Certificate in Languages

Summary

Pursue part-time language study and earn a recognised qualification. Build valuable language skills alongside other study or work.

Warning for international students

This part-time programme may not be suitable for you as an international student, owing to New Zealand Student Visa requirements for full-time study.

If you have any questions or would like to discuss an alternative programme in your field of interest, contact the International Office.

Showcase your language skills

The Certificate in Languages (CertLang) is a flexible, part-time qualification designed for anyone keen to study a language without committing to a full degree. Whether you’re looking to boost your CV, enhance your professional skills, or simply pursue a personal interest, this qualification gives you a way to showcase your language proficiency. You can use the CertLang to add value to your main qualification, such as a Bachelor of Arts or a Bachelor of Global Studies. Or you can use it to turn your language study into a recognised credential in its own right. Either way, the CertLang can turn your passion for languages into a practical advantage.

Communicate across cultures

Studying a language opens the door to authentic cross-cultural communication. It helps you connect with people on a deeper level by understanding their values, humour, and worldview. Learning a language goes beyond translation—it helps you see new perspectives and communicate respectfully in different cultural settings. Whether you’re travelling, working internationally, or building global friendships, learning another language changes the way you see the world.

Boost your career

Adding a language qualification like the Certificate in Languages to your studies can give you a real edge in the job market. It shows employers you’ve achieved a solid level of language proficiency and cultural understanding—skills that are increasingly valued across many fields. In the CertLang, you can focus on any of the languages we teach at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington. Whether it’s a global language or te reo Māori, this credential highlights your versatility and can open doors in education, government, business, and beyond.

How you’ll study

You’ll study for the CertLang part time over three trimesters—or possibly longer, depending on your choice of courses.

If you are at beginner level when you start the CertLang, you’ll take 100-level courses in your chosen language. If you have prior knowledge of a language, you may be able to begin at a higher level.

You’ll be assessed through a combination of assignments, quizzes, in-class tests, and presentations.

Certificate or Diploma

The 60-point Certificate in Languages is designed for learners at entry to intermediate levels.

If you want to pursue more advanced language study or expand your cultural knowledge, you might consider the 120-point Diploma in Languages.