This programme is designed for students who want to build a strong academic foundation before progressing into social work, counselling, health or community services qualifications.

Key benefits include:

• Develop essential English language, literacy and numeracy skills for higher education.
• Build confidence, independence and effective study habits.
• Learn through real-world projects linked to social work and community settings.
• Receive personalised support from experienced lecturers.
• Study in a supportive classroom environment that encourages active participation.
• Strengthen communication, critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Access dedicated M?ori and Pasifika learner support through Te Ara Oranga.
• Progress towards higher-level qualifications in social work, counselling or health

Programme Structure

Students complete the following compulsory courses (60 credits):

Mathematics in Practice (15 Credits)

Students develop:

• Practical numeracy
• Mathematical reasoning
• Problem-solving skills
• Real-world mathematical applications for study and employment

Pathway Projects (30 Credits)

Students:

• Apply literacy and numeracy skills through authentic project work.
• Complete social work-related learning activities.
• Develop research, planning and analytical skills.
• Prepare for tertiary-level study.

Communication in Practice (15 Credits)

Topics include:

• Academic reading and writing
• Oral communication
• Information literacy
• Study skills
• Professional communication
• Critical thinking

Subjects / Topics Covered

Students study:

• Academic Literacy
• English Language Skills
• Mathematics
• Numeracy
• Communication Skills
• Critical Thinking
• Research Skills
• Study Skills
• Problem Solving
• Community-based Projects
• Professional Communication
• Learning Strategies

Disciplines / Specialisations Offered

This qualification is offered as the Social Work pathway and prepares students for further study in areas including:

• Social Work
• Counselling
• Community Services
• Health Studies
• Social Services
• Community Health

Programme Highlights

• NZQA Level 3 nationally recognised qualification.
• Strong pathway into social work, counselling and health programmes.
• Supportive classroom environment with personalised academic support.
• Real-world project-based learning.
• Small class sizes.
• Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) available.
• Dedicated M?ori and Pasifika learner support through Te Ara Oranga.
• Development of academic, communication and study skills required for higher education.
• Flexible full-time and part-time study options.

Career Outcomes

This qualification is primarily designed as a pathway programme rather than a direct employment qualification.

Graduates may progress to further study such as:

• New Zealand Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Social and Community Services) (Level 4)
• Health pathway programmes
• Counselling pathway programmes
• Social work pathway qualifications
• Other Level 3 or Level 4 tertiary programmes

With further qualifications, graduates may pursue careers including:

• Social Worker
• Community Support Worker
• Youth Worker
• Community Health Worker
• Counsellor
• Mental Health Support Worker.

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

• Students may be required to complete literacy and numeracy assessments during the programme.
• Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is available for eligible applicants.
• Selected courses may be available as individual Certificates of Proficiency (COP).
• International students must attend face-to-face classes and cannot enrol in online-only study.
• Students have access to comprehensive academic, wellbeing and cultural support services, including Te Ara Oranga for M?ori and Pasifika learners.
• Programme fees are indicative and subject to annual review.
• A Compulsory Student Services Fee (CSSF) is payable in addition to tuition fees.

Visa Requirements

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

Applicants generally require:

• Offer of Place from MIT.
• Valid passport.
• Payment of tuition fees (where applicable).
• Proof of sufficient funds for tuition fees and living expenses.
• Medical and travel insurance.
• Evidence of English language proficiency.
• Student visa approval from Immigration New Zealand.