New Zealand Diploma in Testing (Level 5) (Pre-Analytical Technician Pathway)

This programme will equip you with skills required by the commercial science sector, which encompasses laboratories, manufacturing, food and product testing and quality management. Course content is made up of a mix of practical skills that you’ll use every day and theory relating directly to the modern workplace. It’s designed to equip you to analyse, report and respond appropriately in an operational laboratory or other science-based workplace. Areas this programme covers include chemistry, applied microbiology, how to work in professional teams, ethics and quality assurance with an emphasis on practical, hands-on skills. The focus of this programme is practical laboratory skills and transferable team skills required in every workplace. Please note: this programme will only proceed if there are sufficient enrolments. Available part-time up to 3 years. Note: Any questions about this programme please email [email protected]. Conditional upon access to an ISO 17025 accredited Laboratory (Accredited by IANZ – International Accreditation New Zealand) and an approved workplace mentor. This programme is not available for international applications.

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, book an IELTS or other test through the Ara Examination Centre or 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. IELTS 5.5 Academic (no lower than 5.0 in any subtest). For acceptable alternatives refer to the English Proficiency Outcomes Chart. Still 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. For the Pre-Analytical Technician pathway: students are required to be concurrently employed in a Patient Services or Phlebotomy trainee role NCEA Level 2, which must include 14 credits in science OR Level 4 qualification in science or relevant equivalent If you have undertaken examinations other than NCEA (e.g. International Baccalaureate, Cambridge Examination), Ara will assess your qualification for academic entry equivalency.