Graduate Diploma in ICT (Software Development)

Core Courses

In addition to the Domestic Entry Requirements, the following applies to international student applicants:

Academic Requirements

A Bachelor degree, or higher qualification in an ICT related discipline from an accredited international provider. You will be required to present either an original or certified copy of their academic transcript issued by the awarding institute. 

English Proficiency Entry Requirements
International student applicants whose first language is not English must have an IELTS Academic score of 6 with no band score lower than 5.5 (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). UCOL is a TOEFL iBT testing centre.

Under 20 years of age
For international applicants under 20 years of age who do not hold NCEA, International Academic Qualifications Entry Criteria apply.

UCOL's Graduate Diploma in Information and Communications Technology comprises 120 credits.

The programme is designed to offer maximum benefit to students who come to the programme with already established skills in ICT. These skills may have been acquired in both educational or industry settings.  Where an applicant is unsure about the suitability of the programme, or the assumed skill-level, they are strongly advised to consult with the Head of School before enrolling.

Applicants seeking graduate equivalency will be asked to present suitable evidence of their work experience, any prior educational achievements and the skill levels that they have attained. The Head of School can advise an applicant on the presentation of this evidence, but suggested forms of evidence are a curriculum vitae, a portfolio of work, and employer letters of attestation.

The programme is not intended as a pathway for graduates from the UCOL Bachelor of Information and Communications Technology (Applied) programme. Graduates of this programme are not eligible to receive the award of the graduate diploma.

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.