Programme highlights
Ready to launch your career in the world of technology? This programme is your direct pathway to a job-ready future. The certificate covers hardware and software fundamentals, programming fundamentals, user experience and professional practice.
This program goes beyond the basics, equipping you with cutting-edge information and communication technologies (ICT) and the core skills that today’s employers demand. You’ll get hands-on experience, blending technical expertise with crucial professional skills.
Whether you’re aiming to land your first role in IT or secure a strong foundation for further study, this certificate is designed to fast-track your success.
Entry requirements
Applicants must meet the following entry requirements:
- The New Zealand Certificate in Information Technology Essentials (Level 4), or equivalent.
English language requirement for international students
International students must meet the English language requirements as stipulated by NZQA. For the latest requirements, see the NZQA website.
Exceptions to entry
If you do not meet the academic entry requirements, the Head of School or delegate may still consider your application for entry.
Give yourself credit with Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
Did you know you can use the knowledge and experience you already have to your advantage?
Your previous work experience and on-the-job skills, volunteering, professional development, and other providers’ qualifications can be recognised as prior learning, matched against credits in our courses, and put towards your qualification – potentially saving you money and possibly helping you to complete your qualification faster Learn more.
Programme structure
This certificate provides a foundational introduction to information technology, focusing on hardware and software fundamentals, programming basics, and user experience and professional practice. Learners will develop practical skills in configuring and supporting IT systems, creating simple code solutions, and designing user-centred digital solutions. The programme emphasises problem-solving, teamwork, communication, and professional practice. Learners will also develop ethical and workplace-ready skills to support entry-level roles or further study in IT.
You will need to complete the below three courses (60 credits):
Do you want to study a single course, without enrolling into the full programme?
Courses within some of our programmes may be offered as an individual Certificate of Proficiency (COP). Programme entry requirements and course fees apply. For more information, please speak to our friendly Ask Me! team.
Further training or study
This qualification provides the common core for all of the pathways in the professional IT suite of New Zealand qualifications and may be recognised for credit towards these. These include:
- New Zealand Diploma in Information Technology Technical Support (Level 5) [Ref: NZ2596]
- New Zealand Diploma in Information Systems (Level 5) [Ref: NZ2597]
- New Zealand Diploma in Web Development and Design (Level 5) [Ref: NZ2598]
- New Zealand Diploma in Software Development (Level 6) [Ref: NZ2604]
Further education pathways include higher-level IT-related qualifications as well as industry certifications.
Career opportunities
Graduates of this certificate will have the skills and knowledge to work in the IT industry as an emerging professional in a range of entry-level roles, and IT-related retail roles. The scope of the qualification outcomes reflects the requirements for roles providing first-line customer support.
For potential salaries visit?careers.govt.nz.
