U-Skills Tertiary Pathway Programmes

What is U-Skills Tertiary Pathways?

U-Skills Tertiary Pathways are designed for students who have identified their career pathway and are ready to transition from school to tertiary study. You have the chance to gain a tertiary qualification and, in some cases, start your apprenticeship while still at school. You will be dual-enrolled at your school and UCOL, spending up to five days a week at UCOL as you work towards a New Zealand Certificate in a particular career pathway.

What will I gain?

A FREE relevant tertiary qualification while still at school, building on previous achievement and experience at NCEA and/or U-Skills Trades Academy. Please note that, in most cases, the credits in these programmes won't contribute to NCEA.

Where does it lead?

Higher level of study (i.e. Level 4 and above), apprenticeships, or employment.

U-Skills Tertiary Pathways places are subject to availability and meeting entry criteria. Transport to UCOL's campuses isn't provided for these programmes.

How to apply

If you're interested in applying for this programme, talk to your careers advisor at school. Application is arranged in partnership with your parents/caregivers and your school. Use the U-Skills Tertiary Pathways application form below, and please indicate the full programme name. Email: u-skills@ucol.ac.nz for more information.

U-Skills Tertiary Pathways Programme Options

Construction & Infrastructure

• New Zealand Certificate in Construction Trade Skills (Carpentry) (Level 3)

• New Zealand Certificate in Building, Construction and Allied Trade Skills (Level 2)

• New Zealand Certificate in Plumbing, Gasfitting and Drainlaying (Level 3)

• New Zealand Certificate in Construction Trade Skills (Joinery) (Level 3)

Creative Industries

• New Zealand Certificate in Arts and Design (Level 4)

Manufacturing & Technology

• New Zealand Certificate in Mechanical Engineering (Level 3)

• New Zealand Certificate in Automotive Engineering (Level 3)

• New Zealand Certificate in Automotive and Collision Repair (Level 3)

• New Zealand Certificate in Electrical Pre-Trade (Level 3)

• New Zealand Certificate in IT Essentials (Level 4)

Service Industries

• New Zealand Certificate in Business (Administration and Technology) (Level 3)

• New Zealand Certificate in Business (Administration and Technology) (Level 4)

• New Zealand Certificate in Beauty Therapy (Level 4)

• New Zealand Certificate in Hairdressing (Level 3)

• New Zealand Certificate in Nail Technology (Level 4)

• New Zealand Certificate in Food and Beverage Service (Level 3)

• New Zealand Certificate in Food and Beverage Service (Level 4)

Social & Community Services

• New Zealand Certificate in Early Childhood Education and Care (Level 4)

• New Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment Pathways (Level 3) (Health Field)

• New Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment Pathways (Level 4) (Health Science Field)

• New Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment Pathways (Level 4) (Medical Imaging Field)

Please check the Entry Requirements for the programme you are interested in.

For year 11 - 13 secondary school learners (NZ Citizens, permanent residents or learners with an applicable visa allowing them to be enrolled in a secondary school). Applications are to be received from participating schools.

Please enquire for details

Successful completion of U-Skills Tertiary Pathways programme will lead you to a higher level of study (i.e. Level 4 and above), apprenticeships or employment.

The UCOL U-Skills Tertiary Pathways Programme is part of a suite of programmes offered by UCOL to secondary learners seeking to explore their career options while still in school. This programme is fees-free for learners.