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New Zealand Diploma in Audio Engineering and Production (Level 5)

STARTS: February 2026
Madras Street

Launch your career as a professional audio engineer.

Please note that this programme is pending reapproval with NZQA, but we are now accepting applications

This course is designed to equip you with the expertise to capture, mix and reproduce sound for various applications including music, film and live events. This includes tracking; mixing, mastering and record production; DJing; live sound production and streaming; sound for film and TV; radio, including commercials; spoken word production including audio books and podcasts; audio and MIDI software and hardware design and engineering; sound production including sound design, game and multimedia audio and sonic arts; audiology; acoustic design.

You’ll explore the physics of sound and learn techniques used in digital audio recording and manipulation. You’ll become fluent in the use of computer-based and linear recording systems and familiar with both digital and analogue mixing consoles.

As well as tutorials, demonstrations and workshops, you’ll undertake practical exercises like building a simple audio kitset.

Fees for 2026

Domestic Fee
$7,709 - $7,800 per year
Indicative Student Services Fee
$392.50 per year

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.

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Core courses
 
Elective courses

Career opportunities

This qualification will prepare you to work in commercial audio facilities with some supervision. Potential roles include audio producer, studio engineer, studio manager, mastering engineer, live sound technician, radio producer, stage technician or post-production specialist for film and television.

Study pathways

This qualification can lead to the New Zealand Diploma in Audio Engineering and Production (Level 6) and the Bachelor of Music which are both available at Ara.

New Zealand Diploma in Audio Engineering and Production (Level 5)

FULL-TIME - 1 Year (Part-time options available)

Launch your career as a professional audio engineer.

Information
Type Diploma
Code NZ3422
Next Starts February 2026
May be available for Study Visa? Yes
Credits 120
Level 5
Available Part time Yes
Reference NZ3422-STRU

Fees for 2026

Domestic Fee
$7,709 - $7,800 per year
Indicative Student Services Fee
$392.50 per year
Enquire Now View Dates & Apply
New Zealand Diploma in Audio Engineering and Production (Level 5) - Feb 2026 - CHCH
Start date: 23 February 2026
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Part Time - New Zealand Diploma in Audio Engineering and Production (Level 5) - Feb 2026 - CHCH
Start date: 23 February 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.

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Documents

Area of Interest

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