Foundation Studies Certificate
Dunedin, New Zealand
Certificate
DURATION
13 weeks
LANGUAGES
English
PACE
Full time
APPLICATION DEADLINE
EARLIEST START DATE
Feb 2027
TUITION FEES
NZD 32,036 *
STUDY FORMAT
On-Campus
* international fee | NZD 6144 - 6408 domestic fee
Key Summary
About: The University of Otago Foundation Studies Certificate prepares students for undergraduate study by developing study skills, academic knowledge and confidence. Offered by the University of Otago (founded 1869), this NZQF Level 4 university entrance qualification is open to domestic and international students and finishes in two 13-week semesters. The pathway programme bridges gaps for students who don't meet entry requirements.
Career Outcomes: The Certificate supports progression to bachelor's degrees across disciplines, preparing students for careers in education, business, health and technology. It builds transferable skills—academic writing, study strategies and critical thinking—suited to roles like research assistant and administrative roles.
Gain the confidence, academic skills and knowledge to succeed in your undergraduate studies at the University of Otago, or at another New Zealand university.
The University of Otago Foundation Studies Certificate is a university entrance qualification that can be completed within two 13-week semesters and is open to domestic and international students. This is a NZQF Level 4 qualification.
The Foundation Studies Certificate is the ideal pathway programme for students who do not meet university entrance requirements, but who have a strong desire to achieve a university degree and seek a supportive environment to achieve that goal.
The Foundation Studies Certificate comprises a carefully paced series of courses which give students a solid foundation of academic knowledge, study skills and the confidence to succeed at university.