Bachelor of Health Science gains international accreditation

Two majors within Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa Massey University’s Bachelor of Health Science have achieved a groundbreaking milestone. The Mental Health Promotion Pathway in the Bachelor of Health Science (Mental Health and Addiction) and the Bachelor of Health Science (Health Promotion) have become the first programmes in Aotearoa New Zealand to gain accreditation from the International Union of Health Promotion and Education (IUHPE).

IUHPE is a global professional organisation dedicated to advancing public health through education, community action and healthy public policy development. Their accreditation system promotes quality assurance and competence in health promotion practice, education and training globally. Both qualifications met these rigorous international standards with flying colours, and this recognition positions Massey at the forefront of health promotion education in Aotearoa.

Dr Angelique Reweti, who leads the Health Promotion major, says the accreditation represents a significant step forward for students.

“Our graduates will now have the opportunity to become Registered Health Promotion Practitioners with IUHPE, opening doors to both national and international career opportunities.”

The Mental Health and Addiction major has now secured dual accreditation, with its Addiction Practitioner Pathway maintaining accreditation from the Drug and Alcohol Practitioners Associations (DAPAANZ). At the same time, the Mental Health Promotion Pathway now holds IUHPE accreditation.

Co-lead of the Mental Health and Addiction major Associate Professor Chrissy Severinsen says this is a significant achievement.

“This international recognition validates our commitment to excellence in health promotion education. We’re contributing to the global movement of the professionalisation of the public health workforce.

The other co-lead of the Mental Health and Addiction major, Associate Professor Andy Towers says, “Our students will now graduate with internationally recognised credentials. This accreditation ensures our graduates meet global competency standards.”

The IUHPE accreditation system is built on the foundational principles established in the 1985 Ottawa Charter and subsequent World Health Organisation declarations on health promotion. The framework ensures accredited programmes maintain the highest standards in health promotion education and practice.

The accreditation brings significant advantages for both students and the university. Graduates will benefit from international recognition of their qualifications and eligibility for IUHPE practitioner registration upon completing their studies. They will also have access to structured continuing professional development pathways and enhanced employment opportunities both within Aotearoa and internationally.

The accreditation enhances Massey’s credibility through alignment with international standards and creates valuable opportunities to network with other accredited institutions worldwide. It establishes the university’s leadership position in health promotion education within Aotearoa.