• Open entry. 

Selection criteria

Preference will be given to applicants with a minimum of NCEA Level 1 and four years secondary education OR the National Certificate in Building, Construction and Allied Trades Skills (BCATS) (Level 2) programme. 

Please note: The BCATS programme is offered through trades academy, secondary schools and some private training establishments.

Trade Skills 1 - 15 credits

Develop preliminary skills and knowledge for working in the construction industry

• Perform basic building calculations
• Use common tools and equipment safely in the construction environment
• Develop core knowledge of timber, concrete and reinforcing steel
• Apply safe work practices as they relate to the construction industry.

Trade Skills 2 - 30 credits

Enhance your trade skills knowledge and gain practical experience on a construction site or in a construction-related industry.

• Determine appropriate construction sequences on the project build
• Explain building legislation as it relates to the construction industry
• Communicate effectively with others while in a work environment
• Reflect on health and safety process, procedures and the work undertaken during work experience.

Foundations - 15 credits

Learn how to set out and prepare to construct foundation structures (up to and including floor level) using specified materials.

• Read and use plans and specifications to set out a site for the construction of foundations
• Construct a foundation safely and in accordance with the plans and specifications
• Explain commonly used foundation types and materials used in the construction industry.

Structures - 30 credits

Gain an understanding of how to construct walls and roofs using specified materials.

• Read and use plans and specifications for wall and roof framing
• Build wall and roof structures safely and in accordance with the plans and specifications
• Explain commonly used wall and roof framing materials and methods used in the construction industry. 

Exterior Claddings - 15 credits

Develop an understanding of how to install external cladding and roofing to a structure using specified materials.

• Read and use plans and specifications for exterior cladding
• Install exterior cladding, exterior joinery and roof coverings in the external envelope safely and in accordance with the plans and specifications
• Explain commonly used exterior claddings and roof coverings used in the exterior envelope of a building.

Interior Lining - 15 credits

Learn how to install interior linings, trim, fixtures and fittings using specified materials while working with others in a safe working environment.

• Read and use plans and specifications for interior linings, trim, fixtures and fittings
• Install interior linings, trim, fixtures and fittings safely and in accordance with the plans and specifications
• Explain commonly used interior linings, trim, fixtures and fittings.

Hand tools are included in the programme fee but the equipment will remain the property of Otago Polytechnic. Depending on what you own before starting the course, additional costs may be up to $600-$700 (approx). Assistance with personal equipment is available through WINZ under Course Related Costs. 

Please click here for a course equipment list.

Usual timetable hours are Monday to Thursday 8.30am-4.30pm with a half day on Friday.

You are required to complete at least six weeks of work experience and up to three hours of additional self-directed study a week.

Dunedin campus: classes are held in L Block, 100 Anzac Avenue. Click here for a map. 

Student loans and allowances are for domestic students only. For information about student loans and allowances please visit the Studylink website. It is important to apply for your student loan/allowance at the same time as you apply for this programme, due to the length of time Studylink take to process. Loan/allowance applications can be cancelled at any time if you decide to withdraw your programme application or if it is unsuccessful. 

While every effort is made to ensure that this sheet is accurate, Otago Polytechnic reserves the right to amend, alter or withdraw any of the contained information. The fees shown in this document are indicative ONLY. Both domestic and international fees are subject to change and are dependent on the development and implementation of Government policies. Please note that additional fees may from time to time be required for external examination, NZQA fees and/or additional material fees.