New Zealand Diploma in Pregnancy, Childbirth and Early Parenting Education
COVID-19 vaccination information
You don’t need to supply evidence of your Covid-19 vaccination status to apply for this programme. However, most placement providers will require evidence from you that you are fully vaccinated before allowing you to complete a placement at their organisation. Placements are an integral part of this programme and you’ll need to complete these to be able to successfully achieve your qualification.
Gain the knowledge to educate and guide people through the transition to parenting.
This two-year, part-time programme equips you with skills and knowledge to facilitate high quality parent education.
Using blended learning principles it can be studied from anywhere in New Zealand. The average time commitment is 20 hours per week.
The diploma covers anatomy, physiology, psychology and sociology of the child-bearing years; pregnancy; labour and childbirth; infant feeding; early parenting; cultural safety; determinants of health; and the Treaty of Waitangi.
It also includes teaching theories, group dynamics, effective lesson planning, course design, and assessment and evaluation processes as you learn to evaluate your own teaching. Assessment methods vary, with no exams to sit.
Work-integrated learning features as you enjoy placements with a qualified antenatal educator. This ties theory to practice in preparation for you to facilitate full Transition to Parenting sessions.
On graduation, you will be able to plan, implement and evaluate effective transition to parenting programmes that are evidence-based and tailored to community needs.
*This programme is delivered using a mix of online and face-to-face learning. It includes one, three-day wānanga/intensive and two, two-day intensives in Christchurch over the 2 years.
NCEA Level 2
If you have undertaken examinations other than NCEA (e.g. International Baccalaureate, Cambridge Examination), Ara will assess your qualification for academic entry equivalency.
In addition you need to:
Submit the completed Application to Study form with the requested information. Applications are accepted throughout the academic year.
- Consent to Disclosure of Information. Successful applicants will be required to complete a New Zealand Police Consent to Disclosure of Information form.
- The form will be sent by Ara to the Police Licensing and Vetting Service, and returned in confidence to the Head of Department.
- Information on the NZ Police Vetting Service is available from the New Zealand Police website.
Still want to study but don't meet the Academic Requirements?
If you show that you have equivalent skills for tertiary study gained through study, work and/or life experience, you may be able to gain alternative entry.
What if English is not my first Language?
If English is not your first language, we want to make sure that you will be successful in your chosen programme of study.
- Please provide a result from a test or qualification on the acceptable alternatives English Proficiency Outcomes Chart.
- If you are a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent Resident, complete an Admission and Enrolment form and Ara will contact you regarding a free assessment.
- If you are not a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent resident, book an IELTS or other test through the Ara Examination Centre or in your home country.
- IELTS scores used must be taken from a single IELTS Test Report Form and are valid for two years from the date of the test.
- What if I have achieved NCEA Level 3 University Entrance?
- You do not need to provide additional evidence of English Language skills.
Overall IELTS 5.5 Academic
- 5.0 Listening
- 5.0 Reading
- 5.0 Writing
- 5.0 Speaking
A selection process will take place for this programme. This will be based on application information including a written statement (500 word) or a two minute video or audio file (such as mp3) outlining;
- your understanding of the role, your motivation and relevant experience
Funding assistance
If you face unexpected financial hardship during your studies, we have several funds that you can apply for. These are designed to enable you to continue your current course of study. We also have a wide range of scholarships and awards that can provide financial assistance.
Find out moreCareer opportunities
Currently there is a national shortage of facilitators of pregnancy, childbirth and early parenting education so excellent employment opportunities exist for graduates of this programme. Possible employers include health boards, Plunket, Parents Centre and iwi groups.
Study pathways
This programme provides an excellent foundation of knowledge and a pathway to further study in midwifery, social work and other health subjects.
New Zealand Diploma in Pregnancy, Childbirth and Early Parenting Education
Gain the knowledge to educate and guide people through the transition to parenting.
| Information | |
|---|---|
| Type | Diploma |
| Code | NZ2887 |
| Application close date | 20 December |
| May be available for Study Visa? | Yes |
| International application close date | Please enquire |
| Credits | 120 |
| Level | 5 |
| Additional Equipment/Fees | Advised on enrolment |
| Available Part time | Yes |
| May be eligible for Fees Free? | Yes |
| Reference | NZ2887-STRU |
With an internationally-recognised Ara qualification, the world is your oyster. Our graduates can be found working and making a difference across the globe…
MoreAdditional Entry Requirements
In addition you need to:
Submit the completed Application to Study form with the requested information. Applications are accepted throughout the academic year.
- Consent to Disclosure of Information. Successful applicants will be required to complete a New Zealand Police Consent to Disclosure of Information form.
- The form will be sent by Ara to the Police Licensing and Vetting Service, and returned in confidence to the Head of Department.
- Information on the NZ Police Vetting Service is available from the New Zealand Police website.
Credit Recognition
If you have prior relevant experience or previous related study credits, you may be eligible for credit recognition towards this qualification.
Find out moreDocuments
- Admission & Enrolment Form PDF, 300 KB
- International Application Form PDF, 240 KB
- Diploma in Pregnancy Additional Requirements PDF, 75 KB
- Referee report 1 PDF, 175 KB
- Referee report 2 PDF, 182 KB
Area of Interest
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