This agriculture certificate serves as the foundational step towards a fulfilling career in New Zealand's primary sector. It can pave the way to opportunities in farm management, farm ownership, or roles in related industries, particularly in dairy farming.
44 weeks full-time
2027 Semester 1: 22 February to 03 December
This programme is eligible for the Zero Fees Scheme.
International Fees can be found here.
This programme, commonly known as Cert Ag includes a range of fundamental practical skills alongside the underpinning theory that will set you up for a career in a multitude of career opportunities in the primary sector. You will have at least 10 weeks of work experience on farms throughout Otago and Southland, learning from experienced host farmers, as well as theory and practical work at Telford’s campus and Telford farm.
This 44-week programme includes the NZ Certificate in Agriculture (Farming Systems) (Level 3) and the NZ Certificate in Primary Industry Operational Skills (Level 3) qualifications.
The programme will give students the knowledge and skills to:
The programme contains the following:
OPTIONAL
The Community Course to train working dogs can be completed alongside this programme
Graduates may be employed in a range of pasture and livestock management roles, operating vehicles and equipment with limited supervision. For example: shepherd, dairy farm assistant or general farmhand.
Under 20 Years
Applicants under 20 years of age:
Over 20 Years
Applicants aged 20 years or over at the time of enrolment will be considered if they can demonstrate their ability to succeed in the programme.
Interviews for All Applicants
Applicants may be required to attend an interview. Applicants who live some distance from the campus may complete a telephone interview instead.
Copies of applicable certificates or other evidence of prior achievement must be provided before the interview.
Recommended
Applicants are advised to be working towards obtaining their restricted driver's licence.
Applicants should also have a level of physical fitness suitable for farm work.
English Language Requirements
Applicants whose first language is not English, or who come from a country where English is not the language of instruction in schools, must provide evidence of one of the following:
Certificate at Level 3: Recognised English Proficiency Tests
This programme pathways to the Massey Diploma in Agriculture offered at Telford and to further study at other tertiary institutes.