About qualifications and credentials

Learn about the types of qualifications and credentials on the NZQCF

About qualifications and credentials

All qualifications on the New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework (NZQCF) fit into a defined qualification type. The qualification-type definitions include:

Purpose

A strategic purpose statement identifies the qualification’s use and relevance to learners, industry and the communities. The statement should also acknowledge the cultural and social aspirations of Māori, Pasifika and other communities, where these are reflected in the need for the qualification.

Outcomes

All qualifications contain outcome statements which describe the knowledge, skills and attributes of a graduate. The outcome statements include graduate profiles, education pathways and employment pathways.

Credit requirements

Each qualification has minimum credit requirements.

The credit value relates to the amount of learning in the qualification. One credit represents 10 notional hours of learning and assessment. Notional hours are the amount of time a learner will typically spend studying, including self-directed learning, homework and assignments.

A learner studying full-time can usually earn 120 credits in a year.

Entry and relationship with other qualifications

Qualifications may also include requirements for entry into the qualification and what further study the qualification can lead to.

Reviews of qualifications and credentials

All qualifications and credentials listed on the NZQCF are reviewed regularly.

Reviews make sure qualifications and credentials remain relevant and appropriate and meet the needs of learners, industry and professional or academic communities.

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