Programme details

Doctor of Health Sciences (DHSc)

The Doctor of Health Sciences (DHSc) program at UC offers a chance to explore a health-related field that you are deeply interested in.

Course description

The Doctor of Health Sciences (DHSc) curriculum presents an opportunity for you to explore a health domain that ignites your passion. This exploration may include assessing health innovations and initiatives aimed at alleviating health outcome disparities, generating evidence to support enhanced practices and service delivery, or researching the health requirements of various populations. Designed to elevate your expertise, the DHSc program focuses on evidence-based research and its practical application in your health practice, whether in clinical or non-clinical settings.

Moreover, the program prioritizes the cultivation of collaborative skills, facilitating stronger engagement with affected communities, organizations, iwi, and governmental bodies. The University of Canterbury’s affiliation with Te Papa Hauora | Health Precinct uniquely positions it to promote innovation and collaboration among students, researchers, and clinicians.

Immigration benefits

This course may qualify for the following visa rights:
In-study work rights
Partner visitor rights
Partner work rights
Post-study work rights

This course qualifies for 6 points if applying for residency under the Skilled Migrant Category.

Career Prospects

The qualification can bring many career benefits eg, specialist skills and enhanced knowledge, entry into specific occupations, higher starting salary/progression rates, research capability/achievement, and evidence of high academic attainment/self-discipline.

Entry requirements

To enroll in this program, you must possess either an honours or master’s degree from Aotearoa New Zealand, or hold qualifications of an equivalent level.

In certain circumstances, you may be granted permission to enroll without these qualifications if you can demonstrate adequate research or training experience.

Additionally, a minimum of five years of pertinent professional practice is required.

All students are required to obtain approval from Amo Rangahau | Dean of Postgraduate Research prior to enrollment in the degree.

If English is your additional language, you are also required to meet UC’s English language requirements. University recognises the following English Language tests and courses:

International English Language Testing System Academic (IELTS Academic) – including online and One Skill Retake
Test of English as a Foreign Language Internet-Based Test (TOEFL iBT) – including Home Edition and Paper Edition #
CCEL English for Academic Purposes Level 2 (EAP Level 2) – including online
Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE)
Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE)
Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE) – including online
New Zealand Certificate in English Language (NZCEL)
FluentIQ (*FluentIQ should be used where IELTS Indicator or TOEFL cannot be used)
LanguageCert
Trinity College London Integrated Skills in English (ISE)
Duolingo English Test (DET)