Course details

NZ Diploma in Music
NZQF Level 5

About the course

The New Zealand Diploma in Music (Level 5) is a one year, full-time music qualification that develops musicianship and performance skills. Students are given opportunities to experience all aspects of music including assisting in the annual Vision College tour to schools and other performance events, developing and strengthening their musical knowledge and being prepared for the Bachelor of Music Degree. The course is unique because it is taught within a Christian environment.

All applicants for this programme need to be able to play an instrument or sing and will receive one-on-one tuition that will take their skills to a more advanced level. Papers are delivered over one year, except for The Music Industry, History of Popular Music, Music Production and Technology, and Songwriting which are one semester. Instrument and/or Voice majors receive individual tuition. All other papers are in class or group contexts.

Entry requirements

  • For students aged 17+.
  • NCEA Level 2 is required for students aged 16-19 (NCEA is not required for students 20+).
  • Have received some music training in an instrument or voice.
  • Students will be required to produce two referee reports, and complete a pre-audition form.
  • Be interviewed and auditioned.

Provisional Entry:

  • Provisional Entry may be granted to domestic applicants who do not meet the criteria above, but present evidence of ability to succeed and are able to show they are well prepared to study the programme.

International Students

  • International students must be at least 18 years old.
  • International students for whom English is a second language must have an IELTS Academic score of 6.0 with no individual band lower than 5.5, or a recognized equivalent test.

About the provider

Vision College is a division of ATctivate Training Centre which is a charitable company born out of a desire to invest into the future of New Zealand and the world by growing people. Since 1984, thousands of people have benefitted from the dedication of our staff and their support for learners of all ages and backgrounds. Our staff enjoy the challenge and satisfaction of this mission, seeing changed lives and people growing toward their full potential.



We offer a variety of programmes across multiple campuses. You can study from Level 1 Certificates through to Level 7 Degrees.

Vision College has 8 Schools incorporating the following areas of study:

Business Administration (Level 3)
Counselling (Level 5-7)
Early Childhood Education (Level 3-5)
Information Technology (Level 5-6)
Christian Ministry (Level 5)
Music (Level 5-7)
Ultimate - Foundation Skills (Level 1-2)
Trades - Security, Mechanical Engineering & Agriculture (Level 2-3)

Most of our courses are free for domestic students (conditions apply)

All of our programmes are NZQA approved and, where applicable, eligible for students to apply for loans and allowances.