Bachelor of Information and Communication Technologies (Software Development Pathway)
Advance your existing skills in computing and broaden your employment opportunities in this fast-evolving field.
Our IT industry partners have significant input into the structure and content of this programme to ensure that what is being taught continually meets industry needs.
The first year covers a broad range of ICT topics that will provide you with a solid base of knowledge in software engineering (programming), hardware and networking, website development, IT tools and concepts and mathematics skills relevant to IT.
In years two and three you'll choose one of three specialist pathways: Information Systems, Networking and Infrastructure or Software Development. During this time you'll develop in-depth knowledge of your chosen area through a range of compulsory and elective courses.
You'll also develop skills in problem solving, critical thinking, analysis, team work, project management, time management, self-reliance and communication skills. There is a strong emphasis on practical skills and work-readiness, so wherever possible, theory is integrated and applied to practical tasks.
Many courses include group activities or group projects, as the ability to work as part of a team is strongly valued by employers.
In the final semester you'll put all of your acquired skills and knowledge into practice in a 45-credit capstone project (in most cases for a local business). The project is an excellent opportunity to equip yourself with real-world IT experience and to learn from industry people. It also results in a substantial piece of work with which to demonstrate your potential to prospective employers.
Part-time up to 5 years.
This leads to the Bachelor of Information and Communication Technologies.
Fees for 2024
Fees for 2025
New Zealand University Entrance: NCEA Level 3 (60 credits at level 3 and 20 credits at level 2 or higher) which must include:
- 14 credits at Level 3 in each of:
- mathematics or physics or statistics or accounting
- English or history or art history or classics or geography or economics
- One other subject from the list of approved subjects*
Literacy* - 10 credits at Level 2 or above, made up of 5 credits in reading, 5 credits in writing, and
Numeracy* - 10 credits at Level 1 or above (specified achievement standards, or unit standards 26623, 26626, 26627)
OR one of the following:
- New Zealand Diploma in Information Technology Technical Support Level 5
- New Zealand Diploma in Web Development and Design Level 5
- New Zealand Diploma in Networking Level 6
- New Zealand Diploma in Systems Administration Level 6
- OR New Zealand Certificate in Study and Career Preparation (Level 4) Ara Business and ICT Pathway or equivalent
Due to Covid-19 disruption, if you studied and achieved NCEA Level 3 during 2020, you only need 12 credits per Level 3 subject (i.e. total of 36 credits). Literacy and Numeracy requirements remain the same
If you have undertaken examinations other than NCEA (e.g. International Baccalaureate, Cambridge Examination), Ara will assess your qualification for academic entry equivalency.
* NZQA approved subjects: see http://www.nzqa.govt.nz/qualifications-standards/awards/university-entrance/
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.
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.
- 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.
- applicants who have achieved NCEA Level 3 University Entrance may be required to provide evidence of English Language skills.
Overall IELTS 6.0 Academic
- 5.5 Listening
- 5.5 Reading
- 5.5 Writing
- 5.5 Speaking
Funding assistance
If you face unexpected financial hardship during your studies, we have several funds that you can apply for. These are designed to enable you to continue your current course of study. We also have a wide range of scholarships and awards that can provide financial assistance.
Find out moreCareer opportunities
Employment prospects are very strong for IT graduates. Many companies are struggling to fill vacancies and are having to recruit overseas. Job opportunities in the IT sector are forecast to increase significantly in the next few years and the sector is regularly recognised as one of the highest paid in the country and globally. Job opportunities are not limited to IT companies as almost every business these days has IT needs and many non-IT businesses employ significant numbers of IT professionals. Depending on the specialist pathway followed, you might gain employment in roles such as business analyst, network manager, webmaster, IT support specialist, database administrator, test analyst, systems administrator, web developer, interactive media developer or software developer/programmer. As a new graduate you’re likely to start at a junior level but you can quickly advance to higher-level positions within a few years, especially in larger companies.
Study pathways
The Bachelor of Information and Communication Technologies provides entry to postgraduate ICT programmes at many tertiary institutes, and with strong grades in the BICT, you may also qualify for entry to a Masters’ degree at most universities in New Zealand. Ara is a participant in the SIGNAL ICT Graduate School, which offers a Master of Professional Practice to degree-qualified graduates.
Recommended school subjects
- English
- Mathematics
- Computing/ICT
Bachelor of Information and Communication Technologies (Software Development Pathway)
Advance your existing skills in computing and broaden your employment opportunities in this fast-evolving field.
| Information | |
|---|---|
| Type | Degree |
| Code | CH3866 |
| Next Starts | February 2025 |
| May be available for Study Visa? | Yes |
| Credits | 360 |
| Level | 7 |
| May be eligible for Studylink? | Yes |
| Available Part time | Yes |
| May be eligible for Fees Free? | Yes |
| Reference | CH3866-SOFT |
Fees for 2024
Fees for 2025
Placements or workplace assignments are an integral part of this programme. You don’t need to supply evidence of your Covid vaccination status to apply for or to study this programme but please be aware that some workplaces may require evidence from you that you are fully vaccinated for Covid before allowing you to complete work at their organisation. The number of organisations at which your placement or workplace assignment can be completed may be impacted, depending on your vaccination status.
With an internationally-recognised Ara qualification, the world is your oyster. Our graduates can be found working and making a difference across the globe…
MoreCredit Recognition
If you have prior relevant experience or previous related study credits, you may be eligible for credit recognition towards this qualification.
Find out moreDocuments
- Admission & Enrolment Form PDF, 426 KB
- International Application Form PDF, 363 KB
Area of Interest
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