Graduate Diploma in Information and Communication Technologies
Complement your existing degree and open doors to working in innovative ICT settings.
Our full time one year graduate diploma is designed to meet the needs of graduates from a variety of disciplines who do not possess the specific skills necessary to work in ICT industries, but who have already demonstrated the ability to perform at a significant academic level.
This programme offers courses from a wide range of ICT related disciplines including analysis, design, development, implementation and maintenance of business information systems.
You are able to specialise in information systems, web or software development or network administration. Each student will follow a study path that takes into account their prior knowledge and the ICT area they wish to specialize in.
For some students completing the Graduate Diploma over 18 months is recommended.
Fees for 2024
Fees for 2025
A Bachelor's degree in an IT related field (excluding Ara's BICT)
Still want to study but don't meet the Academic Requirements?
- If you show that you have equivalent skills for tertiary study gained through study, work and/or life experience, you may be able to gain alternative entry.
- Note: The number of courses you have to complete for this qualification may be reduced where you have relevant credits from previous study, or evidence of similar learning or experience in the workplace.
What if English is not my first Language?
If English is not your first language, we want to make sure that you will be successful in your chosen programme of study.
- Please provide a result from a test or qualification on the acceptable alternatives English Proficiency Outcomes Chart.
- If you are a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent Resident, complete an Admission and Enrolment form and Ara will contact you regarding a free assessment.
- If you are not a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent resident, book an IELTS or other test through the Ara Examination Centre or in your home country.
- IELTS scores used must be taken from a single IELTS Test Report Form and are valid for two years from the date of the test.
- What if I have achieved NCEA Level 3 University Entrance?
- You do not need to provide additional evidence of English Language skills.
Overall IELTS 6.0 Academic
- 5.5 Listening
- 5.5 Reading
- 5.5 Writing
- 5.5 Speaking
Funding assistance
If you face unexpected financial hardship during your studies, we have several funds that you can apply for. These are designed to enable you to continue your current course of study. We also have a wide range of scholarships and awards that can provide financial assistance.
Find out moreCareer opportunities
With this qualification, jobs in software development, cyber security, database development, interactive media, enterprise application development, website development, data communications and networking, or computing management are possible depending on the study path you followed. Part-time up to 5 years. In-demand IT careers include:
App Developer, Database Administrator, Web Developer, Video Game Designer, IT Helpdesk Technician, Network Administrator, IT Security Specialist, DevOps Engineer, Cloud Engineer, Network Architect, Computer Scientist, Systems Analyst, IT Project Manager, Programmer, Software Engineer and Cyber Security Operations.
Study pathways
The main pathways for the Graduate Diploma in ICT are:
- Software Development
- Information Systems
- Networking & Infrastructure
- Cyber Security
Combining with Business or Applied Management specialism like Project Management can unlock further career pathways and high-level management jobs in tech.
Recommended school subjects
- English
- Mathematics
- Computing/ICT
Graduate Diploma in Information and Communication Technologies
Complement your existing degree and open doors to working in innovative ICT settings.
| Information | |
|---|---|
| Type | Graduate Certificate / Diploma |
| Code | CH3880 |
| Next Starts | February 2025 |
| Application close date | Accepted throughout the year |
| May be available for Study Visa? | Yes |
| International application close date | 20 January for February start; 23 June for July start |
| Credits | 120 |
| Level | 7 |
| Additional Equipment/Fees | Advised before enrolment |
| May be eligible for Studylink? | Yes |
| Available Part time | Yes |
| May be eligible for Fees Free? | Yes |
| Reference | CH3880-STRU |
Fees for 2024
Fees for 2025
Placements or workplace assignments are an integral part of this programme. You don’t need to supply evidence of your Covid vaccination status to apply for or to study this programme but please be aware that some workplaces may require evidence from you that you are fully vaccinated for Covid before allowing you to complete work at their organisation. The number of organisations at which your placement or workplace assignment can be completed may be impacted, depending on your vaccination status.
With an internationally-recognised Ara qualification, the world is your oyster. Our graduates can be found working and making a difference across the globe…
MoreCredit Recognition
If you have prior relevant experience or previous related study credits, you may be eligible for credit recognition towards this qualification.
Find out moreDocuments
- Admission & Enrolment Form PDF, 426 KB
- International Application Form PDF, 363 KB
Area of Interest
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