Postgraduate Certificate in Applied Science

Your workload

This is a full-time programme of study and students are expected to complete 30-35 hours per week. This programme is taught with intensive blocks, online classes and industry placements.

Entry requirements

Minimum academic entry criteria 

• The Bachelor of Applied Science or an equivalent qualification at bachelor level in a related discipline, or equivalent documented professional experience. 

English Language requirements

• If English is not your first language, you must provide:
  • New Zealand University Entrance OR
  • Overall Academic IELTS 6.5 with no individual band score lower than 6.0 (achieved in one test completed in the last two years), OR
  • Acceptable alternative evidence of the required IELTS (see here for NZQA proficiency table and here for list of recognised proficiency tests).

If you need to improve your English Language skills, we offer a wide range of English programmes.

Additional criteria

• All applicants who are accepted must obtain a First Aid Certificate, and complete the requirements of the Children’s Act 2014 (including police vetting), prior to commencing classes.

Covid-19 vaccination 

• Placements are an integral part of this programme. You'll need to complete the practical elements of this qualification to successfully achieve it and some placement/work providers may want to see evidence of your vaccination status. Our objective is to support your success in whatever qualification you enrol in but this is also dependent on you meeting requirements set by third party placement providers. We cannot guarantee you a placement if you do not meet these requirements. 

Pathways into this programme

Applicants without a base degree need to discuss options with the programme teaching team. Please email ebsTOO@op.ac.nz 

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.

Additional costs

Learners are expected to purchase a uniform ($200) - this is important for industry placements. In addition it is suggested that you have your own laptop/tablet that you are able to bring with you.

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. These fees also don’t include additional costs or living costs.