Computing & Microsoft Basics
Ready to master the digital tools that power the modern world for free?
With UCOL’s free Introduction to Computing and Microsoft programmes you’ll gain the skills every employer is looking for! Whether you’re new to technology or want to sharpen your skills, these courses will give you confidence to study and work smarter.
Learn the essentials of computing and dive into the most popular Microsoft applications so you can create professional documents, organise data and master spreadsheets, design presentations and craft eye-catching publications.
Explore our programmes below and chat to our friendly team.
Computing & Microsoft Basics
Whether you need a refresher course or you're wanting to learn new computing skills, these free courses will leave you confident and ready to study or work smarter.
Introduction to Computing
UCOL Manawatū in Palmerston North, UCOL Whanganui
10-week blocks with flexible days and times
Palmerston North and Whanganui
09 Feb 2026 - 17 Apr 2026
20 Mar 2026 - 03 Jul 2026
20 Jul 2026 - 25 Sep 2026
05 Oct 2026 - 11 Dec 2026
Get confident with computers for free!
Introduction to Microsoft Word
10-week blocks with flexible days and times
Palmerston North and Whanganui
09 Feb 2026 - 17 Apr 2026
20 Mar 2026 - 03 Jul 2026
20 Jul 2026 - 25 Sep 2026
05 Oct 2026 - 11 Dec 2026
Turn ideas into polished pages! Learn the essentials of Microsoft Word processing for free!
Introduction to Microsoft Excel
10-week blocks with flexible days and times
Palmerston North and Whanganui
09 Feb 2026 - 17 Apr 2026
20 Mar 2026 - 03 Jul 2026
20 Jul 2026 - 25 Sep 2026
05 Oct 2026 - 11 Dec 2026
Take control of data and boost your productivity - unlock the power of Microsoft Excel for free!
Introduction to Microsoft PowerPoint
Flexible days and times to complete 40 hours of learning
Palmerston North and Whanganui
09 Feb 2026 - 17 Apr 2026
20 Mar 2026 - 03 Jul 2026
20 Jul 2026 - 25 Sep 2026
05 Oct 2026 - 11 Dec 2026
Design professional, eye-catching presentations – learn how to master Microsoft PowerPoint for free!