Bachelor of Applied Management (Operations and Product Management)
Operations and product management is about how organisations design, make or deliver products and services so they meet customer needs, on time and to a high standard.
Tell me about this area
Professionals in this space plan workflows, manage resources, track performance and improve how work gets done. They balance cost, quality, speed and sustainability, working closely with teams like marketing, finance and suppliers. This field is particularly important in manufacturing and in services such as healthcare, education and hospitality. The goal is simple: create better outcomes for customers and the organisation.
Would it suit me?
This area could suit you if you like solving practical problems and improving how things work. You might enjoy working with data, spotting patterns and making clear recommendations. It helps to be organised, comfortable juggling priorities and keen to work with different people. If you care about quality, customer value and real-world results, you’ll fit in well.
What will I learn?
- Product lifecycle management
- Process design and improvement
- Quality management and assurance
- Capacity and resource planning
- Performance measurement and reporting
- Supply chain and logistics fundamentals
- Sustainability and responsible operations
- Data and analytics for decision-making
How will I learn?
- Problem-based projects using real scenarios
- Industry case studies and applied assessments
- Collaborative, team-based learning activities
- Work integrated learning and applied projects
- Guest speakers and professional networking
- Using industry data, reports and research tools
Fees for 2026
University Entrance as specified by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA)
Or New Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment Pathways (Level 4) Open Pathway
Or a relevant qualification at Level 4 or above listed on the New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework.
If you have undertaken examinations other than NCEA (e.g. International Baccalaureate, Cambridge Examination), Ara will assess your qualification for academic entry equivalency.
Still want to study but don't meet the Academic Requirements?
International applicants and applicants under 20 years old at the start of the semester in which their study will commence, who do not meet the standard admission requirements stated above may apply for discretionary admission.
- To apply for discretionary admission you need to demonstrate readiness for study at the level of this programme.
Domestic Applicants over 20 years old at the start of the semester in which their study will commence, who do not meet the standard admission requirements stated above may apply for special admission.
- To apply for special admission you need to demonstrate readiness for study at the level of this programme.
If you show that you have equivalent skills for tertiary study gained through study, work and/or life experience, you may be able to gain alternative entry.
Note: The number of courses you have to complete for this qualification may be reduced where you have relevant credits from previous study, or evidence of similar learning or experience in the workplace.
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.
- 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.
- You do not need to provide additional evidence of English Language skills.
Overall IELTS 6.0 Academic
- 5.5 Listening
- 5.5 Reading
- 5.5 Writing
- 5.5 Speaking
Applicants who meet the entry requirements will be accepted into the programme in the order that completed applications are received.
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
| Entry level | Intermediate | Advanced |
|---|---|---|
| Operations coordinator | Operations supervisor | Operations manager |
| Production scheduler | Process improvement specialist | Product manager |
| Supply chain assistant | Quality coordinator | Senior quality engineer |
| Logistics coordinator | Supply chain planner | Continuous improvement lead |
| Quality assistant | Product coordinator | Supply chain manager |
| Junior product analyst | Logistics manager | Operations consultant |
NB: Advanced roles may require experience and/or further study.
Study pathways
Ara offers a range of graduate diplomas in a variety of business specialisations for further study,as well as pathways to a Postgraduate or Master qualification.
Bachelor of Applied Management (Operations and Product Management)
Operations and product management is about how organisations design, make or deliver products and services so they meet customer needs, on time and to a high standard.
| Information | |
|---|---|
| Type | Degree |
| Code | CH3988 |
| Next starts | July 2026 |
| May be available for Study Visa? | Yes |
| Credits | 360 |
| Level | 7 |
| May be eligible for Studylink? | Yes |
| Available Part time | Yes |
| Reference | CH3988-OPMT |