Level 5
35 weeksTake your passion to the next level, building on the knowledge and techniques developed in the Certificate in Cookery (Level 4) and gain the expertise required for progression as a chef in the food industry.
If your goal is to become a professional chef this diploma is for you. You’ll graduate with the advanced cookery skills, knowledge and experience needed to succeed in today’s kitchens.
Learn about a range of international cuisines, the finer points of running a commercial kitchen and how to create original menus. This Level 5 Diploma, is ideal for those who already have cooking experience or have completed our Level 4 course and are ready to take it up a notch.
You’ll also have an opportunity to secure an internship where you’ll gain invaluable work experience.
Practical skills in cooking and presenting a range of advanced food items using a variety of production methods.
Culinary influences throughout history.
How to create and present an advanced range of international cuisines
How to design a commercial kitchen layout
Menu development and kitchen management skills
Have fun during your study on a foodie field trip.
The opportunity to secure an internship where you’ll gain invaluable industry experience.
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New Zealand Diploma in Cookery (Advanced)(Level 5) (Cookery Strand)
Academic Criteria
Hold a Cookery - related qualification at Level 4 NZQCF or
Have current and equivalent skills and experience in a Cookery - related role
English Language
Domestic students with ESOL: must be proficient in English language.
International students: Academic or General IELTS score of 5.5 with no band score lower than 5.0, or equivalent NZQA Recognised International English Proficiency.
DOMESTIC STUDENTS
Campus Tuition Fees: $10,189
Student Services Levy: $400
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
Campus Tuition Fees: $23,100
Resource & Admin Fee: $2,400
STUDENT LOANS
If you meet certain conditions you may be eligible for a student loan and allowances.
Find out if you meet the conditions by calling StudyLink on Freephone 0800 88 99 00 or visit www.studylink.govt.nz.
You can find out more about this qualification by visiting the Government’s career website.
Become a sous chef in the big hotels and restaurants of the world
Junior sous chef
Restaurant sous chef
Hotel sous chef
Café Head chef
Industrial catering sous chef
Medical Facility First Cook
Ready to take the next step?
The Certificate in Cookery (Level 4) builds your cooking skills and your confidence in a commercial kitchen, while this diploma develops more advanced cookery and kitchen management skills. You’ll study kitchen management and menu development, learn to design a commercial kitchen layout and cook an advanced range of international cuisines. Both courses take 35 weeks to complete.
No. You can enter with any cookery-related qualification at NZQCF Level 4, or with current and equivalent skills and experience in a cookery role. Our Certificate in Cookery (Level 4) meets that academic requirement. Domestic students who speak English as an additional language may also need to meet English-language proficiency requirements.
Yes. Relevant current skills and experience in a cookery role may meet the Level 5 entry requirements, even if you don’t hold a Level 4 qualification. The Diploma may suit you if you already cook professionally and want to develop your kitchen management skills. It covers commercial kitchen management, menu development and advanced cookery techniques. You’ll also have the opportunity to secure an internship during your studies, giving you the chance to gain additional industry experience.
The Diploma develops advanced cookery and kitchen management skills relevant to roles such as:
Junior sous chef
Restaurant sous chef
Hotel sous chef
Café head chef
Industrial catering sous chef
Medical facility first cook
Yes. Junior sous chef, restaurant sous chef, hotel sous chef and industrial catering sous chef are among the potential career pathways associated with this qualification. You’ll develop kitchen management, menu development and advanced production skills that are relevant to sous chef work. You’ll also have the opportunity to secure an internship, where you can apply your learning and gain experience in a working kitchen.
Sous chefs typically need strong practical cooking skills, organisation, communication and the ability to support day-to-day kitchen operations. The Level 5 Diploma develops relevant skills through advanced food production, menu development, kitchen management and commercial kitchen design. You’ll also explore international cuisines and culinary history to broaden your culinary knowledge.
The Culinary Collective is one of the trading names for the registered Private Training Establishment New Zealand Management Academies Ltd (NZMA). Your enrolment is with NZMA and your qualification is issued by NZMA. © 2026
