Overview
*Subject to NZQA approval.
Gain a sound understanding of the accounting functions that are required in a business.
You can understand business accounting support
Have you thought about working in an accounts role? Are you thinking about making a move from business administration into an accounts role but need more confidence and knowledge to take that step? Perhaps you are already working in an organisation and want more responsibility and challenge. It could be time to consider upskilling to make that move a reality.
This qualification will give you a sound understanding of the accounting functions that are required in a business. You will gain the knowledge to take on an entry level accounting support role within an organisation, contributing to performance and productivity. Make your move now!
Who is this for?
You may be working in an administration role and want to take the next step in your career. Perhaps you want a career in bookkeeping, but you don’t have the skills, knowledge or confidence to apply for a role. Or maybe you are looking to start your career training. Whatever your circumstances, the New Zealand Certificate in Business (Accounting Support Services) will provide you with the knowledge you need to show you are ready for a new challenge!
Career opportunities include Bookkeeper, Accounts officer, Payroll officer, Sole-charge administrator, Accounts payable/receivable or Accounts Assistant.
What you will learn
You will gain skills in:
- Accounting roles and functions in a business environment - The New Zealand Certificate in Business (Accounting Support Services) (Level 4) covers Payroll and Accounting Software through to Accounting Taxation. If you want to work in an accounts role then you will need to know what functions are performed in managing a business’ accounts processing and who does what.
- Technique and Technology - Technology in the sector is a fast-moving machine. While accounting basics will never change, the technology and software available to support the sector is changing at speed. You will learn how to use available software in your day to day accounts role.
- Reducing Risk - Businesses must comply with financial controls. If you work in this area you need to know what those controls and your business compliance obligations are. Having this knowledge will reduce business risk.
- Confidence - Completion of the programme will ensure you have the confidence to contribute effectively, and with sound knowledge, to your team or organisation outputs. Knowing that you have the expertise to respond to questions, issues, and requests for information appropriately will build your confidence, meaning your contribution is enhanced.
Entry Requirements
All applicants must:
- be at least 16 years old at the time the programme commences.
- be able to understand follow, and respond to instructions given in English.
- be physically able to complete the programme specific outcomes
All applicants must:
- be at least 16 years old at the time the programme commences.
- be able to read, write, and communicate in English at a basic level.
- be physically able to complete the programme-specific outcomes.
All applicants must:
- be at least 16 years old at the time the programme commences.
- be able to read, write, and communicate in English at a basic level.
- be physically able to complete the programme-specific outcomes.
Applicants for whom English is not a first language must have an IELTS score of 5 with no band score lower than 5; or an accepted international equivalence.
All applicants must:
- be at least 16 years old at the time the programme commences.
- be able to read, write, and communicate in English at a basic level.
- be physically able to complete the programme-specific outcomes.
Applicants for whom English is not a first language must have an IELTS score of 5.5 with no band score lower than 5; or an accepted international equivalence.
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria:
- New Zealand Certificate in Business (Introduction to Small Business) (Level 3), or
- New Zealand Certificate in Retail (Level 3), or
- New Zealand Certificate in Business (Administration and Technology) (Level 3), or
- NCEA (Level 2), or
- A New Zealand Certificate in Foundation Studies (Level 2), or
- A qualification at Level 2 or above, with evidence of literacy and numeracy abilities equivalent to NCEA (Level 1), or
- Evidence of relevant knowledge and experience, including literacy and numeracy abilities equivalent to NCEA (Level 1).
All applicants must have a level of English sufficient to be able to study at this level. Applicants for whom English is not a first language must have an IELTS General or Academic score of 5.5 with no band score lower than 5; or an accepted international equivalence; or New Zealand Certificate in English Language (Applied) (Level 3).
Intakes & Applications
Dates & Bookings
Learn online with Open Polytechnic, with regional support by NorthTec:
- Access to a NorthTec facilities – computer/meeting room access, library and student support.
- Local workshops – optional workshops where you can be supported in your online learning with others studying the same programme as you. Located in Whangārei, Ngāwhā, Kerikeri, Kaitaia, & other campuses as demand requires.
Youth Guarantee Fund*
If you are aged 16 to 24, you could study for FREE as part of the government's Youth Guarantee fund. To qualify for the Youth Guarantee fund, you must meet the following criteria:
- Complete an application for a course that is covered by the Youth Guarantee fund.
- Be a NZ citizen or permanent resident.
- Be 16 to 24 years old at the time the course starts. Learners who are 15 years old and hold Ministry approved early leaving exemption from their school may also be eligible. This exemption must be in place before the course starts.
Priority places will be given to students who:
- have not yet achieved NCEA Level 1 or NCEA Level 2; or
- have completed a Level 1 or Level 2 qualification through a Youth Guarantee provision programme.
All free study is subject to funding confirmation. Proof of residency status is required. Programme entry criteria may apply. Eligibility for student allowances or student loans may vary. Contact Studylink for more information.
* All fees and study costs found on this website are indicative course fees only and exclude the Compulsory Student Services Fee (CSSF) levy and any course-related costs. The 2025 CSSF levy is $300 per full-time equivalent student (120 credits) for programmes level 3 and above.
Unless otherwise stated, prices are in New Zealand Dollars including GST. Prices that are not explicitly indicated as International are the domestic price and may differ for International students. For programmes longer than one academic year in duration, the fees quoted are for the first year. Final study costs depends on a number of factors including the courses you select to study. All fees and study costs are subject to confirmation, including zero fees courses.
Courses and programmes may be cancelled, postponed or have their content or configuration changed from time to time (including during the academic year) at the discretion of NorthTec. See our full Terms and conditions.
Additional Information
Employment Pathways
About Te Pūkenga
Following the Government’s announcement of its intention to disestablish Te Pūkenga | New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology, please be assured that your programme of study or training will continue as planned while we work through the details of how this change will be implemented.
We are committed to ensuring that organisational changes that need to be made to meet the Government’s expectations do not impact the delivery of our programmes and training for our learners and employers.
If you need access to learner support services or have any concerns, please contact us.
