Why Study the New Zealand Diploma in Baking (Level 5) at MIT?

The New Zealand Diploma in Baking (Level 5) is designed for qualified bakers who want to progress into supervisory, management, or business ownership roles within the baking industry.

Key reasons to choose this programme include:

• Industry-recognised Level 5 qualification.
• Focus on advanced baking and patisserie techniques.
• Learn commercial and boutique bakery management.
• Develop leadership and operational management skills.
• Gain knowledge in bakery business planning and product development.
• Complete extensive industry placement (210 hours).
• Learn from experienced baking professionals.
• Access modern commercial bakery facilities.
• Excellent pathway towards bakery management or entrepreneurship.
• High demand for qualified baking professionals throughout New Zealand and internationally.

Programme Structure

Students complete seven core courses (120 credits):

1. New Approaches to Baking Technologies and Techniques (15 Credits)

• Modern baking technologies
• Innovative production methods
• Emerging industry trends

2. Bakery Product Design (15 Credits)

• Decorative baking
• Celebration cake design
• Product presentation
• Creative bakery concepts

3. Specialist Baking (15 Credits)

• Large-scale bakery production
• Commercial planning
• Production efficiency

4. Practical Team Leadership Skills in a Bakery (15 Credits)

• Team leadership
• Staff rostering
• Workplace supervision
• Food safety management
• Occupational health and safety

5. Production and Quality Assurance of Baked Goods (15 Credits)

• Product evaluation
• Quality assurance
• Fault identification
• Corrective production methods

6. Bakery Business Design (15 Credits)

• Bakery management
• Business planning
• Financial considerations
• Bakery operations

7. Industry Placement (30 Credits Total)

Students complete:

• Commercial bakery placement
• Specialist bakery placement

Subjects and Skills Covered

Students develop expertise in:

• Artisan baking
• Commercial baking
• Plant baking
• Bakery product innovation
• Advanced cake decoration
• Bakery quality systems
• Food safety
• Bakery operations
• Bakery leadership
• Team management
• Production planning
• Business management
• Product development
• Industry compliance
• Commercial bakery placement

Disciplines / Specialisations

The diploma focuses on:

• Commercial Baking
• Craft Baking
• Bakery Leadership
• Bakery Business Management
• Bakery Product Design
• Quality Assurance
• Specialist Baking
• Bakery Operations Management

Highlights

• NZQA Level 5 Diploma
• Industry-recognised qualification
• Category 1 education provider
• 120 credits
• One-year full-time programme
• 210 hours of industry placement
• Strong emphasis on leadership and bakery management
• Learn commercial and boutique bakery operations
• Modern commercial bakery facilities
• Experienced industry lecturers
• Pathway to bakery supervisor, manager, or business owner
• Practical, employment-focused learning

Career Outcomes

Graduates may pursue roles such as:

• Bakery Supervisor
• Bakery Team Leader
• Bakery Manager
• Bakery Specialist
• Production Supervisor
• Bakery Business Owner
• Artisan Baker
• Commercial Baker
• Plant Bakery Supervisor
• Café or Bakery Entrepreneur

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

• The programme includes 210 hours of compulsory industry placement.
• Students are expected to participate in practical bakery training.
• Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is available for eligible applicants.
• International students are required to attend on-campus classes; online study is not available.
• Programme fees are indicative for the 2026 academic year and may change.

Visa Requirements

International students intending to study this programme generally require a New Zealand Fee Paying Student Visa.

Applicants typically need:

• Offer of Place from MIT
• Evidence of tuition fee payment (or payment arrangements)
• Proof of sufficient funds for living expenses
• Valid passport
• Medical examination (if required)
• Police clearance (where applicable)
• Approved health insurance
• Evidence of English language proficiency
• Compliance with immigration requirements set by Immigration New Zealand