Course details

New Zealand Certificate in Business (First Line Management)
NZQF Level 4

About the course

This programme is designed to equip employees with the capabilities to effectively manage teams and workflows, enhance productivity and foster success in any organisational setting. It covers: managing workflows; motivating and involving a team to achieve team objectives; communicating with team members and stakeholders; sustaining a productive workplace; leadership styles for effectiveness in different environments; professional and ethical behaviour; legislation and other external requirements; promoting an inclusive environment that values diversity. The programme comprises four, eight-week courses: Business Environment; Team Leadership; Managing Teams; Setting and Meeting Objectives. It’s delivered part-time over 32 weeks, so it can be studied while working. Delivery is via a blend of self-directed study and face-to-face classes (1 x 4-hour workshop per fortnight). For corporate groups of 10 to 20 people, workshops can be held either in the workplace (if in Christchurch, Timaru, Ashburton or Oamaru) or at one of our campuses. Dates and time can be tailored to suit the needs of your group. The full programme can be studied for $897, or you can select individual courses ($224.25 each) to suit your professional development needs. Fees-free may apply (find out here). Please note: this programme requires a minimum of 10 students to proceed.

Entry requirements

Overall IELTS 5.5 Academic 5.0 Listening 5.0 Reading 5.0 Writing 5.0 Speaking 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. 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. 40 credits NCEA Level 1, including 10 literacy credits and 10 numeracy credits OR New Zealand Certificate in Business (Introduction to Team Leadership) (Level 3) If you have undertaken examinations other than NCEA (e.g. International Baccalaureate, Cambridge Examination), Ara will assess your qualification for academic entry equivalency.

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.

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