New level descriptors and qualification definitions for NZQF
29 Apr 2011
NZQA has published new level descriptors and qualification type definitions for the ten-level New Zealand Qualifications Framework (NZQF).
A technical working group comprising international experts, the Ministry of Education, NZQA, sector peak bodies and individuals from across the tertiary education sector developed the definitions for consultation with the sector and testing by an NZQA working group.
In the main, the proposed level descriptors and qualification types were found to be clear, consistent and transparent. Submissions supported the proposed shift to describing qualifications in terms of their outcomes, and applying common descriptors across all levels and types of qualifications.
The changes allow the differences between a level 5 certificate and diploma, for example, to be clearly seen and understood. The levels are described in terms of the knowledge and skills a graduate at any level should have, as well as how that knowledge and skill should be able to be applied, for example under supervision or independently.
The new definitions and descriptors are contained in an updated version of Requirements for listing and maintaining qualifications on the NZQF (PDF, 303KB).
All qualifications on the NZQF must be consistent with section 3 of the above document. All new qualifications at levels 1-6 must also meet the specific listing requirements outlined in section 4 of the policy document.
The original version (PDF, 527KB) of this document is also available.
People wanting to develop new qualifications should in the first instance check the Qualifications Review Schedules to see when qualifications in that field are being reviewed. This will enable developers to work with others in their sector to ensure that the range of available qualifications meets industry needs without duplication.