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

STARTS: 二月 2026
Madras Street

Launch your career as a professional audio engineer.

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.

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.

To be admitted to this programme you must be at least 18 years of age on the date the programme starts, and meet one of the following requirements:

NCEA Level 2

  • Minimum of 12 NCEA credits at Level 2 in each of the four approved subjects

10 NCEA literacy credits at Level 2 or above, made up of:

  • 5 credits in reading
  • 5 credits in writing

Have completed four years of secondary education.

A recognised, relevant Level 4 qualification

Preference will be given to applicants with NCEA Level 3, Merit of Excellence passes in Physics, Mathematics, and Music

* NZQA approved subjects: see http://www.nzqa.govt.nz/qualifications-standards/award.university-entrance/

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

Applicants may be required to attend an interview or if they live at some distance from the campus complete a telephone interview and must produce copies of applicable certificates or evidence of prior achievements before interviews

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 will prepare you to work in commercial audio facilities with some supervision.

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 二月 2026
May be available for Study Visa? Yes
Credits 120
Level 5
Available Part time Yes
Reference NZ3422-STRU
Enquire Now View Dates & Apply
New Zealand Diploma in Audio Engineering and Production (Level 5) - Feb 2026 - CHCH
Start date: 23 二月 2026
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Part Time - New Zealand Diploma in Audio Engineering and Production (Level 5) - Feb 2026 - CHCH
Start date: 23 二月 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

Key Information for Students

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