Health Management University of Otago

Overview

The Health Management programme at the University of Otago provides a comprehensive academic framework for those seeking to lead within the healthcare sector. This interdisciplinary course integrates the essential principles of public health with robust business administration strategies to address modern industry challenges.

Students can choose between a Postgraduate Diploma or a Master of Health Sciences, depending on their professional goals and previous academic background. The curriculum is designed to benefit both clinical health professionals and managers who are looking to transition into specialised administrative roles within the healthcare environment.

The University of Otago is recognised globally for its research excellence and strong academic reputation.

Why Health Management at the University of Otago?

The University of Otago maintains a global reputation for research excellence, particularly within the Division of Health Sciences and the Otago Business School. This programme leverages the strengths of both divisions to provide a unique educational experience that is both academically rigorous and practically relevant.

Students benefit from the university's extensive network of health professionals and researchers across its campuses in Dunedin, Christchurch, and Wellington. The teaching features a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped to manage complex health systems and policy decisions.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: NZD 51975 per year
• National fee: NZD 13158 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is structured to provide a balance between health-specific knowledge and general management skills. Modules may include:

• Hauora Māori
• Society, Health and Health Promotion
• Public Policy and Health Systems
• Economics of Health Policy Decision Making
• Economic Evaluation
• International Health Systems
• Healthy Public Policy
• Dissertation

In addition to these core areas, students complete papers from the Diploma in Business Administration to strengthen their organisational and leadership capabilities. The Master of Health Sciences option also includes a significant research component, allowing for a thesis or a smaller dissertation depending on the chosen pathway.

Careers with Health Management

Graduates of this programme are prepared for a wide range of leadership and administrative roles within the global health sector. The combination of public health insights and business acumen makes alumni highly sought after by various organisations, including government agencies, hospitals, and private healthcare providers.

Common career paths include health service management, policy analysis, and health economics. The skills acquired during the programme allow professionals to effectively navigate the complexities of health system delivery, financial planning, and strategic decision-making in both national and international contexts.