Programme Outline
It is an initial qualification if you wish to enter mental health or addiction support work, assisting consumers/tāngata whai ora to develop and implement individual lifestyle or support plans. This programme is open to all who fulfil the entry criteria.
You are welcome to make an appointment to discuss your study options with our staff and to view our facilities.
In the diverse mental health and addiction environment, support workers provide a variety of services to clients within a range of health and community settings.
Your future career and study opportunities
Possible job and career opportunities exist within:
- Community-based support services
- Day programmes
- Iwi health providers
- Whānau family support
- Mental health and addiction support services
- Peer support
- Residential support services
- Volunteer sector
Further your study with the NZ Diploma in Health and Wellbeing (Applied Practice) (Level 5) or the Bachelor of Social Work.
Entry Requirements
Academic requirements
- Meet the NCEA Level 1 Literacy and Numeracy requirements, or provide evidence of achievement at an equivalent level; or
- Attend an information session with a member of the academic staff and successful completion of the alternative academic entry test.
Alternative entry assessment
An alternative entry assessment will measure applicants’ literacy and numeracy ability to ensure that it is of a level to cope with the demands of the programme.
Professional requirements
Applicants may be required to:
- Sign a declaration and a request for personal information held by the NZ Police.*
* If you are employed by a health industry provider you are not required to undergo a Police check.
This request is consistent with industry expectations and the type of work undertaken whilst on the programme or as a graduate of the programme.
If the declaration identifies any issue that may impact your ability to complete the programme, you can discuss this with the Programme Coordinator at an information session. EIT | Te Pūkenga reserves the right to decline entry to the programme should an applicant’s Police record be such that they would be considered unsuitable for the type of work undertaken whilst on this programme or by graduates of this programme. The guidelines on which this decision is based are the relevant professional association or industry requirements.
Other requirements
Some workplaces/providers may still require workers to be vaccinated due to their responsibilities under health and safety legislation. Please take this into consideration for practical work experience. For more information contact the Programme Administrator, Raewyn Ashby, on 06 830 1860.
Information session
An information session is compulsory for those who do not meet the entry criteria and it is recommended for those who do meet the entry criteria. It will allow parties to exchange information about what the programme provides for learners and requirements of learners. Included will be discussion of possible career paths for the applicant, motivation and physical and emotional requirements, and applicant’s abilities, background, experiences and interests. Attendance of whānau members and/or other support people is encouraged.
Entry with Credit
You may already have some knowledge or skills that can be recognized as part of your intended study. This may take a number of different forms including previous study, workplace training, life experiences or voluntary work. If you think you may qualify you are welcome to apply for Cross Credit (CC) or Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).
- CC is based on the equivalency of courses or qualifications. You would apply for CC if you have passed a very similar course at the same level.
- RPL is based on the assessment of your current knowledge and skills. You would apply for RPL if you had gained the relevant knowledge and skills through life experiences and informal learning situations.
You will be asked to provide details of anything that you would like considered as credit toward your intended programme of study, as part of your application.
For further information and enquiries about CC and RPL please contact the Programme Administrator, Raewyn Ashby, on 06 830 1860.
How to Enrol
Step 1 – Check entry requirements
Make sure you have read and understood the entry requirements for your situation and background.
Entry requirements can be different for domestic and international students.
Step 2 – Confirm campus and check key dates
The next intake date(s) for your chosen course and campus are listed in the Course Details panel on this page.
Dates can vary between campuses, so make sure you have selected the campus you wish to study at.
Step 3 – Confirm fees and costs
Visit https://www.eit.ac.nz/fees/ to see the fees for this programme.
Step 4 – Complete any supporting forms
If your course requires any supporting forms, they will be listed below under ‘Supporting Documentation’
Step 5 – Submit your application
You’ll need an up-to-date email address to start your online application.
You’ll also need to know what you want to study – your degree or programme and majors and/or minors, and the courses you plan to take.
You may be asked to submit supporting documentation with your application.
