New Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment Pathways (Level 4)

NMIT is part of Te Pūkenga

This means that you will now graduate with a Te Pūkenga qualification. Read more
Locations and dates

Marlborough:

14 July 2025

Health Strand

Nelson:

17 February 2025

Health Strand

14 July 2025

Counselling and Social Work Strand

14 July 2025

Health Strand
Length

19 weeks full-time including 2 weeks of study breaks
Total credits

60
Fees

2025: $3,044 plus $130 Student Services Levy

A Compulsory Student Services Levy applies (2024; $2.05 per credit).

Fees listed are for each year of the programme, indicative only and may vary with course selection.

View course details for individual fees.
National qualification code

NZ2860

Ready to start or refocus your learning journey? This programme provides essential skills and confidence for further study or career opportunities.

This programme is designed to be your launchpad, whether you’re stepping into higher education for the first time or returning to study. Here, you’ll gain the core skills needed to succeed academically and the confidence to pursue fields like nursing, social sciences, and counselling.

Many students call this certificate their "head start." It’s more than just a qualification; it’s an opportunity to find your footing, reconnect with your potential, and step forward with purpose. In a warm, supportive environment, you’ll learn study techniques that make learning feel achievable and academic writing skills that will help you clearly express your ideas. Our approach to learning celebrates each person’s unique background, providing a welcoming space where every learner feels encouraged and respected.

You’ll build skills that open doors to higher learning and new career pathways, supported every step of the way by a community dedicated to your growth. Whether your goal is to gain confidence, explore a new field, or simply see what’s possible, NMIT is here to help you chart your course.

This programme offers two pathway options to help tailor your learning:

🩺 The Hauora Pathway

Health

This pathway will prepare you for applying for the Bachelor of Nursing or other degrees or diplomas related to Health.

🧠 Te Hāpai Hāpori Pathway

Counselling and Social Work

This pathway will prepare you for the Paetahi Tumu Kōrero Bachelor of Counselling , Bachelor of Social Work , or a degree or diploma related to Counselling, Social Work, or working with communities.

What courses make up the pathways?

This certificate comprises 60 credits, including two compulsory 15-credit courses:

Skills for Successful Tertiary Study (C)
Building Communication Competence (C)

Depending on your pathway, you’ll select two additional courses (15 credits each):

Hauora Pathway: Introduction to Health Studies and The Biophysical Basis of Health
Te Hāpai Hāpori Pathway: Introduction to the Counselling Profession and Introduction to the Social Work Profession

We’ll work with you after application to choose the courses that best align with your goals.

Hear from our graduate

"I was hesitant about the prep course, thinking it was just for younger people. But it really helped me focus on studying, covering referencing and nursing science. It gave me a head start, and I think it should be compulsory for everyone."

— Biddy Mason, Study and Employment Pathways Graduate and Current Bachelor of Nursing Student

Entry requirements

Academic requirements

A minimum of 40 credits NCEA Level 2 across four subjects including;

- Literacy – 10 credits at Level 2 or above

- Numeracy – 10 credits at Level 1 or above

New Zealand Certificate in Study and Career Preparation (Level 3)

If you have undertaken a qualification or examination other than NCEA (e.g. International Baccalaureate, Cambridge Examination), NMIT will assess this for academic entry equivalency.

Alternative Entry

Applicants who are unable to evidence that they meet Academic Entry Requirements, but who can demonstrate acquired skills for tertiary study gained through study, work and/or life experience, may be approved for alternative entry. This may include Recognition of Prior Learning. Contact NMIT for advice.

English language requirements

If English is not the applicant’s first language they will need to provide a result from a test or qualification on the acceptable alternatives English Proficiency Outcomes Chart.(external link)

Applicants who do not have evidence of English language skills and are a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident, may contact NMIT for an assessment.

• IELTS 5.5 Academic (no lower than 5.0 in any subtest)

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