New Zealand Diploma in Arts and Design
Enhance your skills to establish yourself as a creative professional.
With this diploma you’ll develop core skills in problem solving and idea generation in a range of methods and materials. You'll also become familiar with using digital technology for creative work.
This diploma is the ideal pathway to the Bachelor of Design where you can further refine your skill for a career.
Fees for 2024
Fees for 2025
NCEA Level 2
OR New Zealand Certificate in Arts and Design (Level 4)
OR New Zealand Certificate in Creativity (Level 4)
OR New Zealand Certificate in Digital Media Design (Level 4)
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.
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
This programme is primarily designed to develop your skills and provide a pathway to a personal art practice. Upon successful completion of the diploma, you may choose to engage in further study, or spend time developing your own visual art.
Study pathways
This programme will equip you for further study at higher levels. Entry to the Ara Bachelor of Design at second year level will be an option for students with a sufficient level of success in the Diploma
Recommended school subjects
- English
- Visual arts
- Design
- Photography
- Art history
New Zealand Diploma in Arts and Design (Level 5)
Enhance your skills to establish yourself as a creative professional.
| Information | |
|---|---|
| Type | Diploma |
| Code | NZ2636 |
| Next Starts | February 2025 |
| May be available for Study Visa? | Yes |
| International application close date | Received all year |
| Credits | 120 |
| Level | 5 |
| May be eligible for Studylink? | Yes |
| May be eligible for Fees Free? | Yes |
| Reference | NZ2636-STRU |
Fees for 2024
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
Area of Interest
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