Graduate Diploma in ICT (Software Development)

Note: As a subsidiary of Te Pūkenga - New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology, UCOL is committed to providing the best learning outcome for you. As part of this, all programmes are currently being reviewed to make them portable, consistent, and closely aligned with the needs of the industry. When published, this course information is correct, but the courses offered may change over time. If you have any questions call an Enrolment Advisor on 0800 468 265.

From 2023, UCOL and the programme you have enrolled in will become part of Te Pūkenga. So, if you join UCOL in 2023, you will be awarded Te Pūkenga certification. And, if you are a current learner graduating in 2023, you will be awarded a co-branded certificate.

This programme consist of 120 credits. The courses includes;

Core Courses

Graduate Professional Practice (15 Credits, 16 weeks duration)

This course prepares you for the transition into the ICT profession and covers communication skills, team work and topical issues in the industry.

Special Topic (15 Credits, 16 weeks duration)

Pursue an area of special interest to you under the guidance of a UCOL academic staff member.

Advanced Programming

Software Engineering (15 Credits, 16 weeks duration)
Learn how to design and construct quality software ready for distribution.

Mobile Application Development (15 Credits, 16 weeks duration)
Develop a small, enterprise-level application that provides support for a mobile workforce.

Advanced Database Concepts (15 Credits, 16 weeks duration)
Learn how to design, create and administer a data warehouse using a server-based databased management system.

IT Project Management (15 Credits, 16 weeks duration)
Gain an understanding of project management theory and practice it as it relates to the ICT industry.

Optional courses (choose one of the following):

Advanced System Analysis

Software Process (15 Credits, 16 weeks duration)
Learn how to create quality software applications utilising a modern development approach.

Dynamic Web Solutions (15 Credits, 16 weeks duration)
Learn how to create a dynamic web application utilising a variety of open-source technologies.

Analysis and Design (15 Credits, 16 weeks duration)
Learn how to create quality analysis and design documentation for a moderately complex system.

English language proficiency
If English is not your first language, you must also demonstrate English language skills equivalent to an IELTS overall band score (academic) of 6.0 with no band score less than 5.5 (or equivalent including TOEFL). IELTS scores used must be taken from a single IELTS Test Report Form (i.e. combining scores from more than one test is not permissible). UCOL is a TOEFL testing centre.

In addition to the Domestic Entry Requirements, the following applies to international student applicants:

Academic Requirements
A Bachelor degree, or higher qualification in an ICT related discipline from an accredited international provider. You will be required to present either an original or certified copy of their academic transcript issued by the awarding institute. 

English language proficiency
International student applicants whose first language is not English must have an IELTS Academic score of 6.0 with no band score lower than 5.5 (or equivalent including TOEFL). IELTS scores used must be taken from a single IELTS Test Report Form (i.e. combining scores from more than one test is not permissible). UCOL is a TOEFL testing centre.

Under 20 years of age
In addition to this, international applicants under 20 years of age must have NCEA equivalency.

The programme is designed to offer maximum benefit to students who come to the programme with already established skills in ICT. These skills may have been acquired in both educational or industry settings.  Where an applicant is unsure about the suitability of the programme, or the assumed skill-level, they are strongly advised to consult with the Head of School before enrolling. 

Applicants seeking graduate equivalency will be asked to present suitable evidence of their work experience, any prior educational achievements and the skill levels that they have attained. The Head of School can advise an applicant on the presentation of this evidence, but suggested forms of evidence are a curriculum vitae, a portfolio of work, and employer letters of attestation. 

The programme is not intended as a pathway for graduates from the UCOL Bachelor of Information and Communications Technology (Applied) programme. Graduates of this programme are not eligible to receive the award of the graduate diploma.

Recognition of prior learning
Applications for Recognition of Prior Learning, including Cross Credit, Credit Transfer and Assessment of Prior Learning may be made on the Recognition of Prior Learning Form where a student believes all learning outcomes for a course have already been met. Applications will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis in accordance with the UCOL Academic Statute and other relavant policies and procedures.

Application checklist
It will make the process easier if you prepare the following before you apply:

• National Student Number (NSN) (If you don't have a NSN, you may request one from NZQA, or you can supply a verified copy of your birth certificate, passport or Whakapapa statement.)
• Evidence of your highest level of academic achievement (and evidence of prior learning, if applicable)
• Evidence that you meet the entry requirements of the programme
• Check if you're eligible for additional support or a scholarship. If you're 19 years or younger, you may be eligible to enrol in one of our free Youth Transition programmes.

Note that you will need to provide any verified documents in person, via post or email (not via the online application form).