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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 and pathway study options that build academic knowledge, skills, and confidence for success in higher levels of study. 

Explore our programmes below and find your way at Wintec.

Seraya, Wintec foundation studies and midwifery student

"I didn’t have my NCEA Level 2 to get into midiwfery, so I completed the Te Ara Pūtake pathway over summer and went straight into the Bachelor."

View pathway programmes

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

One semester
Level 3
Fees-free (usually $4,372)*
Hamilton Rotokauri Campus
Feb 2027
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
$4,372*
Hamilton City Campus
Feb 2027
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 Primary Industry Skills (Level 2)

One semester
Level 2
Fees-free (usually $3,187)*
Hamilton Rotokauri Campus
Feb 2027
This programme will teach you the fundamental skills needed in horticulture production and is ideal if you are looking for a horticulture career, want to gain recognition for your skills, or want to excel in your home garden.

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

One year
Level 4
$3,800*
Hamilton City Campus, Regional/Online delivery
Feb 2027
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

    Do you need some support working out where your interests could take you? At Career Choices Day, we will help you to discover careers that match your strengths and the study pathway options at Wintec that can take you there.

  • Career Choices Day - Rotokauri Campus

    Do you need some support working out where your interests could take you? At Career Choices Day, we will help you to discover careers that match your strengths and the study pathway options at Wintec that can take you there.

  • 9-to-5: The Musical

    Te Kawau Toi | Wintec Music and Performing Arts students present 9-to-5: The Musical, with music and lyrics by Dolly Parton and a book by Patricia Resnick.