Whitecliffe Pre-Degree Pathway!


Two Certificates, One Degree… YOUR FUTURE!


Didn’t get UE? Unsure about Year 13?

Your creative future starts here at Whitecliffe!


Whitecliffe’s Foundation Year is the perfect stepping stone for students who want to explore their creative potential, gain practical skills, and prepare for degree-level study. Whether you’re unsure about your next step or want to build a strong foundation before committing to a Bachelor’s degree, this programme is designed for you.



Why Choose the Foundation Year?


How It Works:


During your Foundation Year, you’ll study two 60-credit certificate programmes over the course of 2025. You can choose from:

Each certificate is designed to give you a practical, hands-on experience in the creative industries. You’ll develop key skills, gain exposure to different career pathways, and build confidence in your creative abilities.

At the end of the year, you’ll have earned two recognised qualifications, giving you the freedom to choose your next step.


Pathway to a Bachelor’s Degree


Once you complete your Foundation Year, you can progress into one of Whitecliffe’s renowned Bachelor’s degree programmes:


This structured pathway allows you to explore, experiment, and refine your interests before committing to a degree.



Who Can Apply?


Our Foundation Year is open to students who meet the following criteria:


Finished NCEA Level 2 (or equivalent) – No need for University Entrance (UE).

Vocational Pathway Students – If you’re looking for a practical, hands-on learning experience, this is a great fit.

No Prior Experience Required – If you have a passion for creativity and a willingness to learn, we welcome you!

Available at both our Manukau and Symonds St. Campuses.



Financial Support and Scholarships:

  1. StudyLink Fees Free: Eligible students can apply for StudyLink Fees Free for the first certificate they enrol in (subject to eligibility criteria).
  2. Whitecliffe Scholarship for the Second Certificate: You will receive a full fee scholarship from Whitecliffe for the second certificate, making it even more affordable to explore two creative disciplines.
  3. Bachelor’s Degree Scholarship: If you choose to progress to a Bachelor’s degree, Whitecliffe will offer a 6-month fee scholarship for the first year of study, helping to ease the transition into higher education.


Start Your Creative Journey Today


Whether you’re passionate about fashion, digital media, fine arts, or technology, Whitecliffe’s Foundation Year gives you the time, flexibility, and support to explore your options and build a strong foundation for a successful creative career.



Applications for 2025 are now open.



Apply today and take the first step towards an exciting future in the creative industries!