New Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment Pathways (Level 4) – Construction
Course details
| NZQF Level | 4 |
|---|
About the course
This programme is ideal if you want to go on to higher-level study in construction at Unitec. You’ll gain the literacy, math, and basic construction principles required to enter our construction programmes.
Highlights
- 16-week programme full-time: Speed your way into the NZ Diploma in Architectural Technology, NZ Diploma in Construction*, or Bachelor of Construction
- *Cross-credits into these programmes: you’ll need fewer credits to gain this qualification.
- Tailored content for the construction diploma and bachelor: this means the content is highly relevant to the programme you want to enter.
- In this programme you’ll already be a part of a Construction student body: you’ll be learning with other aspiring construction managers, property developers and/or quantity surveyors.
- A mix of classroom sessions, practical activities, guest speakers, discussions, presentations and online learning.
- A chance to engage with Unitec’s marae, a great setting to explore mātarangi Māori and the role of culture in communication.
Where to from here?
Graduates of this programme can apply for further study in Unitec’s construction programmes:
- Bachelor of Construction (Construction Economics, Construction Management, or Property Development): graduates with a B- average or above can apply for any major of this programme
- New Zealand Diploma Construction: graduates can apply for this programme and gain up to 30 cross-credits available
- New Zealand Diploma Architectural Technology: graduates can apply for this programme and gain up to 30 cross-credits available
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 construction
Annual Tuition Fees
Domestic/NZ students
$3,340
(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 Dates
Sem 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 resources
Programme regulations - New Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment Pathways (Level 4) – Construction Order a personalised brochure Scholarships and awardsStudent LifeFor Māori studentsFor Pacific studentsFor International students
Entry requirements
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
Academic Requirements
To be eligible for the Construction Pathway, you must meet one of the following:
- UE numeracy or equivalent
- A minimum total of 40 NCEA Level 2 credits across four subjects, including:
- At least 12 credits in Mathematics (preferably achievement standards in algebra, calculus, or trigonometry)
- At least 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.
General Admission
- 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.
About the provider
Unitec is New Zealand’s largest institute of technology offering a wide range of work-oriented programmes and short courses. We offer leading employment-focused education at our two campuses in Mt. Albert, and Waitākere. At Unitec we think the traditional view of spending hours in a lecture theatre is out-dated. And that's why we approach learning differently. With our unique combination of world-class theory and hands-on experience, you'll get the skills to meet the changing needs of employers. And because our tutors are industry-based, they know what it takes to make it in the real world. We offer a friendly and diverse learning environment with flexible study programmes, lots of support, and hands-on experience to build the skills you need for your career and your future.