New Zealand Certificate in Information Technology Essentials
Gain a broad range of computing skills to set you on a path to a career in IT.
The programme covers a broad range of computing topics at an introductory level. These include hardware, operating systems, networking and security, user experience, website design and development, information systems, and software design and development. You'll also gain knowledge of professional, ethical and legal principles and practices, and you'll develop your communication skills.
Fees for 2025
40 credits NCEA Level 1, including 10 literacy credits and 10 numeracy credits
OR New Zealand Certificate in Computing (Intermediate User) 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.
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
- 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 moreCareer opportunities
Intended as a stepping stone towards a career in IT, this qualification will position you well for further higher level IT study. It will enhance your CV and provide you with transferable skills and knowledge that you can apply in a range of entry level support roles, however it isn't likely to be sufficient preparation for most IT-specific jobs.
Study pathways
After gaining this qualification you can move on to the Diploma in IT Technical Support (Level 5) or the Diploma in Web Development and Design (Level 5). Alternatively, if you achieve high grades across all courses in the certificate you may be able to progress directly to the Bachelor of Information and Communications Technology.
Recommended school subjects
- English
- Maths
- Computing/ICT/Digital Technologies
New Zealand Certificate in Information Technology Essentials (Level 4)
Gain a broad range of computing skills to set you on a path to a career in IT.
| Information | |
|---|---|
| Type | Certificate |
| Code | NZ2594 |
| Next Starts | February 2025 |
| May be available for Study Visa? | Yes |
| International application close date | 20 January for February start; 23 June for July start |
| Credits | 60 |
| Level | 4 |
| Additional Equipment/Fees | Advised on enrolment |
| May be eligible for Studylink? | Yes |
| Available Part time | Yes |
| May be eligible for Fees Free? | Yes |
| Reference | NZ2594-STRU |
Fees for 2025
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
- Computing Pathways PDF, 43 KB
Area of Interest
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