ARA is a government-funded institute, ranked at 4704 by Webometric Ranking of World Universities, and provides nationally recognised certificates, diplomas, degrees and graduate qualifications. The broad subject areas include: arts & media, business & computing, engineering, architecture, health, hospitality & services, language, culture & education, science, agriculture & animals, and trades. ARA offers workplace training opportunities, internships, apprenticeships and partnerships with industry and a range of online, blended delivery and part-time programmes to cater to flexible study options. Credit recognition allows students to translate existing skills and knowledge into a formal qualification. ARA courses are available across six campuses in Christchurch, Ashburton, Timaru and Oamaru.