Institute of Technology or Polytechnic
Unitec Institute of TechnologyNew Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment Pathways (Level 4) – Art and Design
Level of Study
Certificate
Summary
This programme is ideal if you want to go on to higher-level study in art and design. It starts with a base in Identity and Communication, then starts to build your art and design knowledge, in both individual work and collaborative projects. While this certificate programme is not equivalent to University Entrance, successful completion will allow you to progress to higher-level programmes.
Highlights
- Emphasis on practical skills and studio-based learning: you will be creating your art and design in a studio environment and participate in group critiques with your fellow students.
- Learn from Lecturers who are eager to share their industry experience with you.
- Access to Unitec’s excellent communication studies and design facilities.
- A mix of classroom sessions, practical workshops, critique sessions, guest speakers, discussions, presentations and online learning.
- A chance to take classes in Unitec’s marae, a great setting to explore Māori oratorical traditions and the role of culture in communication.
Where to from here
Upon successful completion of this programme you can go onto further study in Bachelor of Creative Enterprise programme.
Please note: International students who graduate will NOT be eligible for a post study work visa upon completion of this programme.
Career Options- This programme prepares you for further study toward a career in art and design in creative industries
Domestic/NZ students
$4140
(Approximate fees only - includes GST but excludes the Compulsory Student Services Fee (CSSF) levy. Your final study costs depends on a number of factors including the courses you select to study. View options for funding your study and fees-free eligibility)
International students
$13,207 (NZD) (approximate fees for 60 credits) Save up to $1,000 (NZD) with the Unitec International Study Grant 2026. Terms and conditions apply.
Semester DatesSem 1 2026: 23 Feb – 28 Jun
Sem 2 2026: 20 Jul – 22 Nov
For course and class timings, refer to the specific course webpage.
For StudyLink purposes, please ensure your application states your earliest course start date.
Downloads and resourcesProgramme regulations - New Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment Pathways (Level 4) – Art and Design Order a personalised brochure Scholarships and awardsStudent LifeFor Māori studentsFor Pacific studentsFor International students
Entry criteria
To apply for this programme, you must meet the following criteria:
- Academic requirements
- General admission, special admission, or discretionary admission requirements
- English language requirements
- You will need to complete a pre-entry Skills Review session
To be eligible for the Art & Design Pathway, you must meet one of the following:
- UE numeracy or equivalent
- A minimum total of 40 NCEA Level 2 credits across four approved subjects, including:
- 12 credits in English at Level 1 or higher; Or
- A relevant qualification at Level 3 on the New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework (NZQCF) or an equivalent international qualification (e.g., International Baccalaureate or Cambridge); Or
- The New Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment Pathways (Level 3) (previously known as the New Zealand Certificate in Study and Career Preparation (Level 3)), or an equivalent qualification.
- You’ll be 16 years old or older when the programme starts.
- If you’re under 16, you’ll need to complete an Early Release Exemption form.
Disclaimer