New Zealand
Institutes of Technology and Polytechnics
New Zealand institutes of technology and polytechnics (ITPs) deliver academic and applied education at all levels, from English language and foundation studies through to full first degree and postgraduate programmes
Owned and funded by the government, ITPs have been a cornerstone of New Zealand’s education for over 100 years, and have been welcoming international students since the 1980s.
Among their key distinguishing features are:
- the emphasis on student focused teaching
- strong links with the world of work.
Most of the classes are small, learning is applied and flexible, and ITPs all operate well developed student support services.
The ITPs offer a huge range of programmes, including agriculture, horticulture and viticulture; art and design; building and construction; business studies; engineering; marine studies; computing and information technology; nursing; media studies; tourism; hospitality and catering and many more. Levels of study range from foundation programmes to diploma, first degree and postgraduate studies. New Zealand ITP qualifications are internationally recognised and graduates are ready to work in the global environment.
In line with the changing needs of society and the working world, ITPs are constantly developing, with innovative vocational and applied education and research delivered in partnership with business and industry.
Key benefits of choosing an ITP
All ITPs have international centres or staff whose role it is to provide extra care and attention for international students, creating a learning environment that is supportive of your personal and cultural needs. You are given individual access to tutors, together with specialist support for foundation and English language skills. Student learning centres assist with study techniques, subject support, learning and balancing the demands of academic study.
Help is also available to cover such issues as enrolment, accommodation, cultural adjustment, orientation, student visas, health and personal problems.
English language skills
As a general rule, a minimum 6.0 IELTS (academic) or equivalent is required for most diplomas and all degrees. Some programmes may accept a 5.5 IELTS (academic) while others will insist on a 6.5 score. TOEFL is accepted by all ITPs, along with other international English language testing systems such as the Cambridge examination.
ITPs offer a wide range of English programmes on campus, with excellent support for beginners through to academic English speakers, so that you can reach your required goal in minimum time. They can also arrange private tuition if appropriate.
Flexible learning
You can enter an ITP at foundation, certificate, diploma or degree level and can move up the levels, often with cross credits allowing speedier progress. ITPs accept students who meet each programme’s entry requirements straight from high school or from the workplace.
Many ITPs also offer online or distance learning options, allowing you the flexibility to study when and where you want.
Qualification levels
- Foundation Programmes:These programmes are available for students who do not meet the academic requirements for direct entry into diploma or degree programmes
- Certificates:Certificate programmes provide students with a broad introduction to the practical and/or academic frameworks for a field of study
- Diplomas:A comprehensive range of undergraduate diplomas is offered by all the ITPs. Many students move into work upon completion of one of these diplomas
- Degrees:ITPs offer internationally recognised degree programmes, providing graduates with a sound combination of academic and practical knowledge
- Postgraduate Degrees:Some ITPs offer postgraduate diplomas and Masters degrees that provide high-level specialist education
- Cross credits (Advanced Standing): ITPs are able to assess overseas qualifications for cross crediting. They work closely with New Zealand universities so that many of the qualifications ITPs confer may be cross-credited towards university undergraduate or postgraduate studies.
Strong business links
ITPs work closely with industry associations and other business and professional bodies to ensure the courses they offer are relevant to New Zealand’s employers and that current industry practices are included in the learning curriculum.
ITP lecturers are academically qualified as well as having industry experience. Study is applied to authentic and relevant tasks and problems. Teaching is highly interactive and formative.
Quality assurance
In order to offer a course of study of more than twelve weeks to international students, an ITP must have the course approved by the New Zealand Qualification Authority (NZQA) or ITP Quality. The approval process is ongoing and rigorous, guaranteeing the quality of programmes and ensuring that ITP qualifications match the equivalent qualifications in New Zealand universities.
Tell me more!
For further information, visit the Institutes of Technology and Polytechnics of New Zealand website at: www.itpnz.ac.nz
We are grateful to Education New Zealand for their help in preparing this article. Visit their website at: www.newzealandeducated.com |
