Other Science
A course by
Ara Institute of Canterbury
Meet the needs of the commercial science sector with practical STEM and laboratory skills, preparing you to work in operational roles across the science industry.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Ara Institute of Canterbury, Christchurch
It will take a total of 1 year

Understand and apply principles of chemistry, biology, and microbiology in practical and operational settings.

Build and demonstrate teamwork and professional communication skills for science-based organisations.

Gain hands-on experience using modern laboratory equipment and techniques for routine analysis in workplaces.
This diploma equips students with foundational theory and applied practical skills for laboratory and science workplace environments. The curriculum covers chemistry, applied microbiology, professional teamwork, laboratory skills, ethics, quality management, and statistical analysis — all highly relevant to modern laboratories and manufacturing environments. Graduates can pursue technician roles in medical, food, manufacturing and research labs, or continue with higher-level science study.
What you need to know first
NCEA Level 2, including 14 credits in science OR Level 4 qualification in science or equivalent
Alternative entry possible via demonstrated equivalent skills through work, study, or life experience

Laboratory Science
Food Manufacturing
Medical Testing
Quality Assurance

Laboratory technician in medical, food, and manufacturing industries
Quality control technician
Other Science
A course by
Ara Institute of Canterbury
Meet the needs of the commercial science sector with practical STEM and laboratory skills, preparing you to work in operational roles across the science industry.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Ara Institute of Canterbury, Christchurch
It will take a total of 1 year

Understand and apply principles of chemistry, biology, and microbiology in practical and operational settings.

Build and demonstrate teamwork and professional communication skills for science-based organisations.

Gain hands-on experience using modern laboratory equipment and techniques for routine analysis in workplaces.
This diploma equips students with foundational theory and applied practical skills for laboratory and science workplace environments. The curriculum covers chemistry, applied microbiology, professional teamwork, laboratory skills, ethics, quality management, and statistical analysis — all highly relevant to modern laboratories and manufacturing environments. Graduates can pursue technician roles in medical, food, manufacturing and research labs, or continue with higher-level science study.
What you need to know first
NCEA Level 2, including 14 credits in science OR Level 4 qualification in science or equivalent
Alternative entry possible via demonstrated equivalent skills through work, study, or life experience

Laboratory Science
Food Manufacturing
Medical Testing
Quality Assurance

Laboratory technician in medical, food, and manufacturing industries
Quality control technician
Research technician
Operational roles in science-related manufacturing
Research technician
Operational roles in science-related manufacturing