New Zealand Diploma in Applied Science (Level 5)
COVID-19 vaccination information
You don’t need to supply evidence of your Covid-19 vaccination status to apply for this programme. However, most placement providers will require evidence from you that you are fully vaccinated before allowing you to complete a placement at their organisation. Placements are an integral part of this programme and you’ll need to complete these to be able to successfully achieve your qualification.
Meet the needs of an ever-expanding commercial science sector with STEM skills that you'll use every day in the workplace.
This programme will equip you with skills required by the ever-expanding commercial science sector, which encompasses increasingly automated food production, manufacturing and environmental management businesses.
Course content is made up of a mix of practical skills that you'll use every day, and theory relating directly to the modern STEM (science, technology, engineering, maths) workplace. The course covers science, information literacy, quality management and essential soft skills such as teamwork, communication and ethics. It includes seven compulsory courses plus the opportunity to tailor your programme of study to your own interests with an elective in ICT, human nutrition or sports science.
You'll also learn about business imperatives and associated data interpretation and manipulation. The programme's IT component will take you well beyond the basics and into the fundamentals of manufacturing process monitoring and control.
Please note: continuation to the Level 6 New Zealand Diploma in Applied Science is highly recommended (employment outcomes for Level 6 graduates are on a par with degree graduates).
Available part-time up to 3 years.
Fees for 2023
NCEA Level 2, which must include 30 credits in science (including chemistry) and 10 Literacy credits and 10 Numeracy credits
OR New Zealand Certificate in Study and Career Preparation (Level 4) Ara Applied Science Pathway or equivalent
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?
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 English Proficiency Outcomes Chart.
- 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 5.5 Academic
- 5.0 Listening
- 5.0 Reading
- 5.0 Writing
- 5.0 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
Employment growth in high-tech manufacturing sectors such as dairy processing and biotechnology is forecast to increase substantially in the coming years. This qualification will give you this skills to work in environments that combine high production rates with expensive and complex equipment and which are subject to intensive quality monitoring, or in other science and technology sectors, including regulatory industries.
Study pathways
This national qualification leads to the New Zealand Diploma in Applied Science (Level 6) and can lead to a diploma or degree in a wide range of science-related disciplines. It also forms a basis for management courses (for example, through the New Zealand Institute of Management) and provides a solid foundation for further tertiary study in science or engineering.
Recommended school subjects
- Chemistry
- Biology
- Physical education
- Mathematics
- English-rich subjects
New Zealand Diploma in Applied Science (Level 5)
Meet the needs of an ever-expanding commercial science sector with STEM skills that you'll use every day in the workplace.
| Information | |
|---|---|
| Type | Diploma |
| Code | NZ2552 |
| Next Starts | July 2023 |
| May be available for Study Visa? | Yes |
| International application close date | 20 January for February start; 23 June for July start |
| Credits | 120 |
| Level | 5 |
| Additional Equipment/Fees | Advised on enrolment |
| Available Part time | Yes |
| May be eligible for Fees Free? | Yes |
| Reference | NZ2552-STRU |
Fees for 2023
With an internationally-recognised Ara qualification, the world is your oyster. Our graduates can be found working and making a difference across the globe…
MoreCredit 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, 300 KB
- International Application Form PDF, 240 KB
Area of Interest
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