Program Overview

New Zealand Diploma in Audio Engineering and Production (Level 5) - Pending Approval

Overview

This course is designed to equip you with the expertise to capture, mix and reproduce sound for various applications including music, film and live events. This includes tracking; mixing, mastering and record production; DJing; live sound production and streaming; sound for film and TV; radio, including commercials; spoken word production including audio books and podcasts; audio and MIDI software and hardware design and engineering; sound production including sound design, game and multimedia audio and sonic arts; audiology; acoustic design.

What will I study

You’ll explore the physics of sound and learn techniques used in digital audio recording and manipulation. You’ll become fluent in the use of computer-based and linear recording systems and familiar with both digital and analogue mixing consoles.

As well as tutorials, demonstrations and workshops, you’ll undertake practical exercises like building a simple audio kitset.

Academic Requirements

To be admitted to this programme you must be at least 18 years of age on the date the programme starts, and meet one of the following requirements:

• NCEA Level 2
  • Minimum of 12 NCEA credits at Level 2 in each of the four approved subjects
  • 10 NCEA literacy credits at Level 2 or above, made up of:
    • 5 credits in reading
    • 5 credits in writing
• Have completed four years of secondary education.
• A recognised, relevant Level 4 qualification
• Preference will be given to applicants with NCEA Level 3, Merit of Excellence passes in Physics, Mathematics, and Music

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

Selection Criteria

Applicants may be required to attend an interview or if they live at some distance from the campus complete a telephone interview and must produce copies of applicable certificates or evidence of prior achievements before interviews

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

• Physics of Sound 1 (AEP501) - 15 credits
• Core Audio Practice (AEP502) - 15 credits
• Electronic Music Production 1 (AEP503) - 15 credits
• Applied Audio Engineering 1 (AEP504) - 15 credits
• Applied Audio Engineering 2 (AEP505) - 15 credits
• Electronic Music Production 2 (AEP506) - 15 credits
• Creative Arts Industry Studies 1 (CAS501) - 15 credits
• Contextual Studies 1 (CTX501) - 15 credits

Career Opportunities

This qualification will prepare you to work in commercial audio facilities with some supervision. Potential roles include audio producer, studio engineer, studio manager, mastering engineer, live sound technician, radio producer, stage technician or post-production specialist for film and television.

Study Pathways

This qualification can lead to the New Zealand Diploma in Audio Engineering and Production (Level 6) and the Bachelor of Music which are both available at Ara.

Programme Details

• Type: Diploma
• Code: NZ3422
• Next Starts: February 2026
• May be available for Study Visa: Yes
• Credits: 120
• Level: 5
• Available Part-time: Yes
• Reference: NZ3422-STRU

Credit Recognition

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