New Zealand Certificate in Apiculture (Queen Bee Rearing) (Level 4)
Program Overview
This online program in Queen Bee Rearing equips students with the skills to manage queen bee production and operation. Through block courses held across New Zealand, participants gain practical experience in queen bee biology, hive management, and business strategies. The program also includes hands-on training and an industry-approved American Foulbrood recognition course. Graduates are in high demand as the bee industry seeks to maintain genetic diversity and ensure food availability.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
This programme will teach you how to rear queen bees for a commercial bee product producer or to operate your own queen-rearing operation. You’ll be able to work independently or supervise others. Apiculture is one of New Zealand's fastest growing industries and apiarists are in high demand. This programme is taught online with block courses in a range of locations throughout New Zealand (see locations in 'What you study' area below). Graduates of this programme will be well-received by the industry, which needs a steady supply of quality queen bees to ensure the genetic diversity of existing and new hives. You'll be able to work independently and could supervise others.
Outline:
Block course locations
Cromwell, Central Otago (Bannockburn Road) Dunedin (Momona Hall) Hamilton (Fraser High School) Lincoln (Biological Husbandry Unit) Orewa, North Auckland (Hibiscus Coast Community House) Wellington (Newtown School)
Courses
| Course name | Course Description | Credits | |---|---|---| | Queen Bee Biology, Rearing and Breeding | This course will enable you to describe the biology, rearing and breeding of queen bees. | 15 | | 15 | | 15 |
Workload
As a part-time student, you should aim to undertake around 15 hours of study per week throughout the programme. This will include workshops, online learning and discussions, reading textbooks, doing assessments, practical work in your own time and the completion of an apiary diary. Online learning - one evening class per fortnight (7.00pm-9.00pm) Practical weekend workshops once per month (9.00am-5.00pm, Sat and Sun) - see locations in What you study section Followed by a practical 10 days later on a Tues evening (5.30pm-7.30pm)
Careers:
Graduates of this programme can further their learning with the New Zealand Certificate in Apiculture (Level 4) or other qualifications in small business management.
Other:
You must be physically capable of meeting the demands of the programme and will need to disclose any medical conditions which may affect your ability to participate. If English is not your first language, you must provide: New Zealand University Entrance OR Overall Academic IELTS 5.5 with no individual 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 NZQA proficiency table and here for list of recognised proficiency tests). Please note: You will be expected to complete an industry-approved American Foulbrood recognition and destruction course before you graduate from this programme.
"Fees $1,451
- Approximate full qualification tuition fee Delivery Online with block course(s) Location Multi-location Intakes September"
Otago Polytechnic
Overview:
Otago Polytechnic is a tertiary education institution located in New Zealand. It offers a wide range of qualifications and courses, from certificates to doctorates, across various fields. The institution emphasizes hands-on learning, providing students with practical skills and experience relevant to their chosen careers.
Services Offered:
Otago Polytechnic offers a variety of services to support students, including:
Accessibility and disability services:
Support for students with disabilities.Campus tours:
Guided tours of the institution's campuses.Accommodation assistance:
Guidance on finding accommodation options, including on-campus housing, flatting, homestay, and renting.Career advice:
Support in exploring career options and developing career plans.Fees and funding information:
Information on tuition fees and available funding options, including scholarships and government schemes.International student support:
Specific services and resources for international students, including information on English language requirements, entry requirements, and international partnerships.Māori and Pasifika culture and support:
Resources and support for Māori and Pasifika students.Student support services:
A range of services to assist students with their academic and personal well-being.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Otago Polytechnic provides a welcoming and inclusive learning environment with a focus on student support. Students can expect:
Friendly and inclusive atmosphere:
A supportive and welcoming community.Modern facilities:
Access to state-of-the-art equipment and technology.Real-world experiences:
Opportunities to gain practical experience through internships, projects, and industry placements.Flexible study options:
A variety of learning formats, including on-campus, online, and blended learning.Sustainability initiatives:
A commitment to environmental sustainability.Rainbow Tick Certification:
A commitment to creating an inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ students and staff.Key Reasons to Study There:
Educational excellence:
High-quality teaching and a strong focus on student success.Hands-on learning:
Practical, skills-based learning that prepares students for the workforce.Personal growth and support:
A supportive environment with a range of services to assist students.Flexible study options:
A variety of learning formats to suit individual needs and preferences.Free fees and scholarships:
Opportunities to reduce or eliminate tuition costs.Academic Programs:
Otago Polytechnic offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Adventure & Tourism:
Programs in avalanche safety, bike mechanics, hospitality, outdoor education, snowsports, and tourism.Agriculture & Animal Healthcare:
Programs in animal care, avian wildlife, beekeeping, high-country farming, and veterinary nursing.Art:
Programs in ceramics, digital media and photography, and visual arts.Business:
Programs in accounting, administration, applied management, event management, human resources, professional development, and sales & marketing.Community Services:
Programs in addiction, disability support, Hauora Māori, mental health, and social services.Construction:
Programs in architecture, carpentry, construction management, and stonemasonry.Design:
Programs in architecture, communication design, digital media, fashion design, game design and development, and product design.Education & Culture:
Programs in English language, outdoor education, teaching, and Te Reo & Tikanga.Engineering:
Programs in civil, electrical, and mechanical engineering.Food & Hospitality:
Programs in brewing, cooking, culinary arts, and hospitality.Hair & Beauty:
Programs in beauty therapy and hairdressing.Health:
Programs in health pathways, massage therapy, mental health, midwifery, nursing, and occupational therapy.Horticulture:
Programs in amenity horticulture, arboriculture, fruit production, gardening, groundskeeping, nursery, and winemaking.Information Technology:
Programs in computing, game development, and information technology.Sport:
Programs in groundskeeping, gym & personal training, massage therapy, outdoor education, sport science, and snowsports.Trades & Pre-trades:
Programs in automotive, bike mechanics, carpentry, electrical trades, mechanical engineering, plumbing, and transport.Other:
Entry Requirements:
40 credits at NCEA Level 1, including 10 Literacy credits and 10 Numeracy credits, or New Zealand Certificate in Apiculture (Level 3), or Equivalent industry skills and knowledge. Special and discretionary admission is available. You must be physically capable of meeting the demands of the programme and will need to disclose any medical conditions which may affect your ability to participate.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
If English is not your first language, you must provide: New Zealand University Entrance OR Overall Academic IELTS 5.5 with no individual 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 NZQA proficiency table and here for list of recognised proficiency tests).
