Certificate of Achievement in Introducing Health Promotion

Join a supportive learning experience that brings people together to explore what really shapes health and wellbeing in Aotearoa. 

In this 12-week part-time course, you’ll gain new perspectives, build practical skills, and learn how to turn your passion for helping others into meaningful action through health promotion. 

The Certificate of Achievement in Introducing Health Promotion (CoA) is a 12-week part-time course, jointly offered by Manukau Institute of Technology (MIT) and the Health Promotion Forum of New Zealand (HPF). 

This course is your introduction to the principles, concepts, and real-world practice of health promotion in Aotearoa New Zealand. Over 12 weeks, you’ll explore what shapes health in our communities, gain practical skills, and build your confidence to take the next step in your health promotion journey. This course will enable you to understand the role and importance of health promotion and the broader concept of health within a community and national setting.

About the course

(See the link to view and download the full information guide below in the Downloads section) 

This fun and interactive course connects theory with your own experiences, knowledge, skills and community context. 

You’ll learn alongside others who are passionate about improving wellbeing, and together you’ll explore how values, culture, and policy intersect in the health promotion space. 

Course structure: 

• 12 weeks part-time study (approx. 100 hours total) 

• Includes two four-day on course blocks (held online in weeks 4 and 8) 

• Combination of guided learning, team projects, and self-directed study 

The course aligns with Ngā Kaiakatanga Hauora mō Aotearoa – Health Promotion Competencies for Aotearoa New Zealand, providing a strong foundation for further study or work in health promotion and community wellbeing. 

Who This Course Is For 

This 12-week introductory course is designed for anyone who wants to build a strong foundation in health promotion - whether you’re new to the field or looking to strengthen your understanding of community health and wellbeing. 

It’s ideal for: 

• Community or social service workers wanting to integrate health promotion into their work. 

• Health sector staff or volunteers seeking a formal introduction to key health promotion concepts. 

• Educators and youth workers interested in supporting wellbeing within schools or community programmes. 

• Individuals exploring a new career path in public health or community development. 

No previous health qualification is required - just a passion for improving the wellbeing of people and communities in Aotearoa New Zealand. 

Course content 

You’ll cover key topics such as: 

• What is health promotion? 
• Determinants of health 
• Applying Te Tiriti o Waitangi to health promotion 
• The Ottawa Charter and global health frameworks 
• Key health promotion strategies and skills 
• Values and ethics in practice 
• Learning and study skills 
• Team presentations and a written assignment 

Learning outcomes

By the end of this course, you will be able to: 

• Demonstrate the skills required for effective learning and introductory health promotion practice 

• Define health promotion and explain the values and ethics that underpin it 

• Identify and discuss key health promotion documents and frameworks relevant to Aotearoa New Zealand 

• Apply a range of health promotion strategies and tools in community and workplace contexts 

Entry Requirements

Students in paid employment must provide written endorsement from their employer to attend. 

ESOL students require written and oral English proficiency at IELTS 6.0 (or equivalent). 

Method of Study

This course is completely online. 12 weeks of part-time study with two live ‘on course’ four-day blocks, supported by self-directed online learning components. 

Qualification

Graduates will receive the MIT Certificate of Achievement in Introducing Health Promotion 

• Level: 4 

• Credits: 10 MIT credits 

Duration

• 2 weeks of preparation 

• 2 weeks of on-course study (live online class blocks) 

• 8 weeks of self-directed learning 

• Total: 12 weeks / approx. 100 hours of learning 

How to Enrol

1. Complete the Health Promotion Forum (HPF) online registration form and application form. 
2. Provide verified ID and submit all documents at least three weeks before the course starts. 
3. On day one, you’ll complete your Manukau Institute of Technology (MIT) registration form to finalise your enrolment. 

Please submit all of your enrolment documentation to hpf@hauora.co.nz. 

Further Information

If you have any questions or would like to learn more about the CoA, check out our Frequently Asked Questions below or please feel free to reach out to us.

You can send your expression of interest for the next intake to hpf@hauora.co.nz.

Downloads

CoA Intro to Health Promotion L4 - Info Guide 

APPLICATION FORM 

We have a limited number of scholarships to offer members of HPF!

To apply for a Scholarship contact us by email at hpf@hauora.co.nz or phone 09 300 3071.

Conditions apply.

Student Testimonials

FEEDBACK FROM STUDENTS' COURSE EVALUATIONS FROM INTAKE TWO & INTAKE THREE, 2024:

• "This course has provided me with all the necessary information I needed to know about Health Promotion and what I am expected to do within my role. Lots of valuable lessons and understandings."
• "I’ve been privileged to have done some Te Tiriti training, this just cemented some of my knowledge."
• "The Ottawa Charter was new to me but so far inspiring. I liked looking and listening into the action strands."
• "… where I have picked up new information is in the actual understanding of Health Promotion, and how it differs from Health Education. I’m keen to delve into that deeper."

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How is the course delivered? 
This course is based completely online. This is a part-time 12-week course that combines two live class block weeks (four days each) with self-directed study. It’s designed to fit around your work and other commitments. 

Do I need to be working in the health sector to enrol? 
No. Many students come from community, education, or social service backgrounds, or are simply interested in understanding how to promote health and wellbeing. 

What kind of assessments will I complete? 
You’ll take part in group discussions and a team presentation, as well as complete one written individual assignment. Weekly quizzes help test your knowledge throughout the course (these don't count towards your grade). The tutor provides guidance and support throughout. 

Is there online learning support? 
Yes. Between block weeks, students receive guided resources, readings, and tutor contact to support their independent study. 

Will I get a qualification at the end? 
Yes. On successful completion, you’ll receive the MIT Certificate of Achievement in Introducing Health Promotion (Level 4, 10 credits) - jointly awarded by MIT and HPF. 

How do I apply? 
Complete the HPF online registration form and application, provide verified ID, and submit all documents three weeks before the course start date. Submit your documents to hpf@hauora.co.nz. You’ll finalise your MIT enrolment on day one of the course. 

Who can verify my ID?  
A Justice of the Peace (JP), Minister, lawyer or equivalent can verify your ID.  

There are JP service desks available several times per week in some locations – check with your local library to see whether these services are available to you.  

You can also search for a JP near you on this website by searching for your suburb. JP services are free.   

For more examples of people authorised to verify your ID, please see our information sheet here.