New Zealand Diploma in Wellness and Relaxation Massage (Level 5)
This qualification gives you an advanced understanding of anatomy and physiology. You’ll learn clinical techniques and theory, and have the opportunity to apply what you learn in our massage clinic, with real clients.
Domestic
About the programme
Develop the skills and understanding needed to provide massage and support clients to improve their wellness.
Learn about anatomy and physiology, relaxation and therapeutic massage, stress management and wellness promotion methods. Gain hands-on experience in our massage clinic as you put your skills into practice with real clients.
Our massage programme is highly regarded within the South Island massage industry and we enjoy an excellent relationship with Massage New Zealand (MNZ). MNZ is the only massage therapy-specific membership body in New Zealand and you’ll be able to apply for registration with MNZ when you successfully complete this programme.
Graduates may operate their own massage therapy business, or may find employment within the spa industry. Alternatively, you can progress into the second year of our Bachelor of Applied Science where you can further your studies in massage and health, expand your skill set into rehabilitation (remedial) massage and increase your employment options.
International
About the programme
Develop the skills and understanding needed to provide massage and support clients to improve their wellness.
Learn about anatomy and physiology, relaxation and therapeutic massage, stress management and wellness promotion methods. Gain hands-on experience in our massage clinic as you put your skills into practice with real clients.
Our massage programme is highly regarded within the South Island massage industry and we enjoy an excellent relationship with Massage New Zealand (MNZ). MNZ is the only massage therapy-specific membership body in New Zealand and you’ll be able to apply for registration with MNZ when you successfully complete this programme.
Graduates may operate their own massage therapy business, or may find employment within the spa industry. Alternatively, you can progress into the second year of our Bachelor of Applied Science where you can further your studies in massage and health, expand your skill set into rehabilitation (remedial) massage and increase your employment options.
What You Study
Topics
- Anatomy, physiology, models of health and wellness
- Relaxation Massage
- Therapeutic Massage
- Wellness promotion
- Stress management
- Professional ethics and an introduction to business management
Entry
Entry requirements
- NCEA Level 2 (or equivalent).
- For applicants aged 20 years or over, there are no minimum academic requirements.
- For those under 20 who do not meet the academic entry requirements, entry may be granted where evidence is supplied of ability to succeed on the programme.
- International students will be individually assessed to ensure you are ready for this study.
- If English is not your first language, you must provide:
- New Zealand University Entrance OR
- Overall Academic IELTS 5.5 with no individual band score lower than 5.0 (achieved in one test completed in the last two years), OR
- Acceptable alternative evidence of the required IELTS (see here for NZQA proficiency table and here for list of recognised proficiency tests).
If you need to improve your English Language skills, we offer a wide range of English programmes.
Other requirements
- Applications from mature students (over 20) are welcome.
- For health and safety reasons, you must declare any health conditions and hold a current first aid certificate (or be prepared to work towards one during your programme of study).
Selection process
This programme is subject to maximum numbers. If the number of applicants exceeds the number of places, a ranking criteria will apply. This will be based on academic achievement and you may be asked to write 200 words on why you wish to study this programme.
Fees
Domestic fees
International fees
Fees Free
If you’re a domestic student and this is your first time doing tertiary study in New Zealand (over 60 credits at Level 3 or higher), you may be able to get free tuition fees for this programme.
All the details and criteria are on the Fees Free website and you can check whether you’re going to be able to access funding by entering your National Student Number.
If you can access it, we’ll organise your fees with the Tertiary Education Commission when you’re enrolled to study with us. This funding doesn’t include additional costs or living costs.
Additional costs
- Course-related materials such as massage tables, equipment, textbooks and a uniform will come to a maximum cost of $1,000 per year
- You also require your own laptop/tablet that are able to bring with you to class
Student Services Fee
For most students, your tuition fee shown above includes a Student Services Fee – also known as the Student Levy. This compulsory fee covers your access to the student services we offer. This cost is tailored depending on how you're studying.
Tuition fees
The tuition fees shown above are approximate only. There may be a slight fee increase per year once Tertiary Education Commission (TEC) rules and guidelines are applied. These fees also don’t include additional costs or living costs.
Domestic full-time students can apply for a student loan through Studylink. Some support may be available for domestic part-time students. Apply at the same time as you apply for your course (you can withdraw your application anytime).
Application
A change for 2023 enrolments
When you apply to study with Otago Polytechnic in 2023, you will be enrolled with Te Pūkenga, the new national network of vocational and applied education in Aotearoa New Zealand. You will learn in the same way, in the same place, and with the same people, and you will graduate with a Te Pūkenga qualification.
Disclaimer
While every effort is made to ensure that this sheet is accurate, Otago Polytechnic reserves the right to amend, alter or withdraw any of the contained information. The fees shown in this document are indicative only. Both domestic and international fees are subject to change and are dependent on the development and implementation of Government policies. Please note that additional fees may from time to time be required for external examination, NZQA fees and/or additional material fees.
