You will need a working laptop or PC with the following minimum specification:

• 16GB memory
• 128GB SSD or HDD hard drive, with at least 10 GB free
• camera, microphone and speaker

Power BI is a key tool used in the programme and currently works best on Windows devices. Candidates using Mac laptops may face technical issues, which can make the learning experience more challenging. To ensure a smoother experience, we recommend using a Windows laptop for this course whenever possible.​

Optionally, an additional monitor will make your life better 😊

Here's a comparison of all three:

Data Analyst Accelerator (12 weeks full time/ 24 weeks part time)

• Who it's for: Beginners looking to explore data analytics

• What you'll learn: Descriptive analytics, Excel, Power BI, SQL, storytelling, intro to AI tools

• Outcomes: Build foundational skills + confidence

AI-Powered Advanced Data Analyst Accelerator (10 weeks full time or 20 weeks part time)

• Who it's for: Those with basic data knowledge or Launchpad grads

• What you'll learn: Predictive analytics, Python, Microsoft Fabrics, Databricks, PySpark, Machine Learning

• Outcomes: Portfolio + industry work experience (10 weeks full time included)

AI-Powered Data Analyst Diploma (32 weeks full time or 54 weeks part time)

• Who it's for: Learners ready to go from beginner to job-ready

• What you'll learn: Everything from both the Data Analyst Accelerator and Advanced Accelerator—full journey

• Outcomes: Graduate with a professional portfolio + work placement  experience (10 weeks full time included

‍

• 2026-Ready Content: Fully updated to reflect current tools and business reporting practices.
• Built-In AI Tools Practice: Learn how AI can make your data workflow faster and smarter.
• Designed for Business and Practical Reporting Needs: You’ll practise using data in ways that support day-to-day decision-making in real business contexts
• Learn from Industry Professionals: Get insights from experienced data analysts.

Perfect for:

• Career changers looking to enter a data-related role or gain practical analytics knowledge to get ahead.
• Recent graduates or school leavers wanting to gain in-demand data skills.
• Business owners and operators who want to upskill with practical reporting and analytics tools.
• Anyone interested to learn data analytics using the most in-demand tools

No previous experience in tech or data is required—just your curiosity and willingness to learn.

The NZQA External Evaluation and Review (EER) is a process conducted by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) to assess the performance of non-university tertiary education organisations (TEOs) in New Zealand. It’s essentially an independent quality assurance checkup for institutions offering post-secondary education.

New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) awarded us as a Category 1 Provider in the 2023 External Evaluation Review (EER).

What Does This Mean for Mission Ready?

• High-Quality Education: Achieving Category 1 status underscores Mission Ready’s commitment to delivering a high-quality education. Candidates can have confidence that they are choosing an institution that meets or exceeds rigorous educational standards.
  
• Reputation and Trust: For partners and stakeholders, Mission Ready’s Category 1 rating solidifies the institution’s reputation as a trusted and reliable education provider.
• Recognition of Excellence: This achievement is not just a feather in Mission Ready’s cap but also a recognition of excellence in providing education and training. It distinguishes Mission Ready as one of the top-tier institutions in New Zealand.
• Access to Funding: Category 1 providers often have enhanced access to government funding and support, which can further improve the resources available to Mission Ready for offering diverse and innovative educational programmes.
• Global Recognition: Mission Ready’s Category 1 rating in the 2023 EER is globally recognised, elevating the Mission Ready’s visibility and firmly establishing it as a leading educational institution in New Zealand.

You can read the full report here.

Applicants must have the legal right to study in New Zealand and must be a Domestic Student to apply.

All applicants must be able to meet the NCEA Level 1 Literacy and Numeracy requirements.

If English is not your first language, you must provide:

• New Zealand University Entrance, or
• Overall Academic IELTS 5.5 with no individual band score lower than 5.0 (achieved in one test completed in the last two years), or
• Acceptable alternative evidence of the required IELTS.

You may need to incur the following costs:

• Travel, accommodation, and food during classes
• Broadband internet access
• A computer or laptop. (Loan devices may be available in special cases)

Note: Fees and details are subject to change based on government policies and other factors.