Program Overview

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New Zealand Certificate in Commercial Barbering

Overview

Master the art of barbering for a career in an expanding sector. Taught by barbering experts, this heavily practical programme will equip you with detailed knowledge and skills to be able to work in the ever-growing barbering industry. It combines a focus on elements of traditional and contemporary fashion styles with an understanding of the origins and influences of this vocation.

What Will I Study

The programme covers classic and modern barbering techniques, small hair detail, scissor skills, clipper and fade work including traditional wet shaves, plus professional ethics and standards. You'll study the latest industry fashion trends and develop your own style in this exciting industry.

You'll also learn about health and safety requirements, front-of-house operations and discover how to enhance your social media capabilities in order to attract a regular clientele. Our on-site barber shop represents a real-life industry environment where you'll build your skills and capabilities as a professional commercial barber. Each cut is preparation for you working autonomously as a fully qualified barber in a variety of commercial settings.

Pathway

As a graduate of this programme you can pathway into another hairdressing qualification or head straight into employment where you can continue to develop your barbering skills and techniques on the job.

Details

• Type: Certificate
• Code: NZ2115
• Next Starts: February 2026
• May be available for Study Visa?: Yes
• International application close date: Received All Year
• Credits: 120
• Level: 4
• Additional Equipment/Fees: Advised on enrolment
• May be eligible for Studylink?: Yes
• May be eligible for Fees Free?: Yes
• Reference: NZ2115-STRU

Fees for 2025

• Domestic Fee: $7,400 - $8,315 per year
• Indicative Student Services Fee: $370.50 per year
• Valid To: December 31, 2025

Academic Requirements

• 40 credits at NCEA Level 1, including 10 Literacy credits and 10 Numeracy credits; or a recognised equivalent;
• OR a relevant qualification at NZQF Level 2 or above;
• OR a recognised equivalent qualification

Alternative 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.

English Requirements

• 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?: 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.

Core Courses

• Professional Identity: PERS4101, 15 credits
• Industry Practice: PERS4102, 15 credits
• Barbering Skills: PERS4103, 15 credits
• Barbering Influences: PERS4104, 15 credits
• Facial Grooming: PERS4105, 15 credits
• Cut and Finish: PERS4106, 15 credits
• The Barber's Chair: PERS4107, 15 credits
• Grand Finale: PERS4108, 15 credits

Career Opportunities

As a graduate of this programme you can pathway into another hairdressing qualification or head straight into employment where you can continue to develop your barbering skills and techniques on the job.

Study Pathways

Further study options include the New Zealand Certificate in Hairdressing (Salon Support), followed by the New Zealand Certificate in Hairdressing (Emerging Stylist).

Recommended School Subjects

• English
• Maths
• Science

COVID-19 Vaccination Information

Placements or workplace assignments are an integral part of this programme. You don’t need to supply evidence of your Covid vaccination status to apply for or to study this programme but please be aware that some workplaces may require evidence from you that you are fully vaccinated for Covid before allowing you to complete work at their organisation. The number of organisations at which your placement or workplace assignment can be completed may be impacted, depending on your vaccination status.

Credit Recognition

If you have prior relevant experience or previous related study credits, you may be eligible for credit recognition towards this qualification.