication and critical-thinking skills, equipping you with knowledge in research methods and the principles and practices of epidemiology.
Follow Your Interests
Massey's BHlthSc offers a comprehensive suite of health majors, allowing you to align your degree with your interests. In the final semester of your study, you have the option to gain practical experience by taking the elective course Work Integrated Learning in Health Sciences.
Further Study
Consider furthering your expertise and impact in health science with postgraduate opportunities such as:
- Postgraduate Diploma in Health Science
- Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health
- Master of Health Science
- Master of Public Health
A BHlthSc is a Good Fit if You:
- Want to improve the health and lives of the population
- Have a particular interest you want to explore
- Are keen to work in the growing health industry
Entry Requirements
Admission to Massey
All students must meet university entrance requirements to be admitted to the University.
Specific Requirements
There are no specific entry requirements for this qualification (most specialisations), outside of university admission regulations. Entry requirements differ among BHlthSc majors; if you want to change majors, you must submit a new admission application.
English Language Requirements
To study this qualification, you must meet Massey University's English language standards.
Prior Learning, Credit, and Exemptions
For information on prior learning, exemptions, and transfer of credit or other questions, review the Recognition of Prior Learning regulations or contact us.
Structure of the Bachelor of Health Science
If you study full-time, you'll take eight 15-credit courses each year. For some majors, you will need to take specific 100-level core courses from Schedule A to ensure you have the necessary pre-requisites for 200-level major compulsory courses.
Courses and Specialisations
Key Terms
- Courses: Each qualification has its own specific set of courses.
- Course code: Each course is numbered using 6 digits.
- Credits: Each course is worth a number of credits.
- Specialisations: Some qualifications let you choose what subject you'd like to specialise in.
Schedule A: Core Courses
Choose 210 credits from:
- Compulsory courses (165 credits)
- Compulsory course selection (30 credits)
- Major courses (120 credits)
- Electives from Schedule C (30 credits)
Ensure that overall, you have:
- Not more than 165 credits at 100 level
- At least 75 credits at 300 level
Schedule B: Specialisations
Completing a major is compulsory. A Bachelor of Health Science major consists of 120 credits of compulsory courses.
- Environmental Health
- Health Promotion
- Human Nutrition
- Integrated Human Health
- Mental Health and Addiction
- Occupational Health and Safety
- Psychology
Schedule C: Electives
Choose 30 credits from:
- Urban Environments
- Whakamahi: Introduction to Mental Health and Addiction Placement
- Alcohol, Other Drugs and Addiction
- Nau mai e noho: Engaging with Māori
- The Practice of Psychological Research
- Forensic Psychology
- Psychology of Women
- Conducting Psychological Research
- Work Psychology
- Community Development
- Sport and Physical Activity in the Social Context
- Work Integrated Learning in Health Sciences
Fees and Scholarships
2026 Tuition Fees
- Domestic students: $8,420
- International students: Not applicable
Tuition fees are estimates only. The exact fees charged will depend on which courses you select at the time of enrolment.
Student Loans (StudyLink) and Fees Free Scheme
You may be eligible for a student loan to help towards paying your fees. The New Zealand Government offers fees-free tertiary study for eligible domestic students.
Scholarship and Award Opportunities
- David Levene Foundation Bursaries
- He Oha Puiaki - Massey University Māori First Year Scholarship
- Massey University Undergraduate First Year Scholarship – School Leavers
- OneChoice Futures Grant
- Sumner Ferrymead Foundation Health Sciences Scholarship
Careers and Job Opportunities
The Bachelor of Health Science is a great qualification to find an exciting and rewarding career. Depending on your major, you could work in any of the following:
- Biosecurity
- Environmental health protection, consultancy, and auditing
- Food systems or nutrition policy analyst
- Health coach
utritionist - Health navigation and case management in rehabilitation and disability support
- Health promotion, community health, and policy work in communities, iwi, government, and non-government organisations
- Health research in universities, companies, non-profit organisations, and research institutes
- Injury prevention
- Mental health and addiction work
- Public health
- Public or community health nutrition advisor
- Quality assurance
- Secondary school teaching
- Workplace health and safety
- Policy advice and analysis
- Community development
- Whānau ora navigation
Accreditations
- CAPHIA Team Teaching Excellence Award 2023
- DAPAANZ - Drug and Alcohol Practitioners Association of Aotearoa New Zealand
- Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH)
- IUHPE Accreditation
- Environmental Health Officers Qualifications Regulations 1993
What Our Students Say
“When I returned to study, Massey's Bachelor of Health Science in Psychology ticked all my boxes; distance study, and subjects that provide a robust study pathway. My degree has given me the opportunity to continue my research and postgraduate journey.”
Tania Kahika-Foote
Te Whakatōhea, Te Whānau ā Apanui
Bachelor of Health Science (Psychology)
“My placement gave me some clinical experience, but my theoretical learning is what really prepared me to do well. Although I studied online, I enjoyed connecting with peers in my final year, as we supported one another through our placements and into the workforce.”
Ehlana Grigg
Case Manager, Te Whare Whakapiki Wairua
Bachelor of Health Science (Mental Health and Addiction)
“Study helped me get a foot in the door to determine what sort of career I’m looking for. My qualification in health science has given me the confidence to help communities address their own needs.”
Greg Mullany
Public Health Advisor, Te Whatu Ora Health New Zealand
Bachelor of Health Science
Plan Your Courses
View your course options and plan your study using our course planner.
Related Content
- Planning your study
- Application process overview
- Semester dates