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U-Skills Tertiary Pathways

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Gain a free tertiary qualification while at school and/or start an apprenticeship with the UCOL U-Skills Tertiary Pathways programme.

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Quick info

Locations: UCOL Manawatū in Palmerston North, UCOL Whanganui, UCOL Wairarapa in Masterton

Duration: Usually three days a week at UCOL (can be up to five in some cases).

Dates:
Check the individual programme page for start dates.

Domestic Fees:
Fees-free to learners.

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PDF
Enrolment Guide and Form - Domestic Students
Download the Enrolment Guide and Form - Domestic Students.
What is U-Skills Tertiary Pathways?
U-Skills Tertiary Pathways are designed for students who have identified their career pathway and are ready to transition from school to tertiary study. You have the chance to gain a tertiary qualification and, in some cases, start your apprenticeship while still at school. You will be dual-enrolled at your school and UCOL, spending up to five days a week at UCOL as you work towards a New Zealand Certificate in a particular career pathway.

What will I gain?
A FREE relevant tertiary qualification while still at school, building on previous achievement and experience at NCEA and/or U-Skills Trades Academy. Please note that, in most cases, the credits in these programmes won't contribute to NCEA.

Where does it lead?
Higher level of study (i.e. Level 4 and above), apprenticeships, or employment. 
U-Skills Tertiary Pathways places are subject to availability and meeting entry criteria. Transport to UCOL's campuses isn't provided for these programmes.

How to apply
If you're interested in applying for this programme, talk to your careers advisor at school. Application is arranged in partnership with your parents/caregivers and your school. Use the U-Skills Tertiary Pathways application form below, and please indicate the full programme name. Email: u-skills@ucol.ac.nz for more information.

U-Skills Tertiary Pathways Programme Options

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Construction & Infrustructure

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Creative Industries

Manufacturing & Technology

Services Industries

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Successful completion of U-Skills Tertiary Pathways programme will lead you to a higher level of study (i.e. Level 4 and above), apprenticeships or employment.



Please check the Entry Requirements for the programme you are interested in.

For year 11 - 13 secondary school learners (NZ Citizens, permanent residents or learners with an applicable visa allowing them to be enrolled in a secondary school). Applications are to be received from participating schools.

 

For more information about NCEA Credits see the UCOL NCEA explained page.

Please enquire for details

The UCOL U-Skills Tertiary Pathways Programme is part of a suite of programmes offered by UCOL to secondary learners seeking to explore their career options while still in school. This programme is fees-free for learners.

There are no additional costs associated with this programme. Simply bring a pen, paper and your lunch each week.

Student & Staff Profiles

  • U-Skills and Automotive Graduate Ben Duck

    Ben Duck

    U-Skills and Automotive Graduate

    Juggling UCOL studies, secondary school classes, and work experience requires great commitment, but it has paid off for young automotive apprentice Ben Duck.

    Meet Ben
  • Keila Allen - Automotive Student

    Keila Allen

    Automotive Student

    When asked about her choice to study automotive engineering at UCOL, Keila Allen says she didn’t need much convincing.

    Meet Keila
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