Tertiary Foundation Certificate (TFC)

Mixed Studies

A one-year full-time (or variable part-time) programme equipping students with the academic skills and confidence required for undergraduate study, offering guaranteed pathways into a wide range of degrees at the University of Auckland.

$ENQUIRE

Interested in this course? Enquire now for Domestic & International pricing


This course starts anytime

(120 Credits)


In-person study

Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting

Available in 3 locations

It will take a total of 1 year


Core skills this course teaches


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Develop university-level academic skills

Build skills and confidence in core academic areas such as literacy and mathematics, necessary for undergraduate study.

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Meet University Entrance requirements

Achieve a nationally recognised qualification that meets the entry requirements for undergraduate programmes at the University of Auckland.

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Pathways to undergraduate degrees

Gain a guaranteed pathway to all direct-entry undergraduate degrees, depending on chosen subjects and grades.

What You're Signing Up For

The Tertiary Foundation Certificate (TFC) is a one-year programme that prepares students for undergraduate study at the University of Auckland. It provides core courses in literacy and mathematics and a range of electives in arts, business, education, and science. Graduates gain a nationally recognised qualification for university entrance and have access to support services, facilities, and clubs on campus. Successful completion can guarantee entry to direct-entry undergraduate degrees depending on subjects and grades. The programme strongly supports students from groups under-represented in tertiary education and is offered at multiple Auckland campuses.

Course Content

  • Core courses in Literacy (Academic Literacy I & II)
  • Core courses in Mathematics (Foundation Mathematics I & II)
  • Data Analytics
  • Foundation Biology I & II
  • Foundation Chemistry I & II
  • Foundation History
  • Foundation Sociology I & II
  • Introduction to Arts and Humanities
  • Environment and Society 2
  • General Education course (most students)
  • Electives across Arts, Business, Education, and Sciences

What you need to know first

Applicants should check official entry requirements on the University of Auckland website.

Most students will be required to take a General Education course.

Students should be aware of the University’s Academic English Language Requirement.

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What sort of industry will this job lead to

  • Education

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Future employment opportunities might be

  • Preparation for undergraduate study and entry into a wide range of university degree programmes. Career options depend on the undergraduate degree pathway chosen.