OVERVIEW
The NZQF Level 5 Diploma in Mental Health Support is an NZQA-approved, work-integrated programme designed for individuals working or aspiring to work in the mental health field, who are seeking career advancement or professional growth. Delivered over 52 weeks (including 4 holiday weeks), the programme carries 120 credits and requires 1,200 learning hours. Teaching is delivered face-to-face in class and is complemented by practical learning through a 400-hour clinical work placement arranged by the institution. If students secure part-time work in healthcare (visa permitting), those hours may also count toward the placement requirement.
2026 Intakes
- 26 January
- 2 March
- 20 April
- 1 June
- 31 August
- 23 November
Duration
1 year in New Zealand
Tuition
$19,200NZD
Employment Pathways
· Team Leader or supervisor in aged residential care
· Team leader or supervisor in home/community care
· Team leader in Department of Corrections health facilities
· Team leader in mental health organisations
Requirements
- All international applicants must be at least 18 years of age on or before the first day of the semester in which the proposed programme of study is offered
- IELTS test result with an Academic score of 5.5 with no band score lower than 5 or PTE (Academic) score of 42 with no band score lower than 36 or the equivalent as per NZQA’s Table of Internationally Recognised English Language Proficiency Outcomes for International Students or provide evidence of meeting other requirements described in Rules 18.2 to 18.4 of the NZQF Programme Approval and Accreditation Rules 2018.
- All applicants must provide evidence of achievement at an equivalent level to a qualification at Level 4 or above on the NZQF.
- Healthcare sector qualifications / experience confirmed with academic transcripts or work placement documents.
- Physically able to do the job
- Willingness to work with the older person
- All applicants must attend an interview
- Evidence of work placement activity by providing references.
- Clean criminal check (an initial check is to be provided from country of last abode).
