Graduate Diploma in ICT (Computer Networks)

Note: As a subsidiary of Te Pūkenga - New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology, UCOL | Te Pūkenga is committed to providing the best learning outcome for you. As part of this, all programmes are currently being reviewed to make them portable, consistent, and closely aligned with the needs of the industry. When published, this course information is correct, but the courses offered may change over time. If you have any questions call an Enrolment Advisor on 0800 468 265.

From 2023, UCOL | Te Pūkenga and the programme you have enrolled in will become part of Te Pūkenga. So, if you join UCOL | Te Pūkenga in 2023, you will be awarded Te Pūkenga certification. And, if you are a current learner graduating in 2023, you will be awarded a co-branded certificate.

This programme consists of 120 credits. The courses include;

Graduate Professional Practice (15 Credits, 16 weeks duration)
This course prepares you for the transition into the ICT profession and covers communication skills, teamwork and topical issues in the industry.

Special Topic (15 Credits, 16 weeks duration)
Pursue an area of special interest to you under the guidance of a UCOL | Te Pūkenga academic staff member.

Management of Information and Communication Technology (15 Credits, 16 weeks duration)
Analyse and evaluate management practices as they relate to the ICT industry.

Network Services (15 Credits, 16 weeks duration)
Implement key network services as used in modern LANs and explain the network protocols that these services use.

Networks (CISCO ITN) (15 Credits, 16 weeks duration)
Gain practical and technical networking knowledge to assist you to build simple LANs, perform basic configurations for routers and switches, and implement IP addressing schemes.

Networks (CISCO SWRE) (15 Credits, 16 weeks duration)
Gain practical and technical networking knowledge that will allow you to configure and troubleshoot routers, switches and resolve common issues with RIPv1, RIPng, single-area and multi-area OSPF, virtual LANs, and inter-VLAN routing in both IPv4 and IPv6 networks.

Network Design (15 Credits, 16 weeks duration)
Learn how to recommend uses for thin and thick client architectures, and design a thin client architecture. You'll analyse and evaluate network designs, select appropriate technology and design for a given situation, and justify your selection.

Systems Administration (15 Credits, 16 weeks duration)
Design and construct a complex multi-user client/server network. You'll gain essential skills for configuration and integration of complex systems.

English language proficiency
If English is not your first language, you must also demonstrate English language skills equivalent to an IELTS overall band score (academic) of 6.0 with no band score less 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 | Te Pūkenga is a TOEFL testing centre.

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

Academic Entry
A Bachelor degree or higher qualification in an Information and Communication Technology (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. 

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

English language proficiency
International student applicants whose first language is not English must have an IELTS Academic score of 6.0 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 | Te Pūkenga is a TOEFL testing centre.

Under 20 years of age
In addition to this, international applicants under 20 years of age must have NCEA equivalency.

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 | Te Pūkenga Bachelor of Information and Communications Technology (Applied) programme. Graduates of this programme are not eligible to receive the award of the graduate diploma.

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 student 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 | Te Pūkenga Academic Statute and other relevant 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).