Certificate of University Preparation – CertUniPrep

The Certificate of University Preparation will give you admission to Massey University and prepare you for undergraduate study.

Type of qualification

Certificate

Level of study

Pre-degree study NZQF level 4

Time to complete

6 months full-time (60 credits) Part-time available

Where you can study

• Auckland campus
• Distance and online
• Wellington campus
• Manawatū campus (Palmerston North)

International students

Open to international students on campus in New Zealand, or studying online outside New Zealand

Key dates

• Admission application due dates
• Course enrolment dates for accepted students
• Semester dates

Note:

• Creative Arts pathway based internally at the Wellington campus
• International students with intended pathways other than Creative Arts should seek to enrol in Foundation Certificate International – Accelerated (FCIA).
• You can take a maximum of two courses (30 credits) in Summer School.
• Not all pathways are available at all locations or in all modes.

Study a Certificate of University Preparation – CertUniPrep

Why do the Certificate of University Preparation?

If you narrowly missed gaining the academic requirements for admission to University, or are over 20 and have been out of study for some time, you can apply to enrol in the Certificate of University Preparation. Successful completion of this 1-semester qualification will give you admission to University and prepare you for undergraduate study.

If you have qualifications other than those listed in Massey University’s entrance requirements, you are welcome to apply for entry and your eligibility will be assessed.

On successful completion of the Certificate, you will be eligible for admission to unrestricted undergraduate qualifications at Massey University and other New Zealand universities.

A CertUniPrep is a good fit if you:

• have narrowly missed gaining university admission to undergraduate qualifications
• are a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident aged over 20 and keen to develop academic study skills

Entry requirements

Admission to Massey

All students must meet university entrance requirements to be admitted to the University.

Specific requirements

To enter the Certificate of University Preparation you will:

New Zealand or domestic students

You will meet the university admission requirements as specified, or shall have:

• completed Year 13 at a New Zealand secondary school, or equivalent, and
• have achieved at least 14 credits in at least 1 approved subject at NCEA Level 3 or above, or equivalent, and
• have achieved at least 10 credits in at least 2 other approved subjects at NCEA Level 3 or above, or equivalent, and
• have met the literacy and numeracy standards required for University Entrance, or equivalent.

International students

Eligible students with an intended pathway to College of Creative Arts qualifications can enrol in the Creative Arts pathway within the Certificate of University Preparation.

International students with intended pathways to other undergraduate qualifications will need to gain admission via this qualification:

• Foundation Certificate (International – Accelerated) (1 semester)

Prior learning, credit and exemptions

For information on prior learning, exemptions and transfer of credit or other questions:

• review the Recognition of Prior Learning regulations
• contact us through the Get advice button on this page.

English language skills

If you need help with your English language skills before you start university, see our English for Academic Purposes (EAP) courses.

Official regulations

To understand what you need to study and must complete to graduate read the official rules and regulations for this qualification.

You should read these together with all other relevant Statutes and Regulations of the University including the General Regulations for Undergraduate Degrees, Undergraduate Diplomas, Undergraduate Certificates, Graduate Diplomas and Graduate Certificates.

Returning students

To find information on the regulations for these qualifications go to the Massey University Calendar.

Please contact us through the Get advice button on this page if you have any questions.

Structure of the Certificate of University Preparation

The Certificate of University Preparation comprises four 15-credit courses, 2 of which are compulsory and focus on academic study and research skills. You choose 2 'pathway' courses from your area of academic interest.

Core courses

• Strategies for Undergraduate Success
• Critical Academic Skills

Pathway courses

Business pathway

• Foundation Communications
• Foundation Business Studies
• Foundation Analytical Thinking and Numeracy
• Academic Language and Writing 1
• Foundation Māori Culture

Humanities / Social Sciences pathway

• Foundation Māori Culture
• Foundation Communications
• Foundation Humanities
• Foundation Social Sciences
• Academic Language and Writing 1

Science pathway

• Foundation Analytical Thinking and Numeracy
• Foundation Applied Sciences
• Foundation Natural Sciences
• Academic Writing and Language 1
• Foundation Communications
• Foundation Māori Culture

Health pathway

• Foundation Māori Culture
• Foundation Communications
• Foundation Social Sciences
• Foundation Analytical Thinking and Numeracy
• Foundation Health Studies
• Academic Language and Writing 1

Creative Arts pathway

• Foundation Māori Culture
• Foundation Communications
• Academic Language and Writing 1
• Foundation Drawing
• Foundation Sound and Image
• Foundation Fabricate

Pathways and courses are subject to availability at each campus. Massey staff can help you with course advice through the Get advice button on this page.

If you are starting the qualification in Summer School it will take more than 1 semester to complete the qualification because enrolments are limited to a maximum of 2 courses (30 credits).

On successful completion of this Certificate, you will gain admission to the University and be eligible to enrol in an undergraduate study.

Courses and specialisations

Key terms

Courses

• Each qualification has its own specific set of courses. Some universities call these papers. You enrol in courses after you get accepted into Massey.

Course code

• Each course is numbered using 6 digits. The fourth number shows the level of the course. For example, in course , the fourth number is a 2, so it is a 200-level course (usually studied in the second year of full-time study).

Credits

• Each course is worth a number of credits. You combine courses (credits) to meet the total number of credits needed for your qualification.

Specialisations

• Some qualifications let you choose what subject you'd like to specialise in. Your major or endorsement is what you will take the majority of your courses in.

Credit summary

• 60 credits
  • Core compulsory courses – 30 credits
  • Pathway courses – 30 credits

Course planning key

Prerequisites

• Courses that need to be completed before moving onto a course at the next level. For example, a lot of 200-level courses have 100-level prerequisite courses.

Corequisites

• Courses that must be completed at the same time as another course are known as corequisite courses.

Restrictions

• Some courses are restricted against each other because their content is similar. This means you can only choose one of the offered courses to study and credit to your qualification.

Schedule A: Core courses

• Course code: Strategies for Undergraduate Success Credits: 15 credits An introduction to goal setting, life planning, and wellbeing in preparation for undergraduate studies.
• Course code: Critical Academic Skills Credits: 15 credits An introduction to critical thinking, reading, writing and numeracy skills essential for undergraduate studies.

Schedule B: Specific courses for Pathways

Business Pathway (Choose 30 credits from)

• Course code: Foundation Business Studies Credits: 15 credits An introduction to fundamental principles and theories in business studies. Additionally, the course aims to equip students with the ability to apply key foundation finance, marketing, management, economic and accounting concepts to practical scenarios, fostering their ability to analyse, interpret, and propose solutions in various contexts.
• Course code: Foundation Māori Culture Credits: 15 credits An introduction to the significance of Māori culture, including the principles and implications of biculturalism and Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
• Course code: Foundation Communications Credits: 15 credits An introduction to the skills necessary for successful communication both individually and in groups, and across a variety of contexts.
• Course code: Academic Language and Writing 1 Credits: 15 credits An introduction to the features of effective academic writing and their application for undergraduate studies.
• Course code: Foundation Analytical Thinking and Numeracy Credits: 15 credits An introduction to essential skills and knowledge in analytical thinking, numeracy, and algebra to effectively interpret, analyse, and solve problems across various academic disciplines and real-world contexts.

Humanities/Social Sciences Pathway (Choose 30 credits from)

• Course code: Foundation Māori Culture Credits: 15 credits An introduction to the significance of Māori culture, including the principles and implications of biculturalism and Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
• Course code: Foundation Communications Credits: 15 credits An introduction to the skills necessary for successful communication both individually and in groups, and across a variety of contexts.
• Course code: Academic Language and Writing 1 Credits: 15 credits An introduction to the features of effective academic writing and their application for undergraduate studies.
• Course code: Foundation Humanities Credits: 15 credits An introduction to humanities disciplines and subject areas through study of the underlying philosophies, concepts and perspectives of the humanities.
• Course code: Foundation Social Sciences Credits: 15 credits An introduction to the concepts, methods and scope of the Social Sciences through study of contemporary social issues in Aotearoa/ New Zealand and in global contexts.

Science Pathway (Choose 30 credits from)

• Course code: Foundation Māori Culture Credits: 15 credits An introduction to the significance of Māori culture, including the principles and implications of biculturalism and Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
• Course code: Foundation Communications Credits: 15 credits An introduction to the skills necessary for successful communication both individually and in groups, and across a variety of contexts.
• Course code: Academic Language and Writing 1 Credits: 15 credits An introduction to the features of effective academic writing and their application for undergraduate studies.
• Course code: Foundation Analytical Thinking and Numeracy Credits: 15 credits An introduction to essential skills and knowledge in analytical thinking, numeracy, and algebra to effectively interpret, analyse, and solve problems across various academic disciplines and real-world contexts.
• Course code: Foundation Applied Sciences Credits: 15 credits An introduction to the core principles and methodologies in mathematics, chemistry, and physics, equipping students with the necessary knowledge, skills, and interdisciplinary perspectives to succeed in their future undergraduate studies.
• Course code: Foundation Natural Sciences Credits: 15 credits An introduction to areas within natural sciences by providing a foundational understanding of the interactions between biology, chemistry, and the environment, and fostering the development of essential skills for understanding current issues including climate change, invasive species, sustainable practices and protecting native environments.

Health Pathway (Choose 30 credits from)

• Course code: Foundation Māori Culture Credits: 15 credits An introduction to the significance of Māori culture, including the principles and implications of biculturalism and Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
• Course code: Foundation Communications Credits: 15 credits An introduction to the skills necessary for successful communication both individually and in groups, and across a variety of contexts.
• Course code: Academic Language and Writing 1 Credits: 15 credits An introduction to the features of effective academic writing and their application for undergraduate studies.
• Course code: Foundation Health Studies Credits: 15 credits A multidisciplinary introduction to factors that affect the health and wellbeing of ourselves and our communities. Suitable for students transitioning into discipline areas that require a broad understanding of the fundamentals of health.
• Course code: Foundation Social Sciences Credits: 15 credits An introduction to the concepts, methods and scope of the Social Sciences through study of contemporary social issues in Aotearoa/ New Zealand and in global contexts.
• Course code: Foundation Analytical Thinking and Numeracy Credits: 15 credits An introduction to essential skills and knowledge in analytical thinking, numeracy, and algebra to effectively interpret, analyse, and solve problems across various academic disciplines and real-world contexts.

Creative Arts Pathway (Choose 30 credits from)

• Course code: Foundation Māori Culture Credits: 15 credits An introduction to the significance of Māori culture, including the principles and implications of biculturalism and Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
• Course code: Foundation Communications Credits: 15 credits An introduction to the skills necessary for successful communication both individually and in groups, and across a variety of contexts.
• Course code: Academic Language and Writing 1 Credits: 15 credits An introduction to the features of effective academic writing and their application for undergraduate studies.
• Course code: Foundation Drawing Credits: 15 credits In this course students are introduced to working in a creative arts studio to develop skills in a variety of hand drawing and computer aided methods and materials. The drawing techniques taught will enable students to use drawing as a mode to generate, record and develop creative ideas.
• Course code: Foundation Sound and Image Credits: 15 credits In this course students will be introduced to working in a creative studio environment, learning techniques and processes which will enable them to create their own video project. Students will be guided to set their own brief, developing initially from their own soundtrack and storyboard plan.
• Course code: Foundation Fabricate Credits: 15 credits In this course students will be guided in the process of creating a character profile. Students will engage with ideation and analysis in developing their creative work. Students will work in a creative studio environment and be introduced to model-making, industrial sewing and 3D printing to develop a costume element, prop or character bust model.

Fees and scholarships

2026 tuition fees

• Domestic students: $3,707
• International students: $15,400

Tuition fees are estimates only. The exact fees charged will depend on which courses you select at the time of enrolment. The estimates are for full-time study (60 credits). Fees are in New Zealand dollars and include Goods and Services Tax (GST).

The estimates do not include the Student Services Fee. This fee is $582 for on-campus students and $474 for distance students for full-time study (60 credits). For more information about this fee and other fees you may need to pay, see non-tuition fees.

There may also be charges for things such as study resources, software, trips and contact workshops.

Course fees

You can view fees for the courses that make up your qualification on the course details pages.

Student loans (StudyLink) and Fees Free scheme

You may be eligible for a student loan to help towards paying your fees.

The Certificate of University Preparation is not eligible for fees free as it is not considered an official qualification.

Scholarship and award opportunities

Search our scholarships and awards

Fees disclaimer

This information is for estimation purposes only. Actual fees payable will be finalised on confirmation of enrolment. Unless otherwise stated, all fees shown are quoted in New Zealand dollars and include Goods and Services Tax, if any. Before relying on any information on these pages you should also read the University's Disclaimer Notice.

Accreditations and rankings

QS 5+ star rating

Massey was awarded 5+ stars by QS for the third consecutive time. This rating highlights our strengths independent of rankings. We received 5 stars in each of the 9 assessed categories: employability, environmental impact, facilities, global engagement, inclusiveness, innovation & knowledge transfer, online learning, research & teaching. This includes 5 stars in the subject of Veterinary Science.

Related study options

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Qualification

• Credits: 120
• Location: Auckland campus, Distance and online, Wellington campus, Manawatū campus (Palmerston North)

Successful completion of this qualification will give you admission to New Zealand universities and prepare you for undergraduate study.

Foundation Certificate (International - Accelerated) – FCert(IntAcc)

Qualification

• Credits: 60
• Location: Auckland campus

The Foundation Certificate (International – Accelerated) will help you prepare for undergraduate study by helping to increase your English and academic skills.

Foundation Certificate (International) – FCert(Int)

Qualification

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This qualification will help you prepare for undergraduate study by improving your English and academic skills.

Postgraduate Certificate in Intelligence – PGCertIntel

Qualification

• Credits: 60
• Location: Distance and online

Gain an advanced understanding of the roles, functions, and processes of intelligence to get a critical understanding of the ethical and professional issues involved in its practice.

Postgraduate Certificate in International Security – PGCertIntlSy

Qualification

• Credits: 60
• Location: Distance and online

Study key topics in international security with Massey's Postgraduate Certificate in International Security.

Without Specialisation – Graduate Certificate in Arts

Specialisation

• Location: Auckland campus, Distance and online, Wellington campus, Manawatū campus (Palmerston North)

Inspire people, shape policy, solve problems, create new ways of thinking, and transform the world. You can study Massey’s Graduate Certificate in Arts without completing a second bachelor’s degree.

Without Specialisation – Diploma in Arts

Specialisation

• Location: Auckland campus, Distance and online, Manawatū campus (Palmerston North)

With Massey’s Diploma in Arts, you can study what you enjoy and explore subject areas that spark your interest.

Without Specialisation – Graduate Diploma in Arts

Specialisation

• Location: Auckland campus, Distance and online, Wellington campus, Manawatū campus (Palmerston North)

Learn to be a critical thinker, problem-solver, and inspire people with Massey's Graduate Diploma in Arts.

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Certificate of University Preparation (CertUniPrep) - Massey University

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Degree Overview:

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The Certificate of University Preparation (CertUniPrep) is a six-month, pre-university program designed to help students who narrowly missed university admission requirements, are over 20 and out of study for a while, or have qualifications different from those listed in Massey University's entrance requirements.

Successful completion of this program grants admission to the University and prepares students for undergraduate study.

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Objectives:

• Equip students with the necessary academic study and research skills for successful university study.
• Enhance university admission chances for students who narrowly missed meeting entrance requirements.

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Program Description:

The CertUniPrep consists of four 15-credit courses, including two compulsory courses on academic study and research skills and two elective courses chosen from a student's area of academic interest. The program offers pathways in Business, Humanities/Social Sciences, Science, Health, and Creative Arts.

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Outline:

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Course Structure:

• Four 15-credit courses
• Two compulsory courses:
• Study Skills and Strategies
(192042)
• Critical Academic Skills
(192043)
• Two elective courses chosen from:
• Business Pathway:
115013, 115014, 115015, 192011, 247005
• Humanities/Social Sciences Pathway:
115014, 150001, 192011, 230001, 230002
• Science Pathway:
247004, 247005, 247006, 247007, 247008
• Health Pathway:
150001, 192011, 214003, 230002, 247005
• Creative Arts Pathway:
150001, 192011, 293001, 293002, 293003

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Typical Pattern:

• Semester 1:
• Study Skills and Strategies (192042)
• Critical Academic Skills (192043)
• One Academic Pathway elective course
• One Academic Pathway elective course

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Assessment:

Assessment methods may vary depending on the chosen electives. However, common assessment methods include:

• Assignments
• Tests
• Exams
• Presentations
• Portfolios

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Teaching:

The program utilizes a variety of teaching methods, including:

• Lectures
• Seminars
• Tutorials
• Workshops
• Online resources
The faculty includes experienced academics and professionals with expertise in their respective fields. The program utilizes a student-centered approach, encouraging active participation and individual support.

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Careers:

Successful completion of the CertUniPrep opens doors to various undergraduate pathways and potential career opportunities within those chosen pathways.

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Other:

• The program is available at Massey University campuses in Auckland, Wellington, and Manawatū (Palmerston North), as well as through Distance and online learning.
• Students can complete the program in one semester (full-time) or up to two years (part-time).
• The program can be a good fit for students who wish to develop academic study skills, have narrowly missed university admission requirements, or are over 20 with an interest in undergraduate studies.

Massey University of New Zealand - Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa

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Overview:

Massey University is a research-led university in New Zealand, known for its excellence in innovation and the creation of new knowledge. It offers a wide range of academic programs and support services to students.

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Services Offered:

Massey University provides a variety of support services to students, including: *

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Academic support:

Guidance and resources for academic success. *

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Student life services:

Support for personal well-being, career development, and social engagement. *

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Māori @ Massey:

Dedicated services and resources for Māori students. *

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Pacific Massey:

Support and resources for Pacific students.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Research-led institution:

Massey University is known for its strong research focus and commitment to innovation.

Diverse student body:

The university welcomes students from various backgrounds and cultures.

Supportive environment:

Massey provides a range of services and resources to help students succeed.

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Other:

Distance and online study:

Massey offers a wide range of distance and online study options.

Alumni network:

The university has a strong alumni network that provides support and connections for graduates.