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.
Visit us at the City Campus in the Rakaia centre. Here, we can help you:
- Find out where to start your study
- Find out what support is available
- Get help putting together a programme or courses that suits you
- Find out what skills and knowledge is required before you start
- Get advice and answers to your study questions
At Ara the skills, knowledge and understanding you have gained through previous study and experience can be credited towards your chosen qualification. Instead of enrolling, you will be able to have your prior learning assessed through our Centre for Assessment of Prior Learning (CAPL).
Programmes
Study and Career Preparation - Applied Science, Level 4
Prepare for higher level study in health and science.
Study and Career Preparation - Broadcasting and Applied Media Pathway, Level 4
Gain the academic skills required for higher-level study in broadcast media and journalism.
Study and Career Preparation - Business and ICT Pathway, Level 4
Prepare for higher-level studies in business or IT.
Study and Career Preparation - Architectural Studies and Construction Pathway, Level 4
Prepare for higher-level study in construction and architectural studies.
Study and Career Preparation - Engineering Diploma Pathway, Level 4
Prepare for higher level study in engineering.
Study and Career Preparation - Engineering Degree Pathway, Level 4
Prepare for higher level study in engineering.
Study and Career Preparation - Medical Imaging Pathway, Level 4
Prepare for higher level study in health and science.
Study and Career Preparation - Pre-Health Pathway, Level 4
Prepare for higher level study in health and science.
Study and Career Preparation - Tourism and Hospitality Management Pathway, Level 4
Prepare for higher-level study in tourism and hospitality management.
New Zealand Certificate in Computing (Advanced User)
Enhance your employment opportunities with advanced computing skills.
Study and Career Preparation - Architectural Studies or Construction pathway, Level 3
Gain the academic skills required for higher-level study in construction.
Study and Career Preparation - Engineering Pre-Pathway, Level 3
Gain the academic skills required for higher-level study in engineering
Study and Career Preparation - Health Pathway, Level 3
Gain the academic skills required for higher-level study for health pathways
Study and Career Preparation - Sports, Nutrition and Health Promotion Pathway, Level 3
Gain the academic skills required for higher-level study in sport science, nutrition or health promotion.
Study and Career Preparation - Study Opportunities Pathway, Level 3
Gain the academic skills and entry requirements needed for Level 4 study.
Study and Career Preparation - Support Work and Social Work Pathway, Level 3
Gain the academic skills and entry required for higher level study in support work and then social work
Study and Career Preparation - TOA Sports Pathway, Level 3
Gain the academic skills required for higher level study in Te reo or Sports coaching.
Study and Career Preparation - Animal Science/Veterinary Nursing Pathway, Level 3
Gain the academic skills required for higher-level study in animal science.
New Zealand Certificate in Computing (Intermediate User)
Gain computing skills for a wide range of employment opportunities.
Certificate in Foundation Skills - Career and Education
Prepare for further study or employment with confidence and direction.
Certificate in Skills for Living for Supported Learners with optional strand in Skills for Working
Gain skills to assist you to be a productive citizen of Aotearoa.