New Zealand Certificate in Horticulture Production (Fruit Production) (Level 4) - on campus
Learn on campus at our ten-hectare crop production facility where wine grapes and cherries are grown. Enjoy a 50-50 mix of theoretical and practical studies, and undertake work experience within Central Otago's extensive horticulture industry.
Domestic
July
About the programme
Further develop the fundamental skills and knowledge required of horticulturists in orchards or vineyards while you work.
A 50/50 mix of theoretical and practical studies, this on-campus programme is for domestic students only.
Employment opportunities are extremely diverse in the fruit production industry and, with motivation and hard work, you may find yourself working as an irrigation technician, fruit grower, vineyard supervisor or even at the head of your own business. This qualification will help you take the next step up.
We also offer this programme as an online, work-based qualification - find out more.
What You Study
This qualification is a 50-50 mix of theoretical and practical studies. Your learning will be based at our ten-hectare crop production facility where wine grapes and cherries are grown.
You will also undertake work experience within Central Otago's extensive horticulture industry, enabling you to develop real-world skills and forge important relationships.
Courses
- Viticulture Canopy Management (15 credits)
- Orchard Canopy Management (15 credits)
- Soils and Water (15 credits)
- Seasonal Tasks (15 credits)
- Plant Science (15 credits)
- Machinery, Tools and Equipment (10 credits)
- Communication (10 credits)
Further study options
Advance your knowledge with our Level 5 Fruit Production programme.
Workload
Your workload will vary but will be about three days per week on campus.
Entry
Skills needed to work in this area
- An enjoyment of working outdoors
- Physical fitness
- Planning and organisational skills
- Good communication skills
- An eye for detail.
Entry requirements
- Open entry
English Language requirements
- If English is not your first language, you must provide:
- New Zealand University Entrance OR
- Overall Academic IELTS 5.5 (academic, no band score lower than 5.0) achieved in one test completed in the last two years, OR
- Acceptable alternative evidence of the required IELTS (see here for internationally recognised proficiency tests and proficiency outcomes for international students).
If you need to improve your English language skills, we offer a wide range of English programmes.
Selection process
Applicants will be processed as they are received. If the number of applications exceeds the number of places available, applicants will be placed on a waiting list in the order that they applied.
Want your existing skills recognised?
If you have extensive knowledge and skills due to practical experience in this area, please ask us about our recognition of prior learning process. You may have already gained credits towards this qualification and could achieve it in a shorter timeframe. Please email info@op.ac.nz or call 0800 762 786.
Fees
Domestic fees
Funding help
As this programme is part-time, students generally aren't eligible for student loans or allowances to cover additional costs or living costs. But, some help may be possible depending on your circumstances. Check the Studylink website for more information.
If you have any questions about student loans and allowances, please email our Studylink Advisor: Amanda.McAra@op.ac.nz
If you're eligible, you may be able to get further tuition fee cover through the Fees Free scheme.
Tuition fees
The tuition fees shown above are approximate only. There may be a slight fee increase per year once Tertiary Education Commission (TEC) rules and guidelines are applied.
Student Services Fee
For most students, your tuition fee shown above includes a Student Services Fee – also known as the Student Levy. This compulsory fee covers your access to the student services we offer. This cost is tailored depending on how you're studying.
The international tuition fee does not include your Student Levy. This will be calculated when you enrol with us.
Click below to find out more about the Student Levy costs and services provided.
Fees Free
The Government has announced that Fees Free for the first year of study or training will finish at the end of 2024. A final-year Fees Free policy will replace it, starting from 1 January 2025.
If you are a first-time tertiary learner in 2025, you may be able to get Fees Free for your final year of study or training. If you are eligible, you will need to apply for your entitlement through IRD from 2026 onwards.
For more information about the transition from first-year Fees Free or the final-year Fees Free policy, visit FeesFree.govt.nz.
