The strategic purpose of this qualification is to provide Aotearoa New Zealand with graduates who have attained a broad understanding of the core concepts and practical skills in Information Technology (IT). This qualification builds on the learner’s existing IT skills from previous qualifications, or relevant experience and provides the common core for all pathways in the professional IT suite of New Zealand qualifications. Primarily, it will equip students for further IT related study and may also prepare them for employment in an entry level IT role. Graduates will be capable of applying the fundamentals of current and emerging concepts and practice in IT. They will also be able to demonstrate awareness of appropriate professional practice, and work both as part of a team and independently under broad supervision, with skills that are internationally relevant. Businesses, organisations and communities will benefit from having IT professionals with a sound base understanding of both the technical and professional aspects of their profession.
The Diploma provides a pathway for gradutes to progress to higher level qualifications in IT, or they may obtain employment in a range of entry level positions in the IT industry.