Otago Polytechnic is a New Zealand public tertiary institution known for delivering career-focused, industry-aligned education with strong student support and employability outcomes. It offers programmes from certificate to postgraduate level and emphasises practical, applied learning. Graduates are recognised for being industry-ready with strong problem-solving and leadership skills.

 

The polytechnic provides flexible learning pathways, modern teaching tools, and strong industry connections that help students gain real-world experience while studying.

 

Why Study This Programme?

This programme is designed for students who want to develop advanced leadership, strategic management, and research skills.

Key Benefits

• Gain advanced management and leadership knowledge
• Develop research, analytics and project management skills
• Flexible learning pathways – coursework, professional project, or thesis
• High industry demand for management graduates
• Strong pathway to further postgraduate or professional advancement

 

Compulsory Courses (All Pathways)

Students must complete:

1. Capabilities for Managers

   • Leadership and organisational management skills

2. Research and Enquiry

   • Applied research and project development

3. Analytics for Managers

   • Data evaluation and strategic decision making

4. Project Management

   • Project planning, implementation, and evaluation

 

Pathway Options

Coursework Pathway

• 4 compulsory courses

• 8 elective courses

• At least 3 electives must be Level 9

 

Professional Project + Coursework

• 4 compulsory courses

• Professional Project (45 credits)

• 5 electives

 

Research Thesis Pathway

• 4 compulsory courses

• Research thesis (120 credits)

• Requires B average in core courses before enrolment

 

Elective Subjects / Specialisation Topics

Students can choose electives aligned with Business Management, such as:

• Developing Effective Organisations

• Entrepreneurship and Innovation

• Managing Change and Adversity

• Management of Information Systems

• Marketing in a Digital Age

• Sustainability Management

 

Disciplines / Specialisation

Business Management

Focus areas include:

• Leadership and organisational strategy

• Innovation and entrepreneurship

• Strategic decision making

• Sustainability and organisational development

• Digital business management

 

Programme Highlights

• Master’s degree completed in 18 months
• Flexible learning pathways (coursework, project or thesis)
• Strong industry relevance and applied learning
• Opportunity for workplace experience
• Credit recognition up to 60 credits possible
• Strong progression pathway to research or leadership careers

 

Career Outcomes

Graduates can pursue management and leadership roles such as:

• Business Manager

• Operations Manager

• Strategic Planning Manager

• Entrepreneur / Business Owner

• Management Consultant

• Project Manager

• Senior Team Leader

 

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

• Programme delivered partly through Future Skills Academy partnership

• Recognition of Prior Learning available (up to 60 credits)

• Programme may be postponed if enrolment numbers are insufficient

• English language pathway programmes are available if IELTS is not met

 

Visa Requirements for International Students

To study in New Zealand, students generally must:

• Receive an official Offer of Place from Otago Polytechnic
• Pay tuition fees or provide scholarship confirmation
• Demonstrate proof of sufficient funds for tuition and living expenses
• Provide English proficiency evidence
• Meet health and character requirements

 

Work and Post-Study Opportunities

International students in New Zealand typically:

• Can work part-time during study (subject to visa conditions)

• May qualify for post-study work visa after completing eligible qualifications

 

Who Should Study This Programme?

This programme is suitable for students who:

• Want senior management or leadership roles
• Have a business or related academic background
• Want flexible research or industry project options
• Plan to advance their careers or pursue further postgraduate research