Graduate Diploma in Laboratory Technology
Expand on your science knowledge and skills for a career as a laboratory technician.
Our one-year programme has been designed in collaboration with New Zealand employers. It will provide you with specific knowledge, practical skills and relevant analytical techniques for work as a laboratory technician. These skills include critical thinking, problem solving and the ability to interpret results.
You'll learn about laboratory quality management practice and gain reporting skills aligned with international quality standards. You’ll also enhance your ability to work independently and within groups.
Your personal and interpersonal skills—such as punctuality, team work and time management— will be further developed throughout the programme.
The programme can be studied full-time (1 year) or part time (up to 3 years).
If you have any questions about the programme please contact the programme leader sciencesocialpractice@ara.ac.nz
Please note: this programme will only proceed if there are sufficient enrolments.
Fees for 2026
A Bachelor’s degree in science or recent relevant experience
Still want to study but don't meet the Academic Requirements?
- If you show that you have equivalent skills for tertiary study gained through study, work and/or life experience, you may be able to gain alternative entry.
- Note: The number of courses you have to complete for this qualification may be reduced where you have relevant credits from previous study, or evidence of similar learning or experience in the workplace.
What if English is not my first Language?
If English is not your first language, we want to make sure that you will be successful in your chosen programme of study.
- Please provide a result from a test or qualification on the acceptable alternatives
- If you are a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent Resident, complete an Admission and Enrolment form and Ara will contact you regarding a free assessment.
- If you are not a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent resident, book an IELTS or other test through the Ara Examination Centre or in your home country.
- IELTS scores used must be taken from a single IELTS Test Report Form and are valid for two years from the date of the test.
- The English Language requirements for this programme are higher than the minimum set by NZQA, therefore; applicants who have achieved NCEA Level 3 University Entrance may be required to provide evidence of English Language skills.
Overall IELTS 6.0 Academic
- 6.5 Listening
- 6.0 Reading
- 6.0 Writing
- 6.5 Speaking
Funding assistance
If you face unexpected financial hardship during your studies, we have several funds that you can apply for. These are designed to enable you to continue your current course of study. We also have a wide range of scholarships and awards that can provide financial assistance.
Find out moreCareer opportunities
With hands-on laboratory/industry experience, you’ll be well positioned to obtain employment in a range of laboratory fields including health, animal, food, manufacturing, research and environmental laboratories.
Graduate Diploma in Laboratory Technology
Expand on your science knowledge and skills for a career as a laboratory technician.
| Information | |
|---|---|
| Type | Graduate Certificate / Diploma |
| Code | CH3700 |
| Next starts | February 2026 |
| Application close date | Accepted throughout the year, but preferably before 30 November. |
| May be available for Study Visa? | Yes |
| International application close date | 20 January for February start |
| Credits | 120 |
| Level | 7 |
| Additional Equipment/Fees | $500 approx for textbooks per year, travel to work placements |
| May be eligible for Studylink? | Yes |
| Available Part time | Yes |
| May be eligible for Fees Free? | Yes |
| Reference | CH3700-GDLT |
Fees for 2026
With an internationally-recognised Ara qualification, the world is your oyster. Our graduates can be found working and making a difference across the globe…
MoreCredit Recognition
If you have prior relevant experience or previous related study credits, you may be eligible for credit recognition towards this qualification.
Find out moreDocuments
- Admission & Enrolment Form PDF, 431 KB
- International Application Form PDF, 358 KB
Area of Interest
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