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Foundation Studies

Our foundation programmes are the stepping stones to further study or to a new career.

They can enable you to meet the entry requirements for more advanced study, or help you to learn something new, just because you want to. Classroom and online delivery options are available so you can choose whatever works best for your learning style and commitments.

You might take a foundation course if:

  • You don’t meet the entry criteria for a particular programme of study
  • You’re returning to study after time away from formal education
  • You’re seeking to change career or study direction
  • You’re an international student and/or permanent resident and English is your second language, and you don’t meet the English entry criteria for a programme of study
About foundation programmes

Upon successful completion of an assessed foundation programme you’ll be awarded a qualification. This will enable you to meet the academic requirements for most diplomas and degrees at Ara.

Non-assessed foundation courses help you to develop skills in subjects like computing, reading, writing and maths. You can learn for personal development and enjoyment, or to help you decide what you’d like to do next. You’re not awarded a qualification at the end of a non-assessed course as there’s no testing.

Please note: Completing a foundation programme does not guarantee you automatic entry into other programmes as places may be limited or other criteria may apply.

Please note: places are limited on these courses and funding may be exhausted throughout the year. We’re experiencing high volumes of demand for foundation education, and we’ll do our best to support and transition learners where possible.

Drop into campus or call us to:

  • Find out where to start your study
  • Find out what support is available
  • Get help deciding on a course to suit you
  • Find out what skills and knowledge are required before you start
  • Get advice and answers to your study questions

At Ara the skills, knowledge and understanding you've gained through previous study and experience can be credited towards your chosen qualification. Instead of enrolling, you'll be able to have your prior learning assessed through our Centre for Assessment of Prior Learning (CAPL).

Programmes

Certificate in Foundation Skills - Career and Education

Prepare for further study or employment with confidence and direction.

FULL-TIME - 19 Weeks
Starts: February
Madras Street
Language and Education

Trades Primer

Sample a range of trades and find your future career path.

FULL-TIME - 19 Weeks
Starts: February
MULTIPLE
Trades

New Zealand Certificate in Computing (Intermediate User)

Gain computing skills for a wide range of employment opportunities.

FULL-TIME - 19 Weeks (Part-time options available)
Digital Technologies

New Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment Pathways (Level 3) Cons, Arch and ICT Pathway

Gain the academic skills required for higher-level study in construction, architecture or ICT

FULL-TIME - 19 Weeks
Starts: February
Madras Street
Digital Technologies Architecture and Construction Management

New Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment Pathways (Level 3) Engineering Pathway

Gain the academic skills required for higher-level study in engineering

FULL-TIME - 19 Weeks
Starts: February
Madras Street
Engineering

New Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment Pathways (Level 3) Health and Science Pathway

Gain the academic skills required for higher-level, health-related study

FULL-TIME - 19 Weeks
Starts: February
MULTIPLE
Animal and Laboratory Science Health Promotion, Nutrition, Sport and Exercise Health

New Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment Pathways (Level 3) Open Pathway

Gain the skills and entry requirements needed for Level 4 study at Ara

FULL-TIME - 19 Weeks
Starts: February
Madras Street

New Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment (Level 4) Construction & ICT Pathway

Prepare for higher-level study in construction and ICT studies

FULL-TIME - 19 Weeks (Part-time options available)
Starts: February
Madras Street
Digital Technologies Trades Architecture and Construction Management

New Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment (Level 4) Engineering Pathway

Prepare to study a diploma in engineering

FULL-TIME - 19 Weeks (Part-time options available)
Starts: February
Madras Street
Engineering

New Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment (Level 4) Pre Health Pathway

Prepare for higher-level, health-related study

FULL-TIME - 19 Weeks (Part-time options available)
Starts: February
MULTIPLE
Health Promotion, Nutrition, Sport and Exercise Health

New Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment (Level 4) Open Pathway

Gain the academic skills required for a range of diplomas and degrees

FULL-TIME - 19 Weeks (Part-time options available)
Starts: February
Madras Street