New Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment Pathways (Level 4) – Performing and Screen
Course details
| NZQF Level | 4 |
|---|
About the course
This programme is ideal if you want to go on to higher-level study in performing and screen arts, if you’re not exactly sure what area to focus on, or if you’re already in employment in this industry and want to improve your personal communication and professional presentation skills. While this programme is not equivalent to University Entrance, successful completion will allow you to progress to higher-level programmes.
The New Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment Pathways (Level 4) – Screen & Art, has electives in screen arts, acting, dance and technical productions. This programme will expose you to the basic principles of production, acting, dance, theatre technologies and design, moving image study, as well as collaborative project-based learning. Which will help build the foundation you need to progress to higher level study in programmes such as, PASA.
Highlights
- Emphasis on practical skills and project-based learning: You will develop performance pieces, work behind the scenes in the theatre, and make your own videos.
- Learn from Lecturers who are eager to share their industry experience with you.
- Access to Unitec’s excellent performing arts facilities.
- A mix of classroom sessions, practical workshops, critique sessions, student seminars, discussions, presentations and online learning.
- A chance to take classes in Unitec’s marae, a great setting to explore Māori oratorical traditions and the role of culture in communication.
Please note: International students who graduate will NOT be eligible for a post-study work visa upon completion of this programme.
Choose your elective
When you enrol you will select your area of interest from the following elective courses:
Creativity happens through collaboration.
Work in creative teams to bring artistic ideas to life. This course helps you build communication, planning, and production skills essential for performing and technical arts careers.
Technical Production +
Discover the backstage magic of live performance.
In this hands-on course, you’ll explore lighting, sound, stage management, and theatre design using our professional Art House and Mac Lab. Perfect for anyone wanting to build a creative career in live or technical production.
Screen Production +
From concept to premiere — bring your film to life.
Work in Unitec’s purpose-built studio as you learn how to pitch, plan, shoot, and edit your own short film. Collaborate with your classmates and see your final cut screen at the Art House.
Acting +
Step into the spotlight.
Explore acting techniques for both stage and screen through voice, movement, and character work. This course prepares you for auditions and performances, giving you confidence in your craft.
Dance +
Move with purpose, perform with passion.
Step into the studio and explore dynamic dance styles including Contemporary, Street Dance, and Improvisation. You’ll choreograph your own pieces, experiment with new ideas, and grow as a performer in a supportive, high-energy environment. This is your space to move, create, and thrive.
Collaborative Production +
Creativity happens through collaboration.
Work in creative teams to bring artistic ideas to life. This course helps you build communication, planning, and production skills essential for performing and technical arts careers.
Career Options
- Entry into further study toward a career in the media or performing and screen arts.
Annual Tuition Fees
Domestic/NZ students
$3,910
(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) – Performing and Screen 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 Performing and Screen 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.
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.