Institute of Technology or Polytechnic
Ara Institute of CanterburyNew Zealand Diploma in Information Technology Technical Support
This course is available
On-Campus
Level of Study
Diploma
Duration
1 year
Next start date
Expected Feb 2027
Campus
Christchurch - City Campus
Summary
Technology support calls for practical thinking, clear communication and the confidence to work across different systems. You'll build a broad base in hardware, networks, operating systems, databases and service support, with a focus on keeping technology secure, reliable and useful.
Learning is hands-on, using computer labs, virtual technologies and workplace-style scenarios. You'll practise troubleshooting common IT issues, documenting solutions and supporting users, while developing the professional judgement needed for entry-level IT roles.
Key features- Practical troubleshooting focus: Practise troubleshooting system and network problems using standard tools and procedures.
- Employer-valued skills: Build the communication, documentation and customer service skills employers value.
- Workplace-style scenarios: Use virtual technologies and computer labs to practise technical support tasks.
- Clear study pathways: Create a pathway into networking, systems administration or other higher IT study.
- IT hardware, systems and application software
- Networking technologies, services and security
- Operating systems installation and administration
- Technical troubleshooting tools and procedures
- Database design, administration and query languages
- IT service management and customer support
- Information systems and business processes
- User experience and interface design concepts
- Programming fundamentals and simple working code
- Professional, legal and ethical IT practice
- Communication, teamwork and documentation
- Critical thinking and decision-making for IT support
Entry criteria
Academic RequirementsNCEA L2 which must include: 10 credits in Literacy Level 2 or above and 10 credits in Numeracy Level 2 or above
- OR New Zealand Certificate in Information Technology Essentials (Level 4)
- OR New Zealand Certificate in Computing (Advanced User) Level 4
OR New Zealand Certificate in Study and Career Preparation (Level 4) Ara Business and ICT Pathway or equivalent
If you have undertaken examinations other than NCEA (e.g. International Baccalaureate, Cambridge Examination), Ara will assess your qualification for academic entry equivalency.
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.
English RequirementsOverall IELTS 5.5 Academic
- 5.0 Listening
- 5.0 Reading
- 5.0 Writing
- 5.0 Speaking
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, 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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