This course is not currently available.

Course details

Graduate Diploma in Computer Aided Design
NZQF Level 7

About the course

Further your expertise to meet the demand for CAD professionals in the architecture, engineering and manufacturing sectors.

Our one year qualification will provide the learning to allow you to apply broad knowledge of CAD tools, concepts and practices to provide effective CAD project outcomes. You will complete a combination of courses which provide you with skills and knowledge in:

  • Broad CAD fundamentals
  • Applied practical skills and knowledge
  • CAD system and CAD project management
  • Research and critical analysis

Throughout the year, you will enhance your work readiness through project and problem based learning where you will develop your broad based skills and knowledge in the area of CAD developing processes to ensure that CAD projects are executed effectively.

You will acquire research and evaluation expertise with real world projects where you will work independently and in teams.

You will also use effective written and oral communication for successful CAD outcomes.

Entry requirements

Academic requirements

A Bachelor's degree

or

A Level 7 qualification in a field involving technical design (not including the Diploma in Computer Aided Design Level 6)

or

If you have undertaken examinations other than NCEA (e.g. International Baccalaureate, Cambridge Examination), Ara will assess your qualification for academic entry equivalency.

Alternative requirements

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. Contact Ara for advice.

Additional requirements
English 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 .

or

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, Pearson 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.

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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