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Foundation Pathways

Foundation programmes, also known as preparation or bridging courses, are ideal for anyone who, is unsure of what programme to study, has been out of study for a while, or doesn’t meet the entry requirements or university entrance for a specific course.

Wintec offers a variety of foundation study options that build academic knowledge, skills, and confidence for success at higher levels of study. 

Explore our programmes below and transform your tomorrow at Wintec.

"I found myself drawn back to my dream of becoming a midwife. I didn’t have my NCEA Level 2 to get in, so I completed the Te Ara Pūtake Academic Pathway course. I did this over the summer and then went straight into the Bachelor of Midwifery degree."

View Foundation programmes

Certificate in Computing (Level 3)

One semester
Level 3
Fees-free ($4,124)*
Hamilton City Campus, Online delivery
Feb 2026
Students in this programme will learn intermediate computing skills to prepare for work or further study. Students will learn skills in project management, web development, branding and design, as well as professional ethical practice, security risks, and common hardware and software problems.

New Zealand Certificate in Business (Administration and Technology) (Level 3)

One semester (two 8-week block courses)
Level 3
$4,296*
Hamilton City Campus
Feb 2026
Students will learn to create business documents such as reports and spreadsheets and gain an understanding of business software. At the end of the semester, students will have the opportunity to put their learning into practice through work experience in a local business.

New Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment Pathways (Level 3)

One semester
Level 3
Fees-free*
Hamilton Rotokauri Campus
Feb 2026
This programme is for anyone seeking a career in law enforcement, the armed forces, or corrections services.

Te Ara Pūtake New Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment Pathways (Level 4)

One semester
Level 4
$4,124*
Hamilton City Campus
Feb 2026
This programme is for those who want to begin study but need to build confidence or brush up on skills. Students will choose from four pathways that align with their career goals and gain essential academic knowledge, capabilities, and skills needed to succeed at higher levels of study.

New Zealand Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Social and Community Services) (Level 4)

One year
Level 4
$3,500*
Hamilton City Campus, Regional/Online delivery
Feb 2026
This programme gives students the strong foundation of knowledge, skills, and behaviours required to work alongside individuals, families and whānau accessing social and community services. Note: This qualification is not associated with professional registration or a clinical scope of practice.

Take a look around

Upcoming events

  • Career Choices Day - City Campus

    Ready to discover what’s possible? Join us for an action-packed day at our Hamilton City Campus where you’ll get a real taste of student life and explore the exciting pathways available to you!

  • Career Choices Day - Rotokauri Campus

    Ready to discover what’s possible? Join us for an action-packed day at our Rotokauri Campus where you’ll get a real taste of student life and explore the exciting pathways available to you!

  • Orientation Day 2026 - Rotokauri Campus

    We want to make sure you feel ready and supported from day one, here at Rotokauri Campus. Orientation Day is a friendly, relaxed event designed just for you - your chance to explore your new community and start feeling at home here.