Program Overview

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New Zealand Certificate in DJ and Music Production (Level 4) - Pending Approval

Overview

This course is an opportunity to immerse yourself in electronic music in the drum and bass capital of New Zealand. It will equip you with the skills needed to thrive in the music industry as a DJ or music producer.

What will I study

You’ll learn about the physics of sound, DJ fundamentals, audio practice, electronic music production, audio engineering, and the creative arts industries. During your studies you’ll become proficient using industry standard software and hardware, learn production and DJ techniques, and gain business skills and industry knowledge.

The course includes experiential sessions, simulations, role play and projects.

Academic Requirements

To be admitted to this programme all applicants must meet one of the following requirements:

• Minimum of 12 NCEA credits at Level 1 in each of the four approved subjects.
• Also refer to the English Language requirements below.
• A recognised, relevant Level 3 qualification.
• Preference will be given to applicants with NCEA Level 2, Merit of Excellence passes in Physics, Mathematics, and Music.
• Consideration will be given to akonga who progress through other TPP/MAINZ/SIT/ARA programme pathways (e.g. Foundation Sound and Music).

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.

• NZQA approved subjects: see

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.

IELTS 5.5 General or Academic (with no band score lower than 5.0).

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

• Creative Industry Studies 1 (CIS401) - 15 credits
• Creative Industry Studies 2 (CIS402) - 15 credits
• DJ Fundamentals (DJEMP401) - 15 credits
• Advanced DJing (DJEMP402) - 15 credits
• Electronic Music Production 1 (DJEMP403) - 15 credits
• Electronic Music Production 2 (DJEMP404) - 15 credits
• DJEMP Music Theory (DJEMP405) - 15 credits
• Electronic Music Performance 1 (MUS409) - 15 credits

Career opportunities

This qualification will prepare you for employment or self-employment as a DJ or electronic music producer or artist.

Study pathways

You can follow up this qualification with the New Zealand Diploma in Audio Engineering and Production (Level 5), or the Bachelor of Music, which are both available at Ara.

Programme details

• Type: Certificate
• Code: NZ3414
• Next Starts: February 2026
• May be available for Study Visa?: Yes
• Credits: 120
• Level: 4
• May be eligible for Studylink?: Yes
• Reference: NZ3414-STRU

Credit Recognition

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

Documents

• Admission & Enrolment Form (PDF, 427 KB)
• International Application Form (PDF, 358 KB)

Area of Interest

• Music

Programme duration

• FULL-TIME - 1 Year

Start date

• 23 February 2026