This programme is designed for students who need advanced English language skills to enter undergraduate or postgraduate study in New Zealand.

Students will:

• Develop advanced academic reading, writing, listening and speaking skills.
• Learn to understand and produce extended and complex academic texts.
• Strengthen research, referencing and critical thinking skills.
• Improve presentation and academic discussion abilities.
• Personalise learning by researching topics related to their future field of study.
• Study using collaborative learning spaces and modern teaching methods.
• Build confidence for success in degree-level and postgraduate programmes.
• Meet the English language requirement equivalent to IELTS Academic 6.5 upon successful completion for entry into eligible Unitec and many other tertiary programmes.

Programme Structure

The programme develops advanced academic English through integrated learning in:

• Academic Reading
• Academic Writing
• Academic Listening
• Academic Speaking
• Academic Research
• Critical Analysis
• Referencing and Citation
• Academic Vocabulary
• Presentation Skills
• Seminar and Tutorial Participation
• Independent Research
• Extended Academic Text Production

Subjects / Topics Covered

Students develop competencies in:

• Academic Reading Strategies
• Academic Writing
• Research Skills
• Critical Thinking
• Listening to Academic Lectures
• Seminar Discussions
• Academic Presentations
• Information Literacy
• Referencing Techniques
• Academic Vocabulary Development
• Independent Learning
• Intercultural Communication
• Study Skills for Higher Education
• Collaborative Learning

Disciplines / Specialisations Offered

The programme does not offer separate specialisations.

Instead, students personalise their research and academic projects to align with their intended discipline, such as:

• Business
• Information Technology
• Health
• Engineering
• Creative Industries
• Education
• Applied Sciences

Programme Highlights

• NZQA Level 5 nationally recognised qualification.
• Equivalent to IELTS Academic 6.5 on successful completion for eligible progression.
• Strong pathway into undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.
• Modern collaborative learning spaces.
• Small class sizes with personalised lecturer support.
• Experienced English language educators.
• Individualised research linked to future study goals.
• Multicultural learning environment.
• Access to libraries, computer laboratories and student support services.
• Practical preparation for academic success in New Zealand tertiary education.

Career Outcomes

Graduates will have advanced English language skills suitable for professional and academic environments.

Possible outcomes include:

• Progression into undergraduate degree programmes.
• Entry into many postgraduate programmes requiring IELTS 6.5 equivalent.
• Enhanced English communication skills for professional workplaces.
• Improved employability in international and English-speaking work environments.

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

• Students who successfully complete the programme satisfy the English language requirement equivalent to IELTS 6.5 for many Unitec programmes.
• Applicants without IELTS may complete Unitec's English Placement Test for assessment.
• Teaching incorporates collaborative learning, technology-enhanced classrooms and independent research.
• International students graduating from this English language certificate are generally not eligible for a New Zealand Post-Study Work Visa, as English language pathway qualifications do not normally meet post-study work visa eligibility requirements. Students should confirm current immigration rules before enrolment.

Visa Requirements

International students must obtain a valid New Zealand Student Visa before commencing studies.

Typical requirements include:

• Offer of Place from Unitec.
• Valid passport.
• Payment of tuition fees (where applicable).
• Proof of sufficient funds for tuition and living costs.
• Medical and travel insurance.
• Evidence of English language proficiency (if required).
• Approval from Immigration New Zealand.