Master of Information Technology

This programme provides you with the opportunity to explore your passion for Information Technology and build on your current knowledge to enhance your expertise and career opportunities.

This is an advanced programme requiring 180 credits at level 8 and 9, and includes a significant research component within the two pathways that can be undertaken. 

You will dig deeper in your expertise in a number of cutting-edge topics, including cloud computing, cybersecurity, business intelligence and machine learning and more.

In addition to the research components you will have the opportunity to undertake an industry project or internship in your chosen area of study. 

18 months full-time

Part-time options available

The Master of Information Technology is a level 9 programme that requires successful completion of a minimum of 180 credits from level 8 and 9. There are two pathways for completing a Master of Information Technology (MIT). Both pathways require the completion of a significant research project.

The following structure is proposed for the two available pathways. All courses 15 credits unless stated otherwise.

Pathway One (Thesis)

This pathway provides in-depth knowledge of a topic in Information Technology and is suitable grounding work for higher studies at PhD level in New Zealand or overseas. The research produced can lead to scientific publication. This pathway enables the student to undertake significant independent research.

You will undertake the following compulsory courses at Level 8:

Research in Information Technology

Research Proposal

And the following compulsory course at Level 9:

Thesis (90 credits)

Plus 60 credits from elective courses at Level 8 or 9

Pathway Two (Research Project)

This pathway requires a shorter research report than the Thesis pathway and provides more taught course work.

You will undertake the following compulsory courses at Level 8:

Research in Information Technology

Research Proposal

And the following compulsory course at Level 9:

Applied Research Project (45 credits)

Plus 105 credits from elective courses at Level 8 or 9

For more information on the available courses see the Course Information document in Application Forms and Documents

UCOL has dedicated software and hardware laboratories exclusively for ICT learners, which enable practical learning and problem-solving experience with leading technologies and systems. The Workhub facility offers a professional workspace for interaction with industry. Post-graduate students will have a dedicated spaces for lectures and research within the ICT Hub.

Blended/online learning is also available for this programme.

A bachelor's degree or postgraduate qualification in information technology or related subject with at least a B grade average at Level 7 or 8, and be deemed to have the acquired skills and knowledge through relevant work or professional experience.

English language proficiency

International learner applicants whose first language is not English must have an IELTS Academic score of 6.5 with no band score lower than 6 (or equivalent, including TOEFL). IELTS scores used must be taken from a single IELTS Test Report Form (i.e. combining scores from more than one test is not permissible).

The programme is approved by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority under the provisions of the Education and Training Act 2020, and Universal College of Learning is accredited to teach it.

There are many opportunities in the fast-growing industry of Information Technology with a high demand for industry-ready graduates. Graduates from this programme will be able to work in areas such as:

• Business Analysis

• IT Management

• Project Management

• Cybersecurity

• Database Analyst

• Network Manager

• Software Developer

• Software Tester

Being involved in industry is an important part of our learner's journeys at UCOL. Work placements, internships, industry-based assignments, and case studies are all part of the process of getting our learners industry-ready. Master of IT students are able to undertake an industry-based project or internship during their study. Recent projects and internships on the Bachelor of ICT have been undertaken with:

• Yorb

• New Zealand Defence Force

• Nodero

• WebTech

• Firecrest Consulting

• Levno

• Glassbox

• Advantage

• Palmerston North City Council

Recognition of prior learning

Applications for Recognition of Prior Learning, including Cross Credit, Credit Transfer and Assessment of Prior Learning may be made on the Recognition of Prior Learning Form where a learner believes all learning outcomes for a course have already been met. Applications will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis in accordance with the UCOL Academic Statute and other relavant policies and procedures.

Application checklist

It will make the process easier if you prepare the following before you apply:

• National Student Number (NSN) (If you don't have a NSN, you may request one from NZQA, or you can supply a verified copy of your birth certificate, passport or Whakapapa statement.)

• Evidence of your highest level of academic achievement (and evidence of prior learning, if applicable)

• Evidence that you meet the entry requirements of the programme

• Check if you're eligible for additional support or a scholarship. If you're 19 years or younger, you may be eligible to enrol in one of our free Youth Transition programmes.

Note that you will need to provide any verified documents in person, via post or email (not via the online application form).