Graduate Diploma in Information and Communication Technologies
Complement your existing degree and open doors to working in innovative ICT settings.
This programme is designed for individuals who are already working in the technology sector but without a formal IT qualification, and degree graduates from a wide range of disciplines who are seeking to transition into the ICT industry. It’s particularly suited to those who’ve demonstrated strong academic capability but lack the specific technical skills required for ICT roles.
It provides a comprehensive curriculum covering intermediate to advanced topics in programming, networking and data engineering. You'll follow a tailored study pathway that reflects your prior knowledge and aligns with your chosen area of specialisation, enabling you to build relevant, industry-ready skills.
Key highlights
- Flexible study options covering multiple IT domains
- One-year full-time with part-time options available
- Learn intermediate and advanced IT topics through practical courses
- Explore emerging technologies such as AI, cloud computing and cybersecurity
- Complete a work-integrated project bringing together your new skills and knowledge in IT
What you’ll learn
- Key considerations for being an IT practitioner in New Zealand and beyond
- Network Engineering topics such as security, routing and switching, network infrastructure, advanced routing and/or cloud services
- Software engineering topics such as database design, intermediate programming (Java, PhP, C# .NET), website development, advanced programming, and/or cloud services
- Data engineering topics, such as data engineering technologies, data engineering development platforms, data-driven decision making
- Practices for successful IT project execution, and implementation and integration of IT solutions
Please note: some courses within this programme require prior knowledge or experience in IT. You may be required to demonstrate suitable prior knowledge or experience before enrolling.
Fees for 2026
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
- 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, please book a PTE Academic test through the Ara Examination Centre or complete an NZQA-approved English language test 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
- 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
- Software engineer
- Cyber security operations
Study pathways
You can unlock further career pathways and high-level management jobs in tech by adding studies in a business specialisation like project management.
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 |
| 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 2026
Credit Recognition
Translate your knowledge from previous study into credits towards a new qualification.
Apply for credit recognitionDocuments
- Admission & Enrolment Form PDF, 425 KB
- International Application Form PDF, 357 KB
Area of Interest
Need some help picking the right course for you?
Send us an enquiry or book a tour and experience Ara for yourself!