The New Zealand Diploma in Information Technology Technical Support (Level 5) prepares students with practical technical skills required for today's IT support industry. Developed in collaboration with schools, industry, and community partners, the programme focuses on real-world problem solving, hardware and software support, networking, databases, programming, and customer service.

Key reasons to choose this programme

• Industry-designed curriculum aligned with employer needs.
• Strong practical focus with hands-on laboratory experience.
• Learn hardware, software, networking, databases, programming, and technical support.
• Develop professional communication, teamwork, and customer service skills.
• Same first-year course content as MIT's Bachelor of Information Technology, providing an excellent pathway into degree-level study.
• Nationally recognised NZQA Level 5 qualification.
• Modern IT laboratories and experienced lecturers.
• Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) available for eligible applicants.
• Excellent preparation for entry-level IT support careers or further study.

Programme Structure / Subjects Offered

Students complete six compulsory courses (120 credits):

1. Hardware and Software Fundamentals (20 Credits)

Topics include:

• Computer hardware installation
• Operating systems
• Software installation and configuration
• Hardware troubleshooting
• Secure system administration
• Networking resources
• Ethical and legal IT practices

2. Programming Fundamentals (20 Credits)

Students learn:

• Programming principles
• Systems Development Life Cycle (SDLC)
• Computational thinking
• Data modelling
• Coding
• Testing and debugging
• Software documentation
• Team-based development

3. User Experience and Professional Practice (20 Credits)

Topics include:

• Business analysis
• User Experience (UX)
• User Interface (UI) design
• User-centred digital solutions
• Documentation
• Professional communication
• Team collaboration
• Ethical and cultural considerations 

4. Technical Support (20 Credits)

Students develop skills in:

• IT troubleshooting
• Technical support
• Help desk operations
• Customer service
• Service management frameworks
• Incident resolution
• Front-line IT support

5. Database Fundamentals (20 Credits)

Topics include:

• Database design
• SQL
• Database administration
• Data modelling
• Secure data management
• Organisational data storage and retrieval

6. Networking Fundamentals (20 Credits)

Students learn:

• Network installation
• Network configuration
• Network troubleshooting
• Network security
• Network services
• Collaborative network problem-solving

Disciplines / Areas of Study

Students gain practical knowledge in:

• Information Technology
• Technical Support
• Computer Hardware
• Operating Systems
• Software Support
• Programming
• Database Administration
• SQL
• Computer Networking
• User Experience (UX)
• User Interface (UI)
• Business Analysis
• Customer Service
• Professional Practice
• Teamwork
• Communication
• IT Ethics

Programme Highlights

• Category 1 NZQA education provider.
• Industry-developed curriculum.
• Practical hands-on technical training.
• First-year content aligns with MIT's Bachelor of Information Technology.
• Modern computer laboratories.
• Small class sizes.
• Experienced industry lecturers.
• Strong emphasis on customer service and workplace professionalism.
• Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) available.
• Excellent progression to higher-level IT qualifications.
• Nationally recognised diploma qualification.

Career Outcomes

Graduates are prepared for a variety of entry-level IT technical support roles, including:

• Computer Technician
• IT Support Technician
• Help Desk Support Officer
• Technical Support Officer
• Service Desk Analyst
• Entry-Level Network Administrator
• Applications Support Analyst
• Desktop Support Technician
• Systems Support Assistant

Further Study Pathways

Graduates may continue into higher-level qualifications such as:

• New Zealand Diploma in IT Infrastructure (Level 6) – Networking or Systems Administration strands
• New Zealand Diploma in Information Systems (Level 6) – Business Analysis, User Experience, IT Project Management, Information Systems Innovation, or Data Analysis strands
• New Zealand Diploma in Software Development (Level 6)
• Bachelor of Digital Technologies (Level 7)
• Industry-recognised professional IT certifications

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

• The programme follows the current NZ2596 qualification specification.
• Course content is aligned with the first year of MIT's Bachelor of Information Technology, making it an excellent transfer pathway.
• Programme fees are indicative for the current academic year and may change annually.
• A Compulsory Student Services Fee (CSSF) is charged separately from tuition fees.
• Programme delivery is subject to sufficient enrolments and academic approval.
• International students must study on campus and are not eligible for online-only enrolment.
• Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is available for eligible applicants.

Student Visa Requirements

International students must obtain a valid New Zealand Student Visa before beginning their studies.

Applicants generally need to provide:

• Offer of Place from Manukau Institute of Technology.
• Proof of payment or financial ability to cover tuition fees.
• Evidence of sufficient living funds for the duration of study.
• A valid passport.
• Proof of English language proficiency meeting NZQA requirements.
• Medical examination and chest X-ray (if required).
• Police clearance certificate (where applicable).
• Approved medical and travel insurance.
• Compliance with all current Immigration New Zealand student visa requirements.