Program Overview
The Otago Polytechnic New Zealand Certificate in Hairdressing (Level 3) is a one-year, full-time program that teaches fundamental hairdressing techniques. Taught by experienced hairdressers in a real-world salon setting, it covers modules such as salon practices, haircutting, coloring, and professional conduct. Upon completion, students can pursue a hairdressing apprenticeship or continue their education in beauty therapy.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
This program is a New Zealand Certificate in Hairdressing (Level 3) offered by Otago Polytechnic. It is a one-year full-time program designed for individuals who want to learn basic hairdressing techniques and gain confidence in a supportive environment. The program is ideal for those who want to pursue a career in hairdressing or gain foundational skills before entering an apprenticeship.
Outline:
The program is delivered on campus in Dunedin and has intakes in February. The program includes a variety of modules covering various aspects of hairdressing, including:
- Professional Identity: This module focuses on understanding the roles, responsibilities, and attributes of a professional hairdresser. Students will learn to complete hair services that reflect their professional identity.
- Salon Discovery: This module covers salon systems, client bookings, salon policies and practices, and professional communication with diverse clients.
- Reformation Basics: This module covers reformation processes, following instructions, and assisting with chemical reformation services.
- Colour Basics: This module covers color and decolouring processes, and completing coloring services under supervision.
- Client Journey: This module focuses on demonstrating professional behavior and skills during the client's journey and reflecting on professional standards.
- Grand Finale: This module involves designing a collection of hairstyles based on a theme and presenting them to a professional standard.
Teaching:
The program is taught by experienced hairdressers in a real salon setting. The training salon is designed to mimic a real-world working salon, providing students with hands-on experience with clients. The program also includes off-site work experience to further enhance practical skills. Regular visits from industry professionals ensure students are up-to-date with current hairdressing technologies, trends, and products. These visits also provide insights into the qualities and skills that potential employers seek.
Careers:
Upon completion of the program, students can pursue a hairdressing apprenticeship (offered by HITO Te Pūkenga) or continue their education with the New Zealand Certificate in Beauty Therapy (Level 4) offered by Otago Polytechnic Te Pūkenga. The program provides students with the foundational skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the hairdressing industry.
Other:
The program requires approximately 20 hours of directed study per week, including salon and classroom sessions. Students are also expected to spend approximately 15 hours per week on self-directed learning. The hairdressing industry is physically demanding, and applicants are encouraged to consider their physical fitness before applying. The program is subject to minimum numbers, and applicants may be interviewed by the Programme Coordinator.
Domestic Fees Full tuition Standard $7,938 International Fees Full tuition Standard $25,000 Additional costs Personal stationery Ongoing access to a computer, camera, and internet Clothing and footwear similar to what would be worn in the hairdressing industry Optional costings towards extending your hairdressing kit (see below).
Otago Polytechnic
Overview:
Otago Polytechnic is a tertiary education institution located in New Zealand. It offers a wide range of qualifications and courses, from certificates to doctorates, across various fields. The institution emphasizes hands-on learning, providing students with practical skills and experience relevant to their chosen careers.
Services Offered:
Otago Polytechnic offers a variety of services to support students, including:
Accessibility and disability services:
Support for students with disabilities.Campus tours:
Guided tours of the institution's campuses.Accommodation assistance:
Guidance on finding accommodation options, including on-campus housing, flatting, homestay, and renting.Career advice:
Support in exploring career options and developing career plans.Fees and funding information:
Information on tuition fees and available funding options, including scholarships and government schemes.International student support:
Specific services and resources for international students, including information on English language requirements, entry requirements, and international partnerships.Māori and Pasifika culture and support:
Resources and support for Māori and Pasifika students.Student support services:
A range of services to assist students with their academic and personal well-being.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Otago Polytechnic provides a welcoming and inclusive learning environment with a focus on student support. Students can expect:
Friendly and inclusive atmosphere:
A supportive and welcoming community.Modern facilities:
Access to state-of-the-art equipment and technology.Real-world experiences:
Opportunities to gain practical experience through internships, projects, and industry placements.Flexible study options:
A variety of learning formats, including on-campus, online, and blended learning.Sustainability initiatives:
A commitment to environmental sustainability.Rainbow Tick Certification:
A commitment to creating an inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ students and staff.Key Reasons to Study There:
Educational excellence:
High-quality teaching and a strong focus on student success.Hands-on learning:
Practical, skills-based learning that prepares students for the workforce.Personal growth and support:
A supportive environment with a range of services to assist students.Flexible study options:
A variety of learning formats to suit individual needs and preferences.Free fees and scholarships:
Opportunities to reduce or eliminate tuition costs.Academic Programs:
Otago Polytechnic offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Adventure & Tourism:
Programs in avalanche safety, bike mechanics, hospitality, outdoor education, snowsports, and tourism.Agriculture & Animal Healthcare:
Programs in animal care, avian wildlife, beekeeping, high-country farming, and veterinary nursing.Art:
Programs in ceramics, digital media and photography, and visual arts.Business:
Programs in accounting, administration, applied management, event management, human resources, professional development, and sales & marketing.Community Services:
Programs in addiction, disability support, Hauora Māori, mental health, and social services.Construction:
Programs in architecture, carpentry, construction management, and stonemasonry.Design:
Programs in architecture, communication design, digital media, fashion design, game design and development, and product design.Education & Culture:
Programs in English language, outdoor education, teaching, and Te Reo & Tikanga.Engineering:
Programs in civil, electrical, and mechanical engineering.Food & Hospitality:
Programs in brewing, cooking, culinary arts, and hospitality.Hair & Beauty:
Programs in beauty therapy and hairdressing.Health:
Programs in health pathways, massage therapy, mental health, midwifery, nursing, and occupational therapy.Horticulture:
Programs in amenity horticulture, arboriculture, fruit production, gardening, groundskeeping, nursery, and winemaking.Information Technology:
Programs in computing, game development, and information technology.Sport:
Programs in groundskeeping, gym & personal training, massage therapy, outdoor education, sport science, and snowsports.Trades & Pre-trades:
Programs in automotive, bike mechanics, carpentry, electrical trades, mechanical engineering, plumbing, and transport.Other:
- New Zealand University Entrance, or
- Overall Academic or General IELTS 5.0 with no individual band score lower than 5.0 (achieved in one test completed in the last two years), or
- Acceptable alternative evidence of the required IELTS (see here for NZQA proficiency table and here for list of recognised proficiency tests).
