Study and Career Preparation - Social Work Pathway, Level 4
Gain the academic skills required for higher-level study in social work.
Through a mix of tutorials, group projects, quizzes and individual work, this programme will equip you with the academic skills required for higher-level study in social work – specifically the Bachelor of Social Work. You’ll learn how to write academic texts and do presentations, and you will have the opportunity to develop the intra- and inter-personal skills needed to support success in tertiary study and life. Subject-specific topics covered include Te Reo Māori, effective communication and understanding the contemporary issues that influence health and social service provision.
Successful completion of this qualification does not guarantee entry to the pathway’s destination programme of study. Entry requirements for these programmes still apply and selection for some destination programmes is highly competitive.
Please note: In order to ensure you have the best chance of success in our maths courses, we require that you demonstrate a minimum level of maths knowledge before enrolling. This can be done using previous academic records (e.g. NCEA results) or through our entry testing process. The following Achievement Standards will not count towards Mathematics credits in this pathway: 91035, 91036, 91037, and 91038.
Fees for 2024
Fees for 2025
40 credits NCEA Level 2, including 10 Level 1 Literacy credits and 10 Level 1 Mathematic credits (with a strength in Algebra for the Engineering Pathway and Numeracy for other pathways)
- Please note that statistics and probability do not count towards this mathematics credits requirement.
OR New Zealand Certificate in Study and Career Preparation (Level 3)
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.
- While entry to this programme requires an IELTS level of 5.5 Academic, entry to some of the Ara degrees requires a score of 6.5 or 7.0 Academic.
Overall IELTS 5.5 Academic
- 5.5 Listening
- 5.0 Reading
- 5.5 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
This programme is designed as a stepping to stone to higher level study in social work-related fields, which in turn can lead to rewarding careers in social work.
Study pathways
As a certificate graduate you can progress your studies at Ara with the Bachelor of Social Work.
New Zealand Certificate in Study and Career Preparation (Level 4) (Bachelor of Social Work Pathway)
Gain the academic skills required for higher-level study in social work.
| Information | |
|---|---|
| Type | Certificate |
| Code | NZ2860 |
| Next Starts | February 2025 |
| May be available for Study Visa? | Yes |
| Credits | 60 |
| Level | 4 |
| Available Part time | Yes |
| May be eligible for Fees Free? | Yes |
| Reference | NZ2860-SOCI |
Fees for 2024
Fees for 2025
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, 426 KB
- International Application Form PDF, 357 KB
- Study Career Prep brochure Level 4 PDF, 2.6 MB
Area of Interest
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