Program Overview

New Zealand Certificate in Music (Level 4)

Overview

Enhance your talent with performance skills and embark on a career in the music industry. Built mainly around the study and performance of contemporary rock and pop, this programme is designed to assist you to perform with confidence and find your place in the New Zealand music landscape. It covers music fundamentals, playing in a band, writing songs and recording, plus the study of the emergence of the contemporary music industry globally and in New Zealand. It is available both full-time and part-time.

What will I study

• Music Fundamentals 1 (CMUS401) - 15 credits
• Music Fundamentals 2 (CMUS402) - 15 credits
• Music Performance 1 (CMUS411) - 15 credits
• Music Performance 2 (CMUS412) - 15 credits
• Music Writing and Technology 1 (CMUS421) - 15 credits
• Music Writing and Technology 2 (CMUS422) - 15 credits
• Music Industry in Context 1 (CMUS431) - 15 credits
• Music Industry in Context 2 (CMUS432) - 15 credits

Pathway

This programme is an ideal preparation for the Bachelor of Music Arts, particularly if you don't have the equivalent of University Entrance academic qualifications to achieve that goal.

Details

• Type: Certificate
• Code: NZ3418
• Next Starts: February 2026
• May be available for Study Visa?: Yes
• International application close date: Received all year
• Credits: 120
• Level: 4
• May be eligible for Studylink?: Yes
• May be eligible for Fees Free?: Yes
• Reference: NZ3418-STRU

Fees for 2025

• Domestic Fee: $6,720 - $7,630 per year
• International Fee: $26,000 per year
• Indicative Student Services Fee: $370.50 per year
• Valid To: December 31, 2025

Academic Requirements

• 10 NCEA Level 1 literacy credits

Additional Requirements

• You must Attend an audition to assess: instrumental or vocal skills and ability, aural skills, basic musical theory skills, ability and potential to study 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

• A selection process will take place for this programme. This will be based on application information including the ability to play a musical instrument and/or sing competently and perform in front of others.

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

• Many of our graduates enjoy rewarding full-time careers as self-employed musicians, working in a host of venues, schools, theatre and at corporate functions.

Study pathways

• This programme is an ideal preparation for the Bachelor of Music Arts, particularly if you don't have the equivalent of University Entrance academic qualifications to achieve that goal.

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.