Otago Polytechnic is a longstanding public tertiary education institution in New Zealand that focuses on hands-on, industry-relevant learning. It has its main campus in Dunedin and additional campuses including Auckland (international campus) and facilities across Central Otago. It offers a wide range of diplomas, degrees, postgraduate qualifications, certificates, and online programmes across disciplines like business, art, design, IT, construction, health, and more.

Why choose Otago Polytechnic?

• Emphasis on practical skills and employability, with industry-aligned curriculum.

• Personalised support and smaller class environments.

• Strong international student services and accommodation support.

• Options for hands-on learning, internships, and work placements.

 

Programme Structure & Subjects

The programme includes studio-based and complementary courses:

Core studio courses:

• Studio Methods 1 & 2

• Ceramic Arts 1 & 2

Complementary courses:

• Visual Language 1

• Drawing 1

• Art/Craft Theory and History 1

• Glaze Practical 1

Total = ~~120 credits equivalent of a full year of study.

Learning Outcomes & Highlights

Students will:

• Develop practical ceramics skills and creative expression.

• Understand historical, cultural, and theoretical contexts of art.

• Build individual creative projects with strong conceptual foundations.

• Gain transferable skills valuable in art, education, galleries, and craft sectors.

Benefits of this qualification:

• New Zealand’s only specialised tertiary ceramics programme.

• Preparation for further study (e.g., Level 6 diploma or Bachelor of Visual Arts).

 

Business & Marketing Pathways at Otago Polytechnic

Otago Polytechnic’s School of Business offers a range of programmes that develop skills for roles across management, leadership, marketing, sales and more.

NZ Diploma in Business (Level 5) – Leadership & Management

• Level: 5 diploma designed especially for international students (Auckland International Campus).

• Duration: 1 year full-time.

• Credits: 120.

• Delivery: On campus in Auckland, face-to-face.

• Intakes: February, April, July, October.

• Covers topics like leadership theory, business environment, organisational planning, project management.

• Good foundation for careers in business support, team leadership or further study (e.g., Bachelor of Applied Management).

Marketing & Sales Pathways

Otago Polytechnic also offers marketing and sales coursework within business qualifications, building practical digital marketing, consumer behaviour, and strategic marketing skills — often within applied management degree pathways and electives.

 

Visa Requirements for International Students

To study in New Zealand for more than 3 months, you must obtain a student visa from Immigration New Zealand (INZ).

Eligibility & Tips

• You’ll need an Offer of Place from Otago Polytechnic and proof of funds to support study and living costs.

• Valid medical insurance is mandatory.

• After student visa approval, you may be able to work up to 25 hours per week during semester time (subject to visa conditions).

• Applications should be submitted well in advance (often 3 months before travel).

 

Career Outcomes & Pathways

Arts & Design — Ceramics

Graduates can progress to roles such as:

• Ceramic artist or studio practitioner

• Gallery assistant or art educator

• Craft and design professional

• Further study to Level 6 diplomas or Bachelor degrees in visual arts or related fields.

Business & Marketing

Business diploma graduates can work in:

• Business support roles

• Operations or project coordination

• Marketing and sales assistant positions

• Further degree study (e.g., Bachelor of Applied Management) which strengthens career prospects in leadership, management, and marketing.

 

Latest Updates to Know

• Otago Polytechnic continues to emphasise hands-on, industry-aligned learning and has open enrolments for 2026 intakes with personalised student support and events.

• Scholarships and fees may change yearly — always check official pages before applying.