New Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment (Level 4) Open Pathway
Mixed Studies
A course by
Ara Institute of Canterbury
Gain the academic and employment skills required to progress into a range of diplomas and degrees through this six-month, NZQA Level 4 certificate programme at Ara.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Madras Street, Christchurch
It will take a total of 19 weeks
Core skills this course teaches
Develop academic and employment skills
Build core academic abilities (literacy, numeracy, scientific literacy) and employment-related competencies required for further study or work.
Preparation for higher study
Gain the necessary foundation to successfully enter a wide range of diploma and bachelor degree programmes.
Personal and professional development
Enhance critical thinking, problem-solving, self-management, and interpersonal skills for academic and career success.
What You're Signing Up For
This six-month programme helps students develop foundation-level academic, technical, and employment skills to prepare for higher study or employment. The certificate includes a variety of core and elective subjects, such as literacy, numeracy, digital skills, science, and leadership, and is designed as a stepping stone to further tertiary study (e.g., architecture, broadcasting, business, social work, sustainability). The open pathway enables flexible progression into diverse fields.
Course Content
- Adventure Leadership
- Kaitiakitanga and Environmental Education
- Developing Rangatiratanga
- Mastering Calculations
- Cell Biology and Chemistry
- Human Body and Microbial Science
- Literacy Skills for Study and Employment
- Technical Skills
- Creative Digital Skills
- Contemporary Issues in Health and Wellbeing
- Te Ao Hauora Māori
- Nutrition and Lifestyle
What you need to know first
40 credits NCEA Level 2, including 10 Level 1 Literacy credits and 10 Level 1 Mathematics credits (with specific numeracy/algebra requirements for certain pathways)
OR New Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment (Level 3)
OR qualification assessed as equivalent (eg. International Baccalaureate, Cambridge Examination)
Alternative entry possible based on equivalent skills through study, work, or life experience
If English is not your first language: IELTS 5.5 Academic (with specified band minimums), or an equivalent English test
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Education
Foundation Skills
Multiple - varies with elective pathways
Future employment opportunities might be
Entry into employment roles requiring foundational academic and workplace skills
Preparation for advanced study leading to professional careers in fields such as business, health, architecture, social work, broadcasting, and sustainability