A dramatic leap in student numbers at polytechnics are expected

Forecasts project increases in domestic fulltime-equivalent students next year of 32 per cent for polytechnics, and 34 per cent for wananga.

The increases are based on predictions the unemployment rate will double in the next year... which will see a spike in people retraining for new careers.

Auckland Unitec interim Chief Executive Merran Davis says it's all about connecting the dots early.

She says it's making people aware of all the different options out there, and the different ways you can get into work, which isn't just by going to university.