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New Zealand Certificate in Performing Arts (Level 4)

STARTS: February 2025
Madras Street

Start your journey towards a career in the entertainment industry.

This qualification is the only Level 4 performing arts programme in New Zealand.

It will equip you with a repertoire of essential techniques and develop your skills in the areas of singing, dancing, movement, acting and performance. Together, these skills will increase your opportunity to work in the performing arts.

Audition dates:

Christchurch:
• 20 - 22 September
• 4 December (Late auditions accepted if space available)

Auckland: 15 September

Please prepare a song of choice.

Fees for 2024

Domestic Fee
$6,338 - $7,197 per year
Indicative Student Services Fee
$350 per year

Fees for 2025

Domestic Fee
$6,720 - $7,630 per year
Indicative Student Services Fee
$370.50 per year

10 NCEA Level 1 literacy credits

In addition you need to:

Attend an audition to assess:

  • vocal skills and ability,
  • acting skills,
  • ability and potential to study performing arts.

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

A selection process will take place for this programme. This will be based on application information and audition demonstrating the ability to sing, dance and/or act competently and perform in front of others

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 qualification can lead to employment or self-employment as an entry-level performer in performing arts industry roles.

Study pathways

After completing this qualification, you can broaden your skills and opportunities by studying the Bachelor of Performing Arts with optional specialisation in Music Theatre (subject to audition).

New Zealand Certificate in Performing Arts (Level 4)

FULL-TIME - 1 Year

Start your journey towards a career in the entertainment industry.

Information
Type Certificate
Code NZ3420
Next Starts February 2025
May be available for Study Visa? Yes
Credits 120
Level 4
May be eligible for Studylink? Yes
Reference NZ3420-STRU

Fees for 2024

Domestic Fee
$6,338 - $7,197 per year
Indicative Student Services Fee
$350 per year

Fees for 2025

Domestic Fee
$6,720 - $7,630 per year
Indicative Student Services Fee
$370.50 per year
Enquire Now View Dates & Apply
NZ Certificate in Performing Arts - Feb 2025 - Christchurch
Start date: 24 February 2025
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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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Additional Entry Requirements

In addition you need to:

Attend an audition to assess:

  • vocal skills and ability,
  • acting skills,
  • ability and potential to study performing arts.

See overview for more

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

Key Information for Students

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