Program Overview

New Zealand Diploma in Architectural Technology

Overview

Contribute to the shape of our built environment as an architectural technician. This programme will equip you with the essential knowledge and skills required to enter the architectural field as a technician working on domestic and commercial building projects.

What will I study

You'll learn how to produce working drawings and documentation for small and medium scale projects that meet with the requirements of New Zealand legislation, codes of practice and New Zealand and Australian standards. The emphasis is on building technology, sound construction detailing and communication.

Pathway

The programme includes professional practice, administration of contracts and theoretical knowledge for the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) Licensed Building Practitioner Scheme, Design 2.

Details

Fees for 2025

• International Fee: $26,000 per year
• Valid To: December 31, 2025

Academic Requirements

• A minimum of 50 NCEA credits at Level 2 and a minimum of 12 credits in NCEA mathematics (or Pangarau) Level 1 and 12 literacy credits at NCEA Level 1
• OR a relevant qualification at NZQF Level 4 or above
• OR a recognised equivalent

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?

• 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 6.0 Academic
  • 5.5 Listening
  • 5.5 Reading
  • 5.5 Writing
  • 5.5 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

• Level 5:
  • Introduction to Construction (CONS5001) - 15 credits
  • Materials and Structural Principles (CONS5002) - 15 credits
  • Environment (CONS5003) - 15 credits
  • Services (CONS5004) - 15 credits
  • Construction 1 Residential (CONS5005) - 15 credits
  • Drawing 1 (CONS5706) - 15 credits
  • Scoping and Preliminary Design 1 (CONS5707) - 15 credits
  • Documentation 1 (CONS5708) - 15 credits
• Level 6:
  • Construction 2 Commercial (CONS6001) - 15 credits
  • Contract Administration (CONS6702) - 15 credits
  • Design in the Built Environment (CONS6703) - 15 credits
  • Detailing (CONS6704) - 15 credits
  • Documentation 2 (CONS6705) - 15 credits
  • Scoping and Preliminary Design 2 (CONS6706) - 15 credits
  • Virtual Design and Construction (CONS6707) - 15 credits
  • Industry Project (CONS6708) - 15 credits

Career opportunities

As a graduate you'll be able to work as an architectural technician or technologist. With further training and/or experience you may be able to work as an architectural designer, architect, interior designer, urban designer, landscape architect, design manager or design consultant, or move into a related field such as construction or planning.

Study pathways

Your study options as a graduate of this programme include diplomas and degrees in architecture, design, construction management and quantity surveying. If you completed your diploma with a B+ average, you can transition to year two of the Bachelor of Architectural Studies via a course in drawing and design.

Recommended school subjects

• Mathematics
• English-rich subjects
• Art
• Design
• ICT
• Technology
• Graphics

Programme details

• Type: Diploma
• Code: NZ2416
• Next Starts: February 2026
• May be available for Study Visa?: Yes
• International application close date: 27 January for February start
• Credits: 240
• Level: 6
• Additional Equipment/Fees: $1,000
• May be eligible for Studylink?: Yes
• May be eligible for Fees Free?: Yes
• Reference: NZ2416-STRU

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.