study in new zealand
www.visioncollege.ac.nz I N T E R N AT I O N A L P R O S P E C T U S
NEW ZEALAND
Stunning Environment In New Zealand you will find a unique culture and stunning natural environment. From rolling green farmland to majestic snow-covered mountains, New Zealand deserves its reputation as having some of the world’s most beautiful scenery. Population and Location New Zealand is similar in land size to the United Kingdom or Japan but has a population of just over 4 million. Most New Zealanders live in cities, so the countryside is very sparsely populated. Our closest neighbour, Australia, is a short three hour plane trip away. Tourism New Zealand is world-renowned for its beautiful natural environment and exciting activities for thrill seekers and adventurers. Tourism is a major year-round industry, which is great for students looking for excellent recreation activities and new experiences. Tourists have opportunities to encounter New Zealand’s unique wildlife including, the famous, flightless kiwi.
Auckland Auckland is New Zealand’s largest city, with a resident population of 1.3 million people. It is known as the ‘City of Sails’, a title gained from having the largest boat and yacht ownership per capita in the world. The city of Auckland contains much serene natural beauty, including two harbours, dormant volcanic sites, scenic mountain ranges and more than fifty islands. Auckland’s temperate climate, easy access to the coast and variety of activities earn the city consistent top five rankings in international lifestyle surveys. Hamilton Hamilton is New Zealand’s fourth largest city and is known for hosting big events. It is a vibrant, thriving city, just over an hour’s drive south of Auckland (our largest city) in the North Island. Hamilton is a safe, friendly and modern city of approximately 130,000 people and close to many of New Zealand’s most popular tourist destinations. Hamilton provides the perfect environment for leisure including scenic walks by the majestic Waikato River or the spectacular Hamilton Gardens, to lakes, walkways and golf courses. Christchurch Christchurch’s well-established expansive parks and public gardens cause it to be famed as ‘The Garden City’ of New Zealand. It has a population of over 350,000 and is the international gateway to the South Island. Christchurch is a major tourist centre, and its residents enjoy a healthy and active lifestyle, helped by its close proximity to ski fields and other outdoor pursuits.
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I N T E R N AT I O N A L P R O S P E C T U S
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School of English (ESOL) General English IELTS
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School of Music Bachelor of Music Diploma of Performance Music
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School of Business New Zealand Diploma in Business NZIM Diploma in Management Diploma in Human Resource Management (Level 6) Diploma in Marketing (Level 6)
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School of Information Technology Diploma in Software Engineering and Design Diploma in WWW Page Programming and Design
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School of Education (Early Childhood) National Certificate in Early Childhood Education and Care School of Counselling Diploma of Counselling
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School of Leadership Diploma in Ministry Diploma in Leadership
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International Student Information
choose Vision College for your study in New Zealand New Zealand is an amazing destination to choose for your tertiary study. Vision College has campuses in the beautiful cities of Hamilton and Christchurch, as well as two satellite campuses for International students in our largest city, Auckland. International students are welcome and come from all over the world to Vision College. Our seven Schools offer a range of qualifications, all registered with the New Zealand Qualifications Authority. These qualifications can help open doors for you to be employed in New Zealand, your home country, or other countries around the world. Vision College is a division of ATC New Zealand which was formed in 1984. It offers a unique Christian-based environment for study. Christian values of care, honour and respect are part of our culture and are all designed to help learners excel. As well as the positive environment, some of the qualifications are taught from a Christian perspective. (This is clearly stated in the course description). People of all religions and cultures are most welcome to study at Vision College. Vision College provides a range of programmes from certificates and diplomas, through to degree level.
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SCHOOL OF ENGLISH
School of English
Certificate in General English
Certificate in Preparation for IELTS and TOEFL
If you are not yet fluent in English, the Certificate in General English is designed to provide you with the opportunity to learn both conversational and academic English in an enjoyable and interesting way. The programme will help you develop four skills (reading, writing, speaking and listening) using up-to-date international and New Zealand topics. Grammar points are also thoroughly covered throughout the course in a clear and helpful way.
If you need to obtain a certain IELTS score to gain entry into tertiary study at a Polytechnic, Private Training Establishment or University, this programme is for you. The Certificate in Preparation for IELTS and TOEFL is a fulltime intensive course of 25 class contact hours a week. Plus you should study at least 1 to 2 hours every evening.
The programme is offered at three levels: Pre-Intermediate, Intermediate, Upper Intermediate. You will be tested and then placed at the appropriate level for your ability. You can progress to the next level once your present level has been achieved. Duration: Flexible, 6-40 weeks Start Date: Anytime Location: Hamilton Entry Requirements Open to New Zealand Citizens/ Permanent Residents and International students whose first language is not English. The minimum age is 16 years (special conditions apply). A placement level indicator test is used to ascertain at which level a student needs to start.
As an international student, you may start the course on any Monday throughout the year, except on Public Holidays. We recommend that you study for a minimum of 6 weeks. IELTS covers the four skills of reading, writing, listening and speaking. Grammar and vocabulary are integrated into the course while covering the four skills. You will be continually examined by using example IELTS tests. Duration: Flexible, 6-40 weeks Start Date: Anytime Location: Hamilton Entry Requirements Open to anyone aged 18 years and over. Students must have a minimum current IELTS score of 4.5. Where an IELTS score is not supplied, final placement will be subject to internal assessment. We reserve the right to place you at a level most suited to your needs.
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SCHOOL OF MUSIC
Bachelor of Music (CCM) Pursue your passion for music with the Bachelor of Music (Contemporary Christian Music) and study the type of music you love - Rock, Pop, R&B, Jazz … even Classical if you like. All based in a dynamic Christian atmosphere. Take Your Skills to a Highly Advanced Level The Bachelor of Music is a robust and challenging three year music degree. It combines both performance and academic study. As a student you will Major in either Vocals, an Instrument or Song Writing, in which you will receive highly advanced one-onone tuition. The degree is unique because it focuses on the special context of contemporary Christian music. This includes worship music and students complete one theology paper each year. The degree also studies modern styles of music, working in a band, music production and the music industry. This dual focus becomes an excellent platform for a music career in either the workplace or ministry. It is also recognised by universities for further study in music and related fields such as education. Our graduates have become teachers, church music directors and full-time music tutors. Duration: 3 years Start Date: February or July Location: Hamilton
One and Two Year Music Diplomas are also available in Hamilton.
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Diploma in Performance Music (Level 7) Music careers don’t just happen. You need to be talented, trained and be industry savvy if you’re going to build a successful career. This course aims to produce professional musicians capable of leading and inspiring others. Be trained to understand the dynamics of performing live and in the studio. Study the business side of the music industry so that you know when and where to find the right deal for you. This course will give you many performance experiences in the public arena as well as going on a short tour. Students will find out what it is like to mix with other musicians and how to adjust to different crowds and performance environments. Duration: 2 years Start Date: February or July Location: Christchurch Entry Requirements for all Music qualifications: • You must be a minimum age of 17 years old • You will need to be interviewed and auditioned. (This can be done by phone calls and video) • You need to have an academic IELTS score of 5.5 or equivalent (International students only). Applicants whose first language is not English will be interviewed to assess their level of English competency and may be required to complete a placement indicator test.
School of Music
SCHOOL OF BUSINESS
School of Business New Zealand Diploma in Business (Level 6)
NZIM Diploma in Management (Level 5)
Diploma in Marketing (Level 6)
The New Zealand Diploma in Business (NZDipBus) is one of the most popular business qualifications in New Zealand and will prepare you for a career in management. Endorsed nationally by employers, professional associations and educational institutions, the NZDipBus focuses on personal and professional development, equipping graduates with a broad range of practical and relevant business skills and knowledge.
The New Zealand Institute of Management (NZIM) is New Zealand’s largest professional management organisation. NZIM created the NZIM Diploma in Management to provide a thorough grounding in business and management practice appropriate for people wishing to enter management roles in business. Vision College is an accredited provider of this NZIM programme.
In just one year you can achieve a Level 6 Diploma in Marketing. This qualification is attractive if you wish to specialise in the marketing side of business, and earn a high level qualification quickly.
On completion of the NZDipBus qualification, graduates will gain an internationally recognised qualification in applied management and business studies enabling entry into business careers, or further undergraduate study. Business studies at Vision College can also meet the academic requirements for students wishing to join the New Zealand Institute of Chartered Accountants or the Financial Services Institute of Australasia, in addition to membership of the New Zealand Institute of Management. Duration: 2 years Start Date: February or July Location: Auckland Hamilton Christchurch
Duration: 1 year Start Date: February or July Location: Auckland Hamilton Christchurch
Diploma in Human Resource Management (Level 6) In just one year you can achieve a Level 6 Diploma in Human Resource Management. For students who wish to specialise in the ‘people’ side of business, and earn a high level qualification quickly, this is an excellent option
Duration: 1 year Start Date: February or July Location: Auckland Hamilton Christchurch
Entry Requirements for Business qualifications • You must be a minimum age of 17 years old and have four years secondary education or be aged over 20 • You may be required to have an interview • You need to have an academic IELTS score of 5.5 or equivalent (International students only). Applicants whose first language is not English will be interviewed to assess their level of English competency and may be required to complete a placement indicator test.
Duration: 1 year Start Date: February or July Location: Auckland Hamilton Christchurch
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S C H O O L O F I N F O R M AT I O N T E C H N O L O G Y
Diploma in Software Engineering and Design (Level 6) Want to be a gaming programmer or software developer? This qualification will prepare you for the rapidly changing programming industry. The course focuses purely on software engineering, beginning with traditional techniques and swiftly moving to the latest industry standards. The course is divided into three major sections - Programming, Analysis and Design and culminates with the Final Project. The project is the opportunity for students to showcase the skills they have acquired on the course. Starting with the client’s initial instructions you will design a complete project in an industry standard manner. You will analyse, design and build a working programme which meets your client’s specifications. Duration: 1 year Start Date: February, April or July Location: Christchurch
Diploma in WWW Page Programming and Design (Level 6) In just one year you can learn how to design, build and implement complete websites from scratch! This Level 6 course is unique in New Zealand as it teaches both web programming and graphic design. To gain entry to the course you must be a competent computer user, but do not need any prior web design experience. The Diploma covers the wide range of skills you will need to confidently create websites. Starting with an introduction to HTML and cascading style sheets, through to using Javascript, server-side 7
processing (ASP.NET) and building dynamic websites with backend SQL databases. The course is taught with a hands-on approach and culminates with the ‘Final Project’ in which you will be linked with a real-life client and gain true experience by working with them right from conceptualisation through to ‘going live’ with their brand new website. Duration: 1 year Start Date: February or July Location: Auckland Hamilton Christchurch
Entry Requirements for all Music qualifications: • You must be a minimum age of 17 years old and have four years secondary education or be aged over 20 • You need to be able to demonstrate strong computer skills and may be required to complete an aptitude test • You must have Year 11 or Form 6 Mathematics (or equivalent) • You may be required to have an interview • You need to have an academic IELTS score of 5.5 or equivalent (International students only). Applicants whose first language is not English will be interviewed to assess their level of English competency and may be required to complete a placement indicator test.
School of Information Technology
S C H O O L O F E D U C AT I O N
School of Education (Early Childhood) National Certificate in Early Childhood Education and Care (Level 5) There is a huge shortage of Early Childhood teachers in New Zealand. More people need to be trained to keep up with the ever-growing demand. Start your journey to becoming an Early Childhood teacher at Vision College. Do you love interacting with children? Pursue that passion as your career! Study full-time on campus and gain a Level 5 National Certificate in only one year. If you can’t get into a teaching degree programme directly, this course
is for you and is your first step to becoming a qualified teacher. It will give you a strong grounding in essential Early Childhood knowledge and 210 hours of work placement ensures you gain real hands-on experience. Duration: 1 year Start Date: February or July Location: Hamilton Christchurch Entry Requirements • You must be a minimum age of 17 years old and have four years secondary education or be aged over 20 • You need to be interviewed
School of Counselling Diploma of Counselling (Level 6) Are you someone that hurting people are drawn to for help and support? Learn how to effectively assist people towards growth and change through counselling. This programme is designed to train ethical, professional counsellors. Our students graduate with a high level of self-awareness, competence in academic, research and writing, and practical counselling skills based on a sound understanding of philosophies and models. Tutors are committed to working from both a professional and Christian world view.
• You must obtain a police certificate from your country of origin • You need to produce a statement of personal interest in the qualification • You will need to supply two confidential referee reports • You need to have an academic IELTS score of 5.5 or equivalent (International students only).
A 6 month Certificate at Level 3 is also available in Christchurch
SCHOOL OF COUNSELLING
The first year of the Diploma is classroom based with lectures and development of practical counselling skills. The second year involves 100 hours of supervised practicum along with distance study and block courses. Duration: 2 years Start Date: February Location: Hamilton Christchurch Entry Requirements • You must be a minimum age of 24 years on February 1st of the year in which study commences • You must obtain a police certificate from your country of origin
• You need to provide two short written assignments • You will need to provide two written references • You must have an interview to determine personal interest • You must be suitable for the professional field, and ability to study at tertiary level • You must agree to have ten hours of personal counselling • You need to have an academic IELTS score of 7.5 or equivalent (International students only).
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Diploma in Ministry (Level 5) Have you thought about taking a year out to deepen your faith? Some students like to do this before pursuing career orientated study. The Diploma in Ministry is designed as initial training for people who want to invest in their understanding of God, the Bible and ministry. It is for people who are passionate about growing in influence to impact their world. Strong theological and biblical content is complimented by valuable practical subjects, to produce Christians of excellence in knowledge, skill and character. This foundation enables graduates to pursue leadership roles in the workplace or in Christian ministry. The course has two streams: On Campus and Internship. On Campus students elect to complete all papers on campus (and still have the opportunity to complete an internship by progressing on to the Diploma in Christian Leadership). Or choose to complete an internship consisting of fewer papers but more practical learning as an intern in a local church. This course also fulfils the requirements for the first year of the two-year Diploma in Christian Leadership programme. So with an additional one year of study, you can complete the Diploma in Christian Leadership (Level 6) which is focused on leadership and ministry skills and will prepare you for ministry staff roles and leading churches. Duration: 1 year Start Date: February or July Location: Hamilton Christchurch Distance
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Diploma in Christian Leadership (Level 6) Do you feel God’s call on your life to lead people? Would you like to work full time for a church or ministry? The Diploma of Christian Leadership is a two year intensive leadership development programme that has been designed for people who feel called to be strongly involved in full or part time ministry.
SCHOOL OF LEADERSHIP
School of Leadership
The first year of the Diploma in Christian Leadership is identical to the Diploma in Ministry (Level 5) and can be classroom or internship based. The second year of the programme focuses intensely on leadership developing your knowledge and skill. Topics include leading teams, strategic leadership, personal leadership, managing a church and leading church growth. This study is combined with 15 hours of ministry per week in your local church or ministry which provides an opportunity to put your learning into practice and gain ministry experience Duration: 2 years Start Date: February or July Location: Hamilton Distance
Entry Requirements for Leadership qualifications: • You must be a minimum age of 18 years old and have four years secondary education or be aged over 20 • You need to supply Pastoral references and have an interview • You need to have an academic IELTS score of 5.5 or equivalent (International students only). Applicants whose first language is not English will be interviewed to assess their level of English competency and may be required to complete a placement indicator test.
I N T E R N AT I O N A L S T U D E N T I N F O R M AT I O N
Only a brief overview of Vision College is included here in this prospectus. International students need to read the International Student Enrolment Handbook for detailed information about Vision College and studying in New Zealand. The handbook can be downloaded from the Vision College website: www.visioncollege.ac.nz A full list of fees and related costs can also be downloaded from the Vision College website: www.visioncollege.ac.nz
about Vision College
Code of Practice for Pastoral Care of International Students Vision College is a division of ATC New Zealand. ATC New Zealand has agreed to observe and be bound by the Code of Practice for the Pastoral Care of International Students published by the Minister of Education. Copies of the Code are available on request from ATC New Zealand or from the New Zealand Ministry of Education website at http://www.minedu. govt.nz/goto/international ATC New Zealand Vision College is a division of ATC New Zealand, which is a large education provider with well over 100 employees and contracted tutors and multiple branches across the country. As well as Vision College, ATC New Zealand has a number of other divisions, one of which provides teaching and assessment resources to over 85% of secondary schools in New Zealand. Being part of such an influential and significant organisation, Vision College has the experience, structure and resource to provide you with a high quality education experience. ATC New Zealand is the trading name for Apostolic Training Centres Ltd and is a registered charitable company.
Course Coordinators and Tutors Vision College Course Coordinators are experts in their field of study. The College is privileged to have tutors who excel in teaching both academic and practical application knowledge. Their desire is to inspire you towards a successful future. Our Campuses Main campuses are based in Hamilton and Christchurch with two satellite campuses in Auckland for international students only. Vision College has modern facilities and technology at its campuses. We pride ourselves on offering small classes where personal attention is readily available. The following descriptions of facilities apply to our two main campuses. See the International Student Enrolment Handbook for full descriptions of facilities at the satellite campuses. Library and IT Facilities Our campuses have libraries well stocked with all the information needed to help students with their studies. Students also have high-speed internet access to a wide range of learning resources. Students receive a personal ID Card which gives access to digital copiers, printers and scanners. Student ID cards can also give discounts at shops and movies. Cafeteria The College cafeteria provides students with tea and coffee and a place to meet new friends.
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International Students International students are welcome and come from all over the world to Vision College. Things that make Vision College attractive to international students are:
Transport Some on-site parking is available. Bus Stops are within easy walking distance.
• Modern, well equipped campuses • Interaction with students from New Zealand and many other nations • Excellent English tuition • Vocational studies, right up to degree level • Safe, friendly. Christian values • Affordable fees • Great atmosphere of caring and support • Small classes • Expert tutors with personal interest in students • Earn immigration points • On-site parking • Caring homestays available • Great tour and sightseeing options.
Enrolment Academic Entry Application forms and course related costs are available upon request. Please contact Vision College or a local agent. Recognition of Prior Learning Vision College has an established procedure to evaluate any prior learning students wish to have recognised and grant credits where applicable. Please enquire for assistance in this matter.
Accommodation Please enquire if homestay is required. Some students prefer to “flat” (i.e. share a house with others). When you first come to New Zealand, we recommend that you allow us to arrange homestay accommodation for a minimum of four weeks. Homestay accommodation gives students the chance to enjoy the NZ culture first hand as well as providing the opportunity to practise English. Staying with a New Zealand homestay family for the full length of studies will quickly improve English speaking ability.
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Our homestay families are carefully selected for their ability to provide support to international students in a comfortable and safe environment. Many students develop lasting relationships with their homestay carers. New Zealand families are generally friendly and respectful of other cultures, religions and interests.
Pathways to Further Study The education system in New Zealand is recognised as one of the best in the world. There are many qualifications available through Private Training Establishments, Institutes of Technology and Universities. International students will find there is a wide range of Certificates, Diplomas, Degrees and post-graduate qualifications are available once they meet the clear entry criteria. Vision College actively supports these pathways to further study within New Zealand. We maintain relationships with other tertiary organisations and can advise you on your study abroad plan. Payment of Fees Fees are payable upon enrolment and are protected by a Student Fee Protection Trust. The New Zealand Government will only grant a student visa once the course fees have been paid in full. Further information on fees and conditions are available in the International Student Enrolment Handbook.
I N T E R N AT I O N A L S T U D E N T I N F O R M AT I O N
Chaplain The College wants to help students succeed in their studies. Should confidential, personal help be needed, Chaplains are available on call.
study in new zealand For a full list of authorised agents in your country, visit www.visioncollege.ac.nz
Head Office & Hamilton Campus 21 Ruakura Road Hamilton 3216 New Zealand Phone +64 7 853 0777 Fax +64 7 853 0223 hamilton@visioncollege.ac.nz
Christchurch Campus 334 Manchester Street Christchurch 8013 New Zealand Phone +64 3 377 2364 Fax +64 3 366 9271 christchurch@visioncollege.ac.nz www.visioncollege.ac.nz Vision College is a division of ATC New Zealand (Est. 1984). NZQA Registered.