Programme overview
Is it time to take the next step in your computing career? In this postgraduate diploma, you’ll build on the knowledge and skills of your undergraduate degree by concentrating on a specialisation you’re interested in – cybersecurity and networking, software development or data analytics and intelligence. You’ll gain deeper insights into a specific area of ICT while strengthening your leadership and collaboration capabilities.
This programme includes two compulsory courses: Research Methods sets you up for advanced research if you do more postgraduate study, and Applied Project provides a chance to undertake and manage an IT project that expands your work experience.
What you’ll learn:
- Analyse complex real-world problems using advanced technical and theoretical knowledge, then develop effective digital solutions that deliver the best results. This includes reflecting on your performance and what you and your team can do to improve.
- Evaluate ever-changing and disruptive ICT environments with critical thinking and interdisciplinary strategies.
- Critically analyse and develop your professional practice to promote open communication, inclusivity and ethical conduct.
Highlights
- Earn and learn. This programme is highly-flexible with blended learning (online, self-directed research, weekend on-campus classes), making it a great option for students and ICT professionals who want to work and study.
- Move your career up a level. With a postgraduate qualification, you’ll acquire higher-level knowledge and the necessary skills for your specialisation, strengthening your CV and the likelihood of a higher salary.
- Made to fit your career goals. Most courses are elective – you can focus on one specialisation or a mix of all three and select the classes that suit your life schedule.
- Practical, applied learning. Apply highly specialised knowledge and skills to independently research and implement an applied-technology project.
- Research-led. Design and carry out your applied research and collaborate with other professionals.
- State-of-the-art facilities. You can apply what you’ve learned in our on-campus computer labs, which you can access seven days a week.
- Learn from the best. You’ll be guided and supported by highly-qualified and experienced IT practitioners who are experts in their respective fields.
- Continue with further postgraduate study. This programme cross-credits towards our Master of Applied Technologies (Computing).
Choose a specialisation
Cybersecurity and Networking
Cybersecurity and computer networks are constantly evolving and growing areas of IT, particularly as more organisations move their operations online and rely on virtual computer networks and cloud services. With cyber-attacks and remote-work security risks on the rise, the technology industry needs cybersecurity professionals and network engineers with the skills and strategic thinking to detect vulnerabilities, mitigate risks and develop policies and procedures for maintaining security in various computer network settings and cloud services – and that’s exactly what the courses in this specialisation focus on. You’ll analyse complex attacks, apply security protection mechanisms and assess potential internal and external threats and protective strategies.
Software Development
Software engineering regularly rates as one of the top jobs in the world. Why? In this field, you can apply your skills in a wide variety of industries and projects. Over time, experienced software developers usually acquire one or more areas of specialisation – something employers often look for to fill higher-level positions. The courses in this specialisation focus on software development strategies and advanced technical skills such as machine learning, the Internet of Things, and web development..
Data Analytics and Intelligence
Hailed by many as one of the most in-demand tech talents, data analytics is a burgeoning industry. Businesses rely on data intelligence to optimise performance, maximise profit, improve customer experience and make fast, data-driven decisions. Therefore, they need people with a deep understanding of best practice techniques and data analytics processes. The courses in this specialisation concentrate on applying data analytics tools to identify and solve issues in data-driven projects.
Scholarships and Awards
We want to manaaki student success wherever we can – and scholarships are one of the ways we can do that. We have scholarships that recognise the achievements and challenges of dedicating yourself to learning.
Check out the postgraduate scholarships we have on offer or have a chat with our Scholarship Advisor- Postgraduate Scholarships
Student Support Services
Study success isn’t just about what you learn in the classroom – it’s also about making sure you’re well-supported to bring the best version of yourself to your studies.
Whether it be academic support and career development, health and wellbeing or financial support, the doors to our various Student Support Services are open to you throughout your entire study journey. That way, no matter what life throws your way or what help you need, our support and aroha will always be available.
Admission requirements
What you will need to study this programme.
Domestic students
International students
Academic requirements
You must have completed at least one of the following:
- A recognised bachelor degree in the same or similar discipline, with merit achievement, deemed to be an average grade of B- or higher in all Level 7 courses; or
- A professional qualification in a relevant discipline, recognised as being equivalent to merit achievement in a bachelor degree, or equivalent.
And English entry requirements;
If English is not your first language, you will also need at least one of the following qualifications:
- Evidence of an IELTS (Academic) band score of at least 6.5 with no band score lower than 6
- University Entrance Literacy: 8 credits at Level 2 or above in English or Māori (4 in Reading, 4 in Writing); or
- Evidence of English language proficiency as outlined in the NZQA Rules on the Unitec English Language Requirements for International Students Web-page.
Non-Academic requirements
- When you apply for this programme, you’ll need to provide proof of your identity (ID) and other documents such as academic certificates – please have these handy when you’re ready to apply. Click to view what documents you may need to provide
Don’t meet these Academic requirements?
- If you don’t meet the academic criteria, our Bridging Education Programmes can help you qualify. Simply apply online, and we’ll discuss your next steps.
- If you don’t meet the above criteria, special or discretionary admission may apply; your eligibility will be determined at the interview.
For more information, download the programme regulations (PDF 430 KB)
Courses and timetables
For more details on the courses including timetables, please click on the course names below.
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| Courses | Credits | Aim |
|---|---|---|
| Research Methods in Applied Technologies(COMP8801) | 15.0 credits (0.125 EFTS) | To provide students with research skills in their chosen field of applied technologies. This may include: literature reviews, writing research proposals, formulating research questions or hypotheses, and applying methods that answer research questions. |
| Applied Project(COMP8802) | 30.0 credits (0.250 EFTS) | This course will provide students with the opportunity to analyse applied technologies through the lens of their chosen pathway. Students will devise and conduct a small applied technologies-based investigative project that demonstrates intellectual independence and analytical rigour within a framework of information and principles related to their chosen applied technologies specialisation. |
