New Zealand Certificate in Information Technology Essentials (Level 4)
Course details
About the course
About the programme
Want to develop great IT foundation skills and gain valuable practical experience? How about doing that and getting guaranteed entry into our IT degree?
IT is a global industry and there are currently far more IT-related jobs than there are graduates, so skills in this sector give you pretty good employment prospects.
This programme is your first step to gaining great introductory skills across a range of IT areas. Topics include practical experience in web development, networking, hardware, programming, operating systems and the internet. In addition to technical topics, you'll learn industry skills and explore online tools such as blogs and wikis.
You’ll study in a creative, innovative and supportive environment and, with small class sizes, you’ll get plenty of one-on-one attention from your experienced teachers.
When you finish this certificate and graduate, you’ll have guaranteed entry into our three-year IT degree, the Bachelor of Information Technology. This is a hands-on, practical degree so you’ll learn by doing. You’ll also build the communication skills you need to work effectively in the industry.
Entry requirements
Entry
Entry requirements
- There are no academic entry criteria.
- It is preferred that learners hold the New Zealand Certificate in Computing (Intermediate User) (Level 3), appropriate assessment standards in Digital Technologies Level 2, or equivalent knowledge, skills and experience.
- International students will be individually assessed to ensure you are ready for this study
English language requirements
- If English is not your first language, you must provide:
- New Zealand University Entrance OR
- Overall Academic IELTS 5.5 with no individual band score lower than 5.0 (achieved in one test completed in the last two years), OR
- Acceptable alternative evidence of the required IELTS (see here for internationally recognised proficiency tests and proficiency outcomes for international students).
If you need to improve your English Language skills, we offer a wide range of English programmes.
Selection process
All applicants who meet the entry requirements will be accepted unless the number of applications exceeds the available places. In this case, a waitlist will be used.
Pathways into this programme
Computing is an excellent background qualification for entry into this programme. We also offer the following programmes which would be really good pathways:
- New Zealand Certificate in Computing (Intermediate User) (Level 3)
- Bridging to Business certificate
- Bridging to engineering certificate
Want your existing skills recognised?
If you have extensive knowledge and skills due to practical experience in this area, please ask us about our recognition of prior learning process. You may have already gained credits towards this qualification and could achieve it in a shorter timeframe. Please email [email protected] or call 0800 762 786.
About the provider
If you want to get a job and build a great career, Otago Polytechnic is a smart choice.
We’re known for offering the highest quality, hands-on training that helps students succeed. Our graduates are confident, skilled, and ready to work from day one. And, employers love that.
We’ve earned the highest ratings from the New Zealand Government for our teaching and support. Our flexible study options make it easier for you to learn in a way that suits your life.
At Otago Polytechnic, you’ll gain practical skills, real-world experience, and the confidence to make a real impact - in your career and in your community.