Pursuing a postgraduate diploma in New Zealand provides a platform to become more competitive in the relevant industry and increases your chances of getting hired by top companies. The duration of the course is one year and is available for domestic and international students. New Zealand universities such as the University of Auckland, Victoria University of Wellington, and the University of Canterbury offer postgraduate diploma courses in various specialisations.

What is a postgraduate diploma course?

A postgraduate diploma is a postgraduate qualification considered academically over a bachelor’s level but under a full master’s level.

To study for a PG diploma in New Zealand, one must have a bachelor’s degree with at least 60% marks and an IELTS/TOEFL score of 6.5 or 90+. After obtaining a degree in PG diploma, international students can enrol for a master’s or get into careers in business, government agencies, education, healthcare, fintech, or non-profit organisations.

If you want to study in New Zealand or apply for a PG diploma course before the intake, why not arrange a free consultation with SI-New Zealand? Our educational consultants can take you through your study options in New Zealand and help you apply.

Top PG Diploma Courses in New Zealand

The postgraduate diploma courses can vary by university and field of study. Here is the list of top PG diploma programs offered in New Zealand

  1. Postgraduate Diploma in Health Science
  2. Postgraduate Diploma in Business Management
  3. Postgraduate Diploma in Education
  4. Postgraduate Diploma in Computer and Information Sciences
  5. Postgraduate Diploma in Engineering

Eligibility for PG Diploma

The eligibility criteria are the most crucial factor in the admission process for any university. The criteria for studying for the PG diploma in New Zealand for international students may vary depending on the university requirements. Here is the list of requirements needed during the admission process to any university.

  • Statement of purpose – A statement of purpose is a letter that showcases your intent to study abroad.
  • Letters of recommendation – A letter of recommendation is a reference letter that describes your suitability and qualifications for a particular position.
  • Resume/CV – A resume is a detailed document of your academic history, including your skills, experience, and achievements.
  • Valid passport – An official document with your personal information and photograph required when you enter or leave the country.
  • Educational Qualifications– To be eligible for postgraduate diploma courses in New Zealand, one must have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification from a recognised university. The degree must be in a field of study related to the PG diploma being applied for.
  • English language proficiency exam test scores – Test scores of IELTS/TOEFL/PTE
  • Relevant work experience – Some postgraduate diploma courses require work experience for admission. It may vary depending on the institution applying for.
  • Proof of financial stability – is a document required for student visa applications. This includes bank account statements, loan approval letters, scholarship letters, and other documents.

Top Universities to Pursue PG Diploma Courses in New Zealand

Many international students prefer to study in New Zealand for its globally recognised courses, safe and pleasant environment, and diverse work opportunities.

University Post Graduate Diploma Courses Available Acceptance Rate
University of Otago Arts and Music, Commerce, Dentistry, Education, Health Sciences, Law, Pharmacy, and Science 58%
Auckland University of Technology Arts, Business, Education, Engineering, Medical and Health Sciences, and Science 50%
University of Waikato Business, Health Sciences, Tourism and Hospitality Management, Computer Science, and Arts 60-70%
Massey University Information Science, Business, Arts, and Science 65%
Victoria University of Wellington Business, Engineering, Medicine and Health Sciences, Teaching and Education, and Mass Communication and Media 64%
Eastern Institute of Technology Health Science, Business Analytics, and Information Technology 45%
Lincoln University Agriculture, Horticulture, and Viticulture, Business, Environment, Science, and Sports and Recreation 79.8%

PG Diploma Fees

The cost of studying for a postgraduate diploma in New Zealand can vary depending on the university or location. The course duration of a PG diploma is one year, then you can pursue a master’s or look for a job. The course fees in New Zealand can range from $30,000 to $40,290, respectively.

Scholarships

Many New Zealand universities offer scholarships and financial aid to international students to cover their studies and living expenses.

Scholarship Name Expenses covered
New Zealand Foreign Affairs and Trade Scholarships Covers tuition and other expenses
Fullbright New Zealand US Graduate Awards Tuition fees and Air costs
New Zealand Scholarships for undergraduate and postgraduate study Allows students to pursue bachelor’s and master’s courses in New Zealand
Dullabh Education Award Up to $2500
New Zealand Development Scholarships Tuition fees, living allowance, travel costs, and other expenses

Career Opportunities

After pursuing a PG diploma in New Zealand, there is a wide range of job opportunities that you can apply for as per your academic interests. Some popular career options include –

  • Software developers
  • IT Project Manager
  • Economists
  • General managers
  • Registered nurse
  • Accountant
  • Civil engineers

If you do not wish to work after your PG diploma, then you can opt for a master’s degree or a PhD.

Salaries

The average salary after completing a PG Diploma in New Zealand is around $60,000 to $90,000 annually, depending on the field of study, job options, and skills gained.

Job/Profession Average Salary
Civil Engineer $72,355
Marketing Manager $80,305
IT Project Manager $93,071
Accountant $59,472

Study a PG Diploma Course in New Zealand

If you wish to learn more about the postgraduate diploma programs in New Zealand, book a free consultation with SI-New Zealand today.