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New Zealand Certificate in Creativity (Level 4)

Starts: February 2026
Madras Street; Timaru
International Close Date: Please enquire

Gain foundational hands-on experience for employment or further studies in the creative industries.

Please note that this programme is pending approval, but we are now accepting applications

This programme provides an introduction to creative thinking. It will prepare you for further tertiary study and give you transferable skills necessary across many industries.

You'll be given opportunities to develop strategies in problem solving, idea generation and visual and oral communication. You'll also be introduced to a variety of creative media and tools to explore solutions to real-world problems.

10 NCEA Level 1 literacy credits

OR New Zealand Certificate in Digital Media Design (Level 4)

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
  • 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.
  • 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

"Please note: The above selection entry requirements are pending NZQA approval."

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 more

Career opportunities

This programme is intended as a pathway to higher level study.

Study pathways

This qualification provides a pathway to higher level diploma or degree-level study in creative subjects.

Recommended school subjects

  • Design
  • Photography
  • Art
  • Graphics
  • English

New Zealand Certificate in Creativity (Level 4)

Full-time - 19 Weeks

Gain foundational hands-on experience for employment or further studies in the creative industries.

Information
Type Certificate
Code NZ2869
Next starts February 2026
May be available for Study Visa? Yes
International application close date Please enquire
Credits 60
Level 4
Additional Equipment/Fees Advised before enrolment
May be eligible for Studylink? Yes
Reference NZ2869-MAIN
Enquire Now View Dates & Apply
New Zealand Certificate in Creativity (Level 4)
Start date: 16 February 2026
Apply
New Zealand Certificate in Creativity (Level 4)
Start date: 16 February 2026
Apply
New Zealand Certificate in Creativity (Level 4)
Start date: 20 July 2026
Apply

With an internationally-recognised Ara qualification, the world is your oyster. Our graduates can be found working and making a difference across the globe…

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Credit Recognition

If you have prior relevant experience or previous related study credits, you may be eligible for credit recognition towards this qualification.

Find out more

Documents

Area of Interest

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