New Zealand Diploma in Photography (Level 5)

Note: As a subsidiary of Te Pūkenga - New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology, UCOL Te Pūkenga is committed to providing the best learning outcome for you. As part of this, all programmes are currently being reviewed to make them portable, consistent, and closely aligned with the needs of the industry. When published, this course information is correct, but the courses offered may change over time. If you have any questions call an Enrolment Advisor on 0800 468 265.

From 2023, UCOL Te Pūkenga and the programme you have enrolled in will become part of Te Pūkenga. So, if you join UCOL Te Pūkenga in 2023, you will be awarded Te Pūkenga certification. And, if you are a current learner graduating in 2023, you will be awarded a co-branded certificate.

This programme consists of 120 credits.

The UCOL Te Pūkenga  Te Pūkenga New Zealand Diploma in Photography Level 5 is a one-year diploma followed by the New Zealand Diploma in Photography Level 6.

Semester 1

Photographic Practice 1A - Solving visual problems through idea generation, composition, lighting, use of equipment, image processing and presentation.

Digital production 1A - Introduction to skills and knowledge in communicating visual ideas, through understanding digital imaging technology. (Photoshop, Bridge and Indesign)

Semester 2
Photographic Practice 1B - Develop knowledge and skills in solving visual problems through idea generation, composition, and lighting using digital imaging technology.

Digital production 1B - Skills and knowledge in communicating visual ideas, through understanding digital imaging technology.

Both semesters
Photographic Communication 1C - History of photography - technological, social and political approaches. Explore cultural and artistic ideas, identify photographic practitioners and differentiate their stylistic approaches.

Photographic Industry & Business 1C - Understanding of the professional photographic environment. Develop a broad understanding of the skill and knowledge required to operate a photographic business. Intellectual property law and the copyright act in relation to photography in a New Zealand context.

Previous Related Programmes

The New Zealand Diploma in Photography Level 5 supersedes and takes the best from the following programme of study, which is no longer offered:

• Diploma in Photographic Imaging

The general conditions of the New Zealand Diploma in Photography, Level 5, state learners must hold a Level 3 qualification or be able to demonstrate equivalent skills and/or knowledge.

English language proficiency
If English is not your first language, you must also demonstrate English language skills equivalent to an IELTS overall band score (academic) of 5.5 with no band score less than 5 (or equivalent including TOEFL). IELTS scores used must be taken from a single IELTS Test Report Form (i.e. combining scores from more than one test is not permissible).   UCOL Te Pūkenga is a TOEFL testing centre.

In addition to the Domestic Entry Requirements, the following applies to international learner applicants.

English language proficiency
International learner applicants whose first language is not English must have an IELTS Academic  score of 5.5 with no band score lower than 5 (or equivalent including TOEFL). IELTS scores used must be taken from a single IELTS Test Report Form (i.e. combining scores from more than one test is not permissible).  UCOL Te Pūkenga is a TOEFL iBT testing centre. 

Prospective learners should understand that the New Zealand Diploma in Photography, Level 5 requires motivation, organisational skills and commitment.

Where class content is delivered on campus, a high level of attendance is recommended if learners are to satisfactorily meet the learning outcomes. If a student misses a key session or significant portion of the programme, progress may be hampered. It is highly recommended that consistent attendance levels are maintained and notified key sessions are attended.

Where programme content is delivered on-line it is necessary that learners maintain a high level of commitment to completing the programme content and that regular communication is maintained with lecturers.

Timetable Your personalised timetable will be available just prior to classes starting, and will comprise a weekly commitment of:

• 15 hours  of lecturer supported learning in class
• 23 hours of self-directed learning (your own time spent working to complete your assignments)

Please be aware there will probably be at least one night class a week. If you choose to do part-time work, we recommend a maximum of 10 hours a week.

Recognition of prior learning
Applications for Recognition of Prior Learning, including Cross Credit, Credit Transfer and Assessment of Prior Learning may be made on the Recognition of Prior Learning Form where a learner believes all learning outcomes for a course have already been met. Applications will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis in accordance with the UCOL Te Pūkenga Academic Statute and other relavant policies and procedures.

Application checklist
It will make the process easier if you prepare the following before you apply:

• National Student Number (NSN) (If you don't have a NSN, you may request one from NZQA, or you can supply a verified copy of your birth certificate, passport or Whakapapa statement.)
• Evidence of your highest level of academic achievement (and evidence of prior learning, if applicable)
• Evidence that you meet the entry requirements of the programme
• Check if you're eligible for additional support or a scholarship. If you're 19 years or younger, you may be eligible to enrol in one of our free Youth Transition programmes.

Note that you will need to provide any verified documents in person, via post or email (not via the online application form).