Institute of Technology or Polytechnic
Unitec Institute of TechnologyNew Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment Pathways (Level 4) – Architecture
Level of Study
Certificate
Summary
This programme is ideal if you want to go on to higher-level study in Architecture and Architectural Technology. It’s perfect for people who do not meet entry requirements for higher-level programme at Unitec, or those looking for a career start in a creative discipline. While this certificate programme is not equivalent to University Entrance, successful completion will allow you to progress to higher-level programmes at Unitec.
Highlights- Speed your way into the Bachelor of Architectural Studies, New Zealand Diploma in Architectural Technology and gain the maths required for entry;
- Tailored content for Architecture programmes means the content is relevant to the programme in which you want to enter;
- A mix of classroom sessions, practical activities, critique sessions, guest speakers, discussions, presentations and online learning;
- A chance to take engage with Unitec’s marae, a great setting to explore mātauranga Māori and the role of culture in communication.
Upon successful completion of this programme, you can apply to further study in Architecture programmes including the New Zealand Diploma in Architectural Technology.
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 study toward a career in architecture and architectural technology
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) – Architecture 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 Architecture 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.
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