Otago Polytechnic is a leading New Zealand tertiary education provider known for its hands-on, industry-focused training. Programmes emphasise real-world projects, internships, and applied research, helping students graduate with practical and employment-ready skills. IT students gain access to modern technology labs, project-based learning, and personalised support through small class sizes.

 

Why Study Graduate Certificate in Information Technology (Level 7)?

This qualification is designed for students who already hold a bachelor’s degree and want to either:

• Transition into IT from another discipline

• Expand their technical knowledge in specialised IT areas

• Improve employment opportunities in the growing global technology sector

Key Advantages

• Develop advanced technical and professional IT skills
• Flexible study pathway that can be customised
• Suitable for career changers and IT graduates
• Industry-focused training aligned with employer needs
• High demand for IT graduates globally
• Opportunity to continue into advanced IT qualifications

 

Core and Optional Course Topics

Level 5 Foundation Courses

Students may study subjects such as:

• Programming Fundamentals

• Object-Oriented Programming

• Web Development

• Networking Fundamentals

• IT Devices and Platforms

• Mathematics for IT

• Professional Practice and Project Planning

 

Level 6 and Level 7 Advanced Topics

Possible advanced courses include:

• Database Design and Management

• Operating Systems Concepts

• Automation and Robotics

• Embedded Systems

• Networking and Wireless Systems

• Application Development

• IT Operations Engineering

• Industry Projects and Studio Courses

 

Disciplines / Specialisations

The Graduate Certificate allows students to tailor their study pathway in areas such as:

• Software Development

• Networking

• Robotics and Automation

• Web Development

• Systems Engineering

• Database Systems

• Operations Engineering

• Business Computing

 

Programme Highlights

• Short postgraduate qualification
• Flexible and customisable learning structure
• Practical industry-focused training
• Small classes with strong academic support
• Suitable pathway for career transition into IT
• Opportunity to continue into Graduate Diploma or postgraduate IT programmes
• High graduate employability

 

Career Outcomes

Graduates may work in roles such as:

• Programmer or Software Developer

• Network Engineer

• Systems Engineer

• Operations Engineer

• Web Developer

• IT Support Specialist

• Automation or Robotics Technician

 

Further Study Pathways

Students may progress to:

• Graduate Diploma in Information Technology
• Postgraduate IT qualifications
• Advanced specialist certifications

 

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

• Programme includes flexible course selection options

• Students must agree on a structured study plan with programme leaders

• Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) available for experienced professionals

• Some courses may require prerequisite subjects

 

Visa Requirements for International Students

International students must:

• Receive official Offer of Place
• Pay tuition fees or demonstrate financial capability
• Meet English language entry requirements
• Maintain full-time enrolment
• Provide proof of living expenses
• Apply for New Zealand Student Visa

 

Workload Expectations

• Equivalent to one semester of full-time study

• Part-time study options allow flexible scheduling