Postgraduate Diploma in Information Technology

This programme can form the first step in the Master of Information Technology qualification or be studied on its own to increase your IT knowledge. 

You can choose from a number of electives in key IT areas such as Cybersecurity, data analytics and software development and master advanced project management skills.

12 months full-time

Part-time options available

This programme consists of 120 credits at Level 8 and can be completed in one year full-time. Part-time options are also available.

You will study 30 compulsory credits at Level 8:

• Research in Information Technology

• Advanced Project Management

and 90 elective credits at Level 8.

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 or evidence of relevant skills and knowledge through appropriate work or professional experience.

A bachelor's degree or postgraduate qualification in information technology or related subject or evidence of relevant skills and knowledge through appropriate 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

Completing the Postgraduate Diploma in IT will allow you to continue to the Master of IT (with 6 months further study).

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).