Course Overview

Do you love buildings and fancy designing your own, creating something that future generations will enjoy? 

The construction industry is taking off and it needs lots more architectural technicians to draw all the new buildings that our growing population needs.

This practical, fun course develops efficient technical draughting skills – focusing on what is and isn’t important across a broad range of work – which means our graduates are highly prized by employers.  You’ll learn how to ‘connect the dots’ between an architect and a builder, producing the vital set of legal drawings – or plans – that each construction project depends on.

Topics include construction methods, building legislation, design principles, working drawings, the tender process, feasibility issues and contract administration, with a huge focus on the draughting software programme ArchiCAD.

Our motivated tutors are experts in the field and and provide all the support you need to succeed. If you’re an accurate, detail oriented person who loves technical drawing and discussing ideas with people, this is the course for you.

Upon successfully completing the requirements you'll receive the award of:

  • New Zealand Diploma in Architectural Technology (Level 6)
Locations Tauranga
Next intake Feb 2025 View more details
Study options

2 years full-time, including holidays (if applicable)

Total credits 240
StudyLink assistance Available
Indicative Fees $7,569 per year for domestic students View full fees information
Eligibility View entry criteria

To see the information for international students change your location using the button at the top right of the screen.

Career opportunities

  • Architectural Technician
  • CAD Technician
  • Draughtsperson for Truss or Frame Manufacturers
  • Draughtsperson for an Engineer, Landscape Designer, Interior Designer or Kitchen & Bathroom Designer
  • Building Certification/Building Inspector

Topics you'll cover

Year One

  • Industry Roles and Legislation
  • Tender Processes
  • Building Materials
  • Construction Drawing
  • Small Building Construction
  • Building Feasibility
  • Documentation for Small Buildings
  • Construction Detailing

Year Two

  • Environmental Impact
  • Commercial Construction
  • Design Theory
  • Preliminary Design
  • Building Services
  • Developed Design
  • Virtual Design and Documentation
  • Documentation for Medium Buildings

Course Fees

Indicative Fees * $7,569 per year for domestic students

Your final fee may vary if:

  • you have a choice of topics/papers to study
  • the qualification excludes GST
  • there are extra course materials to purchase
  • student levies apply

We’ll let you know if any of these apply to you.

* Important fee information, and hints and tips

Help with fees

Are you Eligible for Free Fees?

There are several ways to take advantage of free study at Toi Ohomai. Find out how on our Fees Free FAQ page.

Student Loans and Allowances

This course meets the requirements for student allowance and student loan applications through StudyLink.

  • A student loan helps to pay for your course fees (the compulsory fees), study materials e.g. books, equipment, and living costs. You'll have to pay this money back.
  • A student allowance is a weekly payment that can help with your living expenses while you're studying. You don't have to pay the money back.

Find out more and apply at studylink.govt.nz

Scholarships

Scholarships are one way you might be able to get some financial help. Any scholarships specifically related to this course are shown below, otherwise check out the full list of scholarships promoted by Toi Ohomai.


Course Entry Information

Entry criteria

There are no minimum academic requirements (open entry).

However it is recommended that you:

  • have a minimum of 48 credits in four subjects including English and Maths, OR
  • are able to demonstrate equivalent knowledge and skills

Standard Entry Criteria

Admission, entry, selection, and enrolment into programmes will be in accordance with the Academic Regulations and/or, where approved, specific programme regulations.

English language requirements

IELTS Academic score of 6 with no band score lower than 5.5 or completed New Zealand Certificate in English Language Level 4 with the Academic Endorsement or meets a relevant English Proficiency Outcome as outlined by NZQA.


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Course Locations and Intake Information

Location Campus Start Date
Tauranga Windermere Campus 17 Feb 2025 Apply now

Study options

  • 2 years full-time, including holidays (if applicable)

Important dates

View calendar of start dates and events

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Further Study Options

Courses Offered at Toi Ohomai

Courses Currently Under Development at Toi Ohomai, or Offered at Other Institutions

  • Bachelor of Architecture - Victoria University or the University of Auckland
  • Bachelor of Architectural Technology - Unitec