1. Admission to the programme
If you wish to apply for the following programmes you need to meet the criteria below and enrol with the University of Otago directly: otago.ac.nz or 0800 808 098.
- Admission to the programme shall be subject to the approval of the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Health Sciences) on the advice of the Board of the Faculty of Medicine, which must be satisfied that the applicant has the ability and experience to proceed to the programme.
- Every applicant for the DCH shall have been admitted to the degrees of Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery of a university in New Zealand or hold an equivalent medical qualification approved by the Board of the Faculty of Medicine.
- Every applicant for the DCH shall be registered for medical practice in New Zealand.
2. Structure of the programme
- The programme of study for the diploma shall consist of two papers, CHHE 701 (see note below) and CHHE 702, which are normally to be taken in consecutive semesters.
- In order to complete the requirements for CHHE 702, the candidate will normally hold a position in general paediatrics for a minimum of 26 weeks, whilst enrolled in the course, in a hospital approved for this purpose. The majority of this attachment will be in a general paediatric ward, although shorter periods in specialty units such as paediatric surgery, paediatric emergency medicine, or neonatal intensive care may be allowed at the discretion of the convenor. Such periods will in total not exceed the period in general paediatrics.
3. Duration of the programme
The programme requirements shall normally be completed within two years of admission to the programme.
4. Examinations
Candidates shall be assessed by written and clinical examinations.
5. Level of award of the Diploma
The diploma may be awarded with distinction or with credit.
6. Variations
The Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Health Sciences) may in exceptional circumstances approve a course of study which does not comply with these regulations.
Paper CHHE 701 is taught through the Distance Learning Programme. As well as being a compulsory paper for DCH, it may be taken by other approved health professionals; it is not restricted to medical graduates.