Bachelor of Information and Communications Technologies (Data Engineering)
Course details
| NZQF Level | 7 |
|---|
About the course
The Data Engineering pathway provides the high-level technical expertise required to design, build and maintain the complex "plumbing" of the modern digital economy. While data scientists find insights, data engineers build the systems that make those insights possible. During your studies you’ll master the technologies and practices required to manage massive datasets, ensuring data is accessible, high-quality and secure. The programme covers the full data lifecycle from collection and storage to sophisticated transformation, visualisation and pipeline automation. Crucially, you’ll explore these technical skills within the unique context of Aotearoa New Zealand, mastering data governance, AI ethics, and Māori data sovereignty to ensure your technical solutions are socially responsible and culturally grounded.
Key highlights
Build high‑demand industry skills in one of the fastest‑growing areas of ICT Gain hands-on experience with industry leading platforms (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud) Work with real data systems used to store, process and analyse large datasets Master the “DataOps” required to fuel machine learning and AI models Become an expert in responsible data handling, addressing AI bias and data privacy Complete your degree in three years full-time with part-time options available for working professionals
What you’ll learn (technical competencies)
Designing automated ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) and ELT workflows Database design and advanced database concepts like SQL, NoSQL, and NewSQL architecture Working with distributed computing frameworks like Spark or Hadoop Cloud computing and distributed systems Artificial intelligence and machine learning Data-driven decision making Data governance and ethical data practices
Entry requirements
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.
About the provider
Ara Institute of Canterbury is recognised as one of New Zealand’s leading tertiary institutes. Specialising in applied, vocational and professional training, it offers more than 150 courses from foundation to postgraduate level.
Ara caters to a diverse range of learners; from school leavers and career changers to professionals wanting to upskill and individuals seeking to re-enter the workforce.
All Ara students benefit from the Ara Advantage: relevant courses, taught by inspirational mentors in real-life learning environments. Almost every Ara programme includes work-integrated learning. Work placements, apprenticeships, industry-based projects and internships ensure students are work-ready when they graduate.
Across its six campuses, Ara’s dedicated tutors and non-academic staff support students throughout their study journey. A comprehensive range of student services - such as financial assistance, learning support, health and wellbeing services, accommodation, childcare and student events – contributes to the success of every student.
It also has six additional small community hubs which deliver free digital upskilling and personal development courses.