Program Overview

New Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment (Level 4) Pre Health Pathway

Overview

This programme covers a variety of subjects including human and microbial biology, cell biology and chemistry, maths and skills for academic study. It is a pathway for the following programmes:

• Bachelor of Nursing
• Bachelor of Midwifery
• Bachelor of Medical Imaging
• Bachelor of Musculoskeletal Health
• Bachelor of Applied Science (in all three strands)

All courses within this programme are available in Christchurch, Timaru and online. Available part-time up to 2 years.

What will I study

• Mastering Calculations - Pre Health (CSEP410, 15 credits)
• Cell Biology and Chemistry (CSEP420, 15 credits)
• Human Body and Microbial Science (CSEP421, 15 credits)
• Literacy Skills for Study and Employment (CSEP430, 15 credits)

Pathway

Successful completion of this qualification doesn’t guarantee entry to the pathway’s destination programme of study. Entry requirements still apply and selection for some destination programmes is highly competitive.

Details

• Type: Certificate
• Code: NZ2860
• Next Starts: February 2026
• Credits: 60
• Level: 4
• May be eligible for Studylink: Yes
• Available Part time: Yes
• Reference: NZ2860-HPC

Fees for 2025

• Domestic Fee: $3,870 - $3,900 per year
• Indicative Student Services Fee: $370.50 per year

Academic Requirements

• 40 credits NCEA Level 2, including 10 Level 1 Literacy credits and 10 Level 1 Mathematic credits (with a strength in Algebra for the Engineering and Construction and ICT Pathways and Numeracy for other pathways)
• OR New Zealand Certificate in Study and Career Preparation (Level 3)
• OR New Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment (Level 3)

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.

Selection Criteria

Applicants who meet the entry requirements will be accepted into the programme in the order that completed applications are received.

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.

Credit Recognition

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

Area of Interest

• Health
• Health Promotion, Nutrition, Sport and Exercise