New Zealand Certificate in Business (Small Business) (Level 4)

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New Zealand Certificate in Business (Small Business) (Level 4)

Purpose

The aim of this programme is to produce graduates who can "apply business skills and knowledge to a small business" effectively in order to establish, operate, grow, and sustain that business over time. In practical terms, the programme is designed to enable learners to develop a viable small business venture (or improve an existing one), manage and grow the business's operations and people, and conduct themselves with the professionalism and ethical standards expected in New Zealand's business environment.

By the end of the programme, graduates will have a strong foundation in small business planning, operations, marketing, financial management, and stakeholder management - all contextualized to the scale of a small enterprise and the cultural environment of Aotearoa. The programme also aims to instill confidence, self-management, and cultural awareness in graduates so they can conduct business activities in a manner consistent with Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles and with respect for New Zealand's diverse communities.

Delivery Mode

Face to face , online ,distance

Outcomes

This programme aims to prepare graduates who can prepare a business plan suitable for external stakeholders, operate and improve a small business, manage performance to meet stakeholder requirements (under broad guidance), and behave ethically and inclusively when managing a small business in Aotearoa New Zealand. Learning and assessment are grounded in New Zealand small business conditions while using business planning, reporting, and communication formats that are widely recognised internationally.

  • PLO1: Identify and evaluate a small business opportunity in Aotearoa New Zealand using customer and market information.
  • PLO2: Develop a business plan suitable for external stakeholders that outlines how finance, people, marketing, technology, and stakeholder relationships support business aims.
  • PLO3: Apply basic operational and compliance practices to run a small business and meet stakeholder requirements in an Aotearoa New Zealand context.
  • PLO4: Use simple financial and non-financial information to monitor performance, identify issues, and recommend practical improvements.
  • PLO5: Apply basic marketing and stakeholder relationship strategies through professional communication with customers, suppliers, partners, and advisors.
  • PLO6: Apply ethical and inclusive practices in small business activities, reflect Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles where appropriate, and review personal effectiveness.

Graduates will be awarded the New Zealand Certificate in Business (Small Business) (Level 4) [Ref:2457-3].

Entry Requirements
  • Academic Entry Requirements
    • Applicants must hold NCEA Level 2 or an equivalent qualification.
    • Applicants who do not meet this requirement may be considered for alternative entry if they can demonstrate equivalent knowledge, skills, or experience, including:
      • A Level 3 qualification in Business or a related field.
      • Completion of Year 12 (or equivalent).
      • Relevant work or life experience, such as running a small business or substantial industry experience.
    • Applicants may be required to demonstrate appropriate literacy, numeracy, and study skills through an interview, diagnostic assessment, or portfolio of evidence.
    • Final admission decisions are at the discretion of the Programme Leader.
  • English Language Requirements (International Learners)
    • International applicants must meet the NZQA English language requirements for Level 4 programmes.
    • Accepted evidence includes:
      • IELTS Academic overall score of 5.5 with no band lower than 5.0.
      • TOEFL iBT score of 46.
      • PTE Academic score of 42.
      • NZCEL Level 3 (Academic) with endorsement for Level 4 study.
    • Equivalent evidence may include successful completion of an approved English-medium pathway programme, such as the New Zealand Certificate in English Language (Academic) Level 4.
    • All evidence will be assessed against NZQA requirements.
  • Age Requirement
    • Domestic learners: Minimum age 16 years.
    • International learners: Minimum age 18 years.
    • Domestic applicants aged 16–17 years must meet the academic entry requirements.
    • The age requirement for international learners aligns with pastoral care and visa considerations.
  • Selection Process
    • Applicants may be required to participate in a short interview or provide a brief written statement of interest.
    • This process helps assess motivation, communication ability, and alignment with the programme.
    • Applicants will be notified in writing of the admission decision.
    • Imperial College reserves the right to decline applicants who do not meet entry requirements or who are not yet ready for study.