The Diploma in Applied Network and Cloud Technology (Level 7) is designed for students who want advanced practical skills in networking, cloud computing and cybersecurity. The programme focuses on designing, building, managing, evaluating and maintaining scalable network and cloud solutions.

Key benefits include:

• Practical training in advanced networking, cloud computing and cybersecurity.
• Hands-on exposure to technologies and tools such as Cisco Packet Tracer, Microsoft Azure, Oracle VirtualBox, Raspberry Pi, Python, Active Directory, DNS, DHCP, VPNs and network monitoring tools.
• Development of skills relevant to network administration, cloud administration and cloud security.
• An industry-based project providing practical experience.
• An internship component for eligible onshore students; the internship is not available to offshore students.
• Preparation for industry-related technology certifications.
• Potential progression to higher-level study, including pathways listed by NZSE to the Master of Computer and Information Sciences at AUT and the Master of Information Sciences at Massey University, subject to the applicable pathway conditions. 

Programme Structure and Subjects / Topics

The programme consists of eight courses totalling 120 credits:

1. DNCT603 – Network Infrastructure and Administration
   Covers networking fundamentals and practical skills for designing, configuring and administering LANs. Indicative technologies include Cisco Packet Tracer, Oracle VirtualBox, switches, firewalls, Active Directory, DNS, DHCP and VPN.
2. DNCT604 – Cloud Infrastructure and Administration
   Covers cloud service providers, cloud deployment models and practical configuration/provisioning of cloud resources, including Microsoft Azure.
3. DNCT701 – Wireless Network Systems
   Develops skills in configuring, managing and troubleshooting wireless LANs, including network design and VLAN implementation.
4. DNCT702 – Internet-of-Things (IoT)
   Introduces IoT applications and architecture, with practical implementation using Raspberry Pi, Python and Azure IoT Hub.
5. DNCT703 – Network and Cloud Security
   Covers security principles, threats and security practices for network and cloud environments. Topics include cryptography, performance monitoring, vulnerability assessment, backup and disaster recovery.
6. DNCT704 – Network and Cloud Design and Assessment
   Focuses on designing and assessing network and cloud infrastructure for performance, scalability and reliability. Network monitoring tools and cloud platforms are used.
7. DNCT705 – Industry-based Project
   A practical project in network, security and/or cloud technologies where students apply their knowledge to a real-world scenario.
8. DNCT706 – Internship
   Provides industry-focused practical experience in networking, security and/or cloud technologies. NZSE states that this internship is not available to offshore students.

Disciplines / Specialisations

The programme does not appear to offer separately named specialisations. Its main academic and technical disciplines are:

• Network infrastructure
• Network administration
• Cloud computing
• Cloud infrastructure
• Wireless networking
• Internet of Things
• Network security
• Cloud security
• Network and cloud design
• Network monitoring
• Systems administration
• Practical IT project work

Programme Highlights

• NZQCF Level 7 qualification.
• 120 credits.
• 38-week programme including holidays.
• Auckland CBD campus option.
• Online option for offshore students.
• Blended delivery available.
• Practical networking, cloud and cybersecurity training.
• Microsoft Azure exposure.
• Cisco networking tools and technologies.
• Raspberry Pi and Python exposure for IoT.
• Industry-based project.
• Internship opportunity for eligible onshore students.
• Job-focused portfolio and practical project experience.
• NZSE states that the programme can provide pathways towards higher-level study at partner universities, subject to conditions.

Career Outcomes

NZSE identifies the following potential career roles:

• Network Administrator
• System Administrator
• Cloud Administrator
• Cloud Network Engineer
• Cloud Network Architect
• Service Desk Analyst
• Cloud Security Engineer

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

A particularly important 2026 update concerns post-study work options.

NZSE currently states that, from 16 November 2026, eligible graduates of this programme may apply for a 6-month Short-term Graduate Work Visa.

Immigration New Zealand independently confirms that the new Short-term Graduate Work Visa opens for applications on 16 November 2026. Eligible graduates of NZQCF Level 5–7 qualifications may qualify if the qualification was studied full-time for at least 24 weeks in New Zealand and other requirements are met. The visa provides up to six months of open work rights.

Important: completing this diploma does not automatically guarantee a post-study work visa. Eligibility depends on the immigration rules applicable when the student applies and on the student's individual circumstances.

A further practical requirement is access to a laptop or desktop computer capable of connecting to the internet through a web browser. NZSE specifies a minimum screen size of 10 inches and recommends contacting a Course Advisor for detailed device specifications.

International Student Visa Requirements

For an international student physically studying in New Zealand, the relevant visa is generally the Fee Paying Student Visa, subject to the student's circumstances.

Key requirements include:

• An offer of place from an approved education provider.
• Evidence of sufficient funds for tuition and living costs, or an acceptable sponsorship arrangement.
• Payment or evidence of ability to pay tuition fees.
• Appropriate medical/travel insurance.
• Evidence of genuine intention to study.
• Evidence of onward travel or sufficient funds to purchase an onward ticket where required.
• Meeting Immigration New Zealand's health and character requirements.
• Compliance with the conditions stated on the student's eVisa.