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New Zealand Diploma in Applied Science (Level 5)

STARTS: February 2025
Madras Street

Meet the needs of an ever-expanding commercial science sector with STEM skills that you’ll use every day in the workplace.

This programme will equip you with skills required by the commercial science sector, which encompasses laboratories, manufacturing, food and product testing and quality management.

Course content is made up of a mix of practical skills that you’ll use every day and theory relating directly to the modern workplace. It’s designed to equip you to analyse, report and respond appropriately in an operational laboratory or other science-based workplace.

Areas this programme covers include chemistry, applied microbiology, how to work in professional teams, ethics and quality assurance with an emphasis on practical, hands-on skills. The focus of this programme is practical laboratory skills and transferable team skills required in every workplace.

Available part-time up to 3 years.

NCEA Level 2, which must include 14 credits in science

OR Level 4 qualification in science or relevant equivalent

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

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.

Overall IELTS 5.5 Academic or General

  • 5.0 Listening
  • 5.0 Reading
  • 5.0 Writing
  • 5.0 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 more

Career opportunities

This qualification leads to technician positions in medical laboratories, food testing, manufacturing and research. It will give you the skills to work in routine operational positions in science-related fields such as manufacturing and regulatory industries, field work, research and development.

Study pathways

This national qualification leads to the New Zealand Diploma in Applied Science (Level 6) and can lead to higher-level study in a wide range of science-related disciplines.

Recommended school subjects

  • Chemistry
  • Biology
  • Physical education
  • Mathematics
  • English-rich subjects

New Zealand Diploma in Applied Science (Level 5)

FULL-TIME - 1 Year

Meet the needs of an ever-expanding commercial science sector with STEM skills that you’ll use every day in the workplace.

Information
Type Diploma
Code NZ2552
Next Starts February 2025
May be available for Study Visa? Yes
Credits 120
Level 5
Additional Equipment/Fees Advised on enrolment
May be eligible for Studylink? Yes
Reference NZ2552-STP
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With an internationally-recognised Ara qualification, the world is your oyster. Our graduates can be found working and making a difference across the globe…

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Credit Recognition

If you have prior relevant experience or previous related study credits, you may be eligible for credit recognition towards this qualification.

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Documents

Area of Interest

Key Information for Students

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