This programme is designed for students who want to prepare for degree-level study or entry-level employment in the social services sector.

Key reasons to study include:

• Develop self-awareness, self-reflection and interpersonal communication skills.
• Build the academic skills needed for tertiary study.
• Explore your own cultural identity while learning to work effectively with people from diverse backgrounds.
• Gain practical knowledge relevant to social work and community services.
• Learn through project-based and collaborative learning activities.
• Develop confidence for university-level study.
• Prepare for progression into the Bachelor of Applied Social Work (Level 7) or the Bachelor of Applied Counselling (Level 7).
• Build employability skills for community support and social service roles.
• Benefit from personalised academic support and access to M?ori and Pasifika learner services through Te Ara Oranga.

Programme Structure

Students complete four compulsory courses (60 credits):

Skills for Successful Tertiary Study (15 Credits)

Students develop:

• Self-awareness and self-reflection.
• Interpersonal communication skills.
• Academic study strategies.
• Cultural literacy.
• Digital literacy and information technology skills.
• Career and study planning.

Pathway Project A – Society (15 Credits)

Topics include:

• Society and community issues.
• Social responsibility.
• Critical thinking.
• Applied research.
• Community engagement.

Pathway Project B – Identity and Culture (15 Credits) Students explore:

• Personal and cultural identity.
• Diversity and inclusion.
• M?ori and Pasifika perspectives.
• Reflective practice.
• Social relationships.

Communication for Study and Employment (15 Credits)

Students strengthen:

• Academic reading and writing.
• Professional communication.
• Oral presentations.
• Information literacy.
• Research and referencing skills.
• Critical analysis.

Subjects / Topics Covered

Students study:

• Academic Literacy
• Professional Communication
• Self-awareness
• Interpersonal Skills
• Cultural Identity
• Diversity and Inclusion
• Community Studies
• Social Issues
• Research Skills
• Study Skills
• Critical Thinking
• Digital Literacy
• Career Planning
• Reflective Practice

Disciplines / Specialisations Offered

The programme does not have separate specialist streams but provides preparation for further study in:

• Social Work
• Counselling
• Community Services
• Youth Work
• Mental Health and Addiction Services
• Iwi Social Services
• Education and Social Sciences

Programme Highlights

• NZQA Level 4 nationally recognised qualification.
• Strong preparation for social work and counselling degrees.
• Practical, project-based learning.
• Development of self-awareness and interpersonal communication.
• Small class sizes with personalised lecturer support.
• Flexible full-time and part-time study options.
• Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) available.
• Access to M?ori and Pasifika learner support through Te Ara Oranga.
• Excellent pathway into MIT's Bachelor of Applied Social Work and Bachelor of Applied Counselling programmes.
• Supportive and culturally diverse learning environment.

Career Outcomes

This qualification serves as both a pathway programme and a preparation for entry-level employment in the social services sector.

Graduates may progress to:

• Bachelor of Applied Social Work (Level 7)
• Bachelor of Applied Counselling (Level 7)
• Other degree-level programmes in education or social sciences

Potential employment opportunities include:

• Community Support Worker
• Social Services Support Worker
• Youth Support Worker
• Community Development Assistant
• Mental Health Support Worker (entry-level)
• NGO Support Worker
• Social Services Administrator

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

• The programme emphasises self-awareness, cultural responsiveness and interpersonal communication.
• Students complete project-based assessments linked to community and social service settings.
• Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is available for eligible applicants.
• International students must attend on-campus classes.
• Access is available to comprehensive academic, wellbeing and cultural support services, including Te Ara Oranga.
• A Compulsory Student Services Fee (CSSF) is payable in addition to tuition fees.
• Tuition fees are reviewed annually and are subject to change.

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.