The National Certificate in Mental Health and Addiction Support is a full-time, one year programme which offers you stimulating studies. This qualification provides a pathway to a career in many aspects of mental health and addictions.

The National Certificate in Mental Health and Addiction Support is an initial qualification if you wish to enter
mental health or addiction support work assisting consumers/tangata whai ora to develop and implement
individual lifestyle or support plans. This programme is open to all people who fulfill the entry criteria. Fees are paid by the individual student.

Part-time options will be considered following discussion with the Programme Co-ordinator

Download programme information at the top (right) of this page for more information about the
programme, descriptions for each of the subjects covered, and fees and costs associated with this programme.

You are welcome to make an appointment to discuss your study options with our staff and to view our facilities.

There are two entry points per year:

• February
• July

33 weeks full-time: (Consists of one day per week on campus theory and two days per week experiential learning).  Part-time students may be accepted.  It is recommended that part-time students complete the programme over two years. All programme units will be offered during the period from February to November.

A personal interview may be part of the application process.

Applicants must meet one of the following criteria: 

Standard Entry

• People already employed in a mental health and addiction care setting will be eligible to apply and complete the programme while remaining in their place of work.
• People who are not employed in a mental health care and addiction care setting can also apply, but they will be required to gain experiential learning with a relevant agency with appropriate access to supervision. 

For admission into the programme, applicants must have: 

Under 20 years:

• Minimum of four (4) years secondary schooling 

20 years and over:

• Motivation and commitment 

Possible jobs and career opportunities exist within: 

• Mental health and addiction services
• Iwi health providers
• Residential services
• Home-based support providers
• Community/NGO (non-government organisation) sector
• Volunteer sector