Term 1, 2026

We teach creativity differently. Our approach is built around the Creative Spiral, developed by our founder Jonathan Milne — a model for continuous growth, reflection and experimentation. You’ll be guided by practising artists who are also experienced Kaiako (tutors/mentors) and supported to learn in a way that suits you.

New Zealand Certificate in Creativity (Level 4)

• 20 weeks full-time / 40 weeks part-time

New Zealand Diploma in Creativity (Level 5)

• 45 weeks full-time / 90 weeks part-time

New Zealand Diploma in Creativity (Level 6)

• 45 weeks full-time / 90 weeks part-time

Diploma of Art & Creativity (Advanced) (Level 7)

• 45 weeks full-time / 90 weeks part-time

Not at all. Our programmes are hands-on and practical. We encourage creative thinking and research skills, and there are no exams or ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach.

2026 Fees

New Zealand Certificate in Creativity (Level 4)

Fees $3,913.00

• Full-time (20 weeks) or
• Part-time (40 weeks)

New Zealand Diploma in Creativity (Level 5)

Fees $7,038.00

• Full-time (45 weeks)
• Part-time (90 weeks)

New Zealand Diploma in Creativity (Level 6)

Fees $7,044.10

• Full-time (45 weeks)
• Part-time (90 weeks)

Diploma of Art and Creativity (Advanced) (Level 7): $6,909.00

Diploma of Art and Creativity (Advanced) (Level 7) Part Time 2026 Year (45 weeks): $3,454.00 

2026 International Student Fees

New Zealand Certificate Creativity (NZQA Level 4)


• Full-time (6 months): $13,464.54

New Zealand Diploma of Creativity (NZQA Level 5)


• Full-time (1 year): $24,218.84

New Zealand Diploma of Creativity (NZQA Level 6)


• Full-time (1 year): $24,221.25

Diploma of Art and Creativity (Advanced) (NZQA Level 7)


• Full-time (1 year): $23,005.8

Please note:

• International students must pay fees in full to be eligible for a study visa
• Immigration New Zealand only issues a student study permit to full-time students

Fee Payment

Fee payment is to be arranged or paid in full to THE LEARNING CONNEXION LTD. before the programme start date. Please contact the Accounts Manager for information and assistance.

Student Fee Protection and Student Fee Indemnification

In accordance with section 236A of the Education Act 1989 and subsequent amendments, The Learning Connexion has an approved Trust Account for Student Fee Protection and Student Fee Indemnification. The Trust Account is administered by Peter Nankivell of Count On Us Ltd.
Note: Fees are subject to change without notice.

Withdrawal from a Programme

Students may withdraw from the programme they have enrolled in, with a full refund of tuition fees, within the first ten working days of the starting date of their programme. After that time, The Learning Connexion Ltd has no obligation to make refunds.
Students must apply for a withdrawal in writing and. Refunds for overseas students will be made at the exchange rate of the day the withdrawal is approved for action.

Fee notes – please read:

• All fees are GST inclusive and in New Zealand dollars
• All fees are for 2026 enrolments

On-site students begin at the start of each 12-week term. (Terms 1-4)

Distance Delivery (Study from Home) students can start on the 1st, 4th, or 7th Monday of each term.

When your programme starts, you’ll study for 9 weeks followed by a 3-week break.

Term 1             2 February – 3 April

Term 2             28 April – 26 June

Term 3             20 July – 18 September

Term 4             12 October – 11 December

Yes — you can complete any of our art courses and qualifications via Study from Home, with full support from your creativity kaiako (mentor), online resources, and peer discussion groups. See How to Study.

Absolutely. All programmes are available part-time or full-time. Many students fit their study around work or family life. You’ll just need to show regular, consistent engagement with your learning.

No! Our Certificate in Creativity is ideal for beginners and people returning to study. You’ll explore different art forms and build a solid foundation in creativity.

If you’ve already been creating or have studied art/design before, you may be able to enrol directly into our Diploma level programmes.

To do this, submit a portfolio showing your skills in at least three visual media (e.g. painting, drawing, sculpture), along with a brief written statement. Applicants for Diploma of Art & Creativity (Advanced) (Level 7) will also need to attend an interview. See more about Entry Requirements.

Yes — you’ll supply your own materials. Costs will vary depending on the media you choose to work in. If you’re budget-conscious, we can suggest more affordable creative options.

Unfortunately, you can’t pause your enrolment once started. However, the programmes are designed to be flexible — if you’re facing challenges, talk to Programme Support.

Yes! If space is available, you can attend Makers Week and Weekday Practical Classes as a casual student. We also offer Short Art Courses throughout the year.

Our campus in Taitā, Lower Hutt is easy to reach — we’re just a short walk from Taitā Train Station, and close to major bus routes.

We also offer free onsite parking for students.

Whether you’re commuting from Wellington, the Hutt Valley, or further afield, getting to TLC is simple and stress-free.

Creativity is valuable in many industries. Our graduates have gone on to become artists, illustrators, designers, florists, photographers, tattoo artists, creative arts administrators, and more. Some create their own jobs and run their own businesses.

Definitely. TLC students — both on-site and Study from Home — connect through our private Facebook group Sharespace, online group sessions, and student exhibitions. It’s a welcoming, supportive and inspiring creative network.

It’s easy — just click here to apply online or contact Admissions – admissions@tlc.ac.nz or calling 0800 278 769

Our programmes are recognised by StudyLink. To find out if you’re eligible contact StudyLink or call 0800 88 99 00 to check.

Yes — international students are welcome to study with us.

We offer two enrolment options, depending on where you’re located:

If you’re living outside Aotearoa New Zealand, you can enrol in any of our qualifications through our Study from Home option. You’ll receive the same support, mentoring, and feedback as on-campus students — all delivered online.

Please note international students studying by distance delivery are not eligible for a New Zealand student visa.

International students studying on campus in New Zealand

If you’re already in New Zealand (or planning to move here), you can enrol as an international student and study creative art in person at our campus in Wellington. You’ll need a valid student visa and must meet programme entry requirements, including proof of English language proficiency (such as IELTS or equivalent).

See our International Enrolment Guide for more information.

If you have questions about enrolment, visas, or programme suitability, our International Student Coordinator is here to help — email m.mundell@tlc.ac.nz.

Tours run Monday – Friday, 9am-4pm – get in touch to book a time that suits you!

Give us a call – 0800  278 769 or email info@tlc.ac.nz

Call us on 0800 278 769 or email admissions@tlc.ac.nz