Postgraduate Certificate in Professional Supervision
Gain the expertise needed to supervise others effectively in professional contexts.
Professional supervision is a dedicated space for thoughtful reflection and growth. It supports the wellbeing of those we work with and for, by helping colleagues to strengthen their skills, deepen their professional practice and care for their own wellbeing.
This flexible, part-time programme is ideal professional development for anyone with a desire to offer professional supervision to those working in the community, health and wellbeing, education, social and legal sectors.
The programme takes a decolonising approach to supervision by embedding Māori knowledge and values. It’s informed by the concept of ‘kaitiakitanga’, a cultural reframing of professional supervision and encourages supervision practices that are culturally responsive, ethical and empowering.
You’ll join a diverse learning community to explore what effective supervision looks like in real-world settings. You’ll build your own supervision style through collaboration, reflective practice and hands-on learning. The programme includes online learning and in-person wānanga (learning forums), with opportunities to practice supervision in both simulated and real-life contexts.
The programme is made up of two 30-credit courses studied one after the other. In the first course (Te Tūranga), you’ll explore the knowledge and skills that shape supervision grounded in kaitiakitanga. In the second (Whakaharatau), you’ll apply what you’ve learned in your own practice.
To enrol, you must be working in a supervisory role, and/or have access to colleagues with whom you can practice supervision.
Part-time up to three years
Fees for 2026
A Bachelor's Degree or Graduate Certificate or Graduate Diploma.
In addition you need to:
Practice in the role of professional supervisor and/or have access to appropriate hoamahi (colleagues) with whom to arrange this practice experience
- Have two years’ work experience relevant to professional supervision
If you do not hold a Bachelor’s degree or Graduate Certificate or Graduate diploma you may:
- Provide evidence of having relevant skills and knowledge acquired through a minimum of 5 years of appropriate work or professional experience within the community, health and wellbeing, education, social, or legal sectors.
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
- 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 6.5 Academic
- 6.0 Listening
- 6.0 Reading
- 6.0 Writing
- 6.0 Speaking
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
As a graduate of the programme you can become and independent professional supervisor in private practice, a senior practitioner in professional multi- or interdisciplinary settings, or a people leader facilitating kaitiakitanga-informed professional supervision.
Study pathways
As a graduate of this programme, you can seek entry into further, higher-level postgraduate study.
Postgraduate Certificate in Professional Supervision
Gain the expertise needed to supervise others effectively in professional contexts.
| Information | |
|---|---|
| Type | Postgraduate |
| Code | CH4066 |
| Next Starts | February 2026 |
| May be available for Study Visa? | Yes |
| International application close date | Received all year |
| Credits | 60 |
| Level | 8 |
| Additional Equipment/Fees | Advised on enrolment |
| May be eligible for Studylink? | Yes |
| Available Part time | Yes |
| Reference | CH4066-PROS |
Fees for 2026
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:
Practice in the role of professional supervisor and/or have access to appropriate hoamahi (colleagues) with whom to arrange this practice experience
- Have two years’ work experience relevant to professional supervision
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, 431 KB
- International Application Form PDF, 358 KB
- Additional Requirements Form PDF, 90 KB
Area of Interest
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