Institute of Technology or Polytechnic
Ara Institute of CanterburyBachelor of Information and Communications Technologies (Network Engineering)
This course is available
On-Campus
Level of Study
Bachelor's Degree
Duration
3 years
Next start date
Expected Feb 2027
Campus
Christchurch - City Campus
Summary
The Network Engineering pathway will prepare you for a career in networking, infrastructure and cloud systems, focusing on designing, deploying and managing modern IT environments.
The programme emphasises practical learning through hands‑on labs, simulations and real‑world projects. You’ll develop technical expertise in networking technologies, cybersecurity, cloud platforms and infrastructure management. You’ll also learn how to build and manage complex network environments, including cloud infrastructure, routing and switching technologies, and network security.
This pathway equips you with the knowledge and technical skills to configure enterprise networks, manage infrastructure, and ensure secure connectivity across systems and platforms.
Key highlights- Industry‑relevant networking skills for modern enterprise environments
- Hands‑on experience with real networking and infrastructure technologies
- Skills for cloud and distributed systems used across today’s ICT roles
- Cybersecurity awareness embedded into networking practice
- Preparation for critical ICT roles that keep organisations connected and secure
- Flexible study options, with full‑time in 3 years or part‑time up to 5 years
- Gain real-world experience in your final year through a work-integrated learning project, where you’ll apply your skills in an industry setting
- Computer networks and network architecture
- Routing and switching technologies
- Enterprise networking and automation
- Network security and cybersecurity fundamentals
- Wireless networks and cloud infrastructure
- Network monitoring and performance management
- Infrastructure deployment and operations
Entry criteria
Academic RequirementsNew Zealand University Entrance: NCEA Level 3 (60 credits at level 3 and 20 credits at level 2 or higher) which must include:
- 14 credits at Level 3 in each of:
- mathematics or physics or statistics or accounting
- English or history or art history or classics or geography or economics
- One other subject from the list of approved subjects*
Literacy* - 10 credits at Level 2 or above, made up of 5 credits in reading, 5 credits in writing, and
Numeracy* - 10 credits at Level 1 or above (specified achievement standards, or unit standards 26623, 26626, 26627)
OR one of the following:
- New Zealand Diploma in Information Technology Technical Support Level 5
- New Zealand Diploma in Web Development and Design Level 5
- New Zealand Diploma in Networking Level 6
- New Zealand Diploma in Systems Administration Level 6
- OR New Zealand Certificate in Study and Career Preparation (Level 4) Ara Business and ICT Pathway or equivalent
Due to Covid-19 disruption, if you studied and achieved NCEA Level 3 during 2020, you only need 12 credits per Level 3 subject (i.e. total of 36 credits). Literacy and Numeracy requirements remain the same
If you have undertaken examinations other than NCEA (e.g. International Baccalaureate, Cambridge Examination), Ara will assess your qualification for academic entry equivalency.
* NZQA approved subjects: see https://www2.nzqa.govt.nz/ncea/understanding-secondary-quals/university-entrance/
Alternative RequirementsStill 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?
Overall IELTS 6.0 Academic
- 5.5 Listening
- 5.5 Reading
- 5.5 Writing
- 5.5 Speaking
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, please book a PTE Academic test through the Ara Examination Centre or complete an NZQA-approved English language test 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.
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Please note that degrees and qualifications earned via remote or distance learning are excluded from the overseas credential evaluation and recognition services provided by the Chinese Service Center for Scholarly Exchange (CSCSE). For more information, please contact CSCSE directly: +86-10-62677800 (phone) or visit their website(external link that opens in a new tab).
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