Program Overview

Diploma in Cookery – Advanced Patisserie

Overview

Acquire advanced patisserie skills and take a leading role in commercial kitchen environments. During the course of this one-year programme, you'll acquire the advanced preparation, cookery, and presentation techniques to confidently plan and produce a wide range of complex dishes including hot and cold desserts, gateaux, and torten. You'll also learn effective methods for planning and monitoring workflow and supplies, and strategies for managing staff and operations to meet performance targets.

What will I study

• Culinary Management 1 (CKCM501) - 35 credits
• Culinary Management 2 (CKCM502) - 10 credits
• Patisserie Essentials 1 (CKPE501) - 25 credits
• Patisserie Essentials 2 (CKPE502) - 25 credits
• Patisserie Essentials 3 (CKPE503) - 25 credits

Pathway

Graduates with this qualification can add to their expertise by completing the Cookery strand of the New Zealand Diploma in Cookery (Advanced) (Level 5).

Details

• Type: Diploma
• Code: NZ2102
• Next Starts: January 2026
• May be available for Study Visa?: Yes
• International application close date: Please enquire
• Credits: 120
• Level: 5
• Additional Equipment/Fees: Advised before enrolment
• May be eligible for Studylink?: Yes
• May be eligible for Fees Free?: Yes
• Reference: NZ2102-PATI

Fees for 2025

• Domestic Fee: $8,085 - $8,995 per year
• International Fee: $26,000 per year
• Indicative Student Services Fee: $370.50 per year
• Valid To: December 31, 2025

Academic Requirements

• New Zealand Certificate in Cookery (Level 4) or equivalent
• If you have undertaken examinations other than NCEA (e.g. International Baccalaureate, Cambridge Examination), Ara will assess your qualification for academic entry equivalency.

Alternative Requirements

• Still want to study but don't meet the Academic 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?
• You do not need to provide additional evidence of English Language skills.

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.

Career opportunities

• This qualification will enable you to work as a senior chef in a range of professional kitchens.

Study pathways

• Graduates with this qualification can add to their expertise by completing the Cookery strand of the New Zealand Diploma in Cookery (Advanced) (Level 5).

Recommended school subjects

• English
• Maths
• Food technology

Credit Recognition

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