Course details

Summary

Do you want to learn how to develop apps, websites and online games? In this one-year Diploma in Software Development you’ll gain more advanced programming skills and knowledge.

You build on your previous study by learning how to write programs using design patterns, data structures and algorithms to meet specifications.

By studying current and emerging technologies you learn to apply your knowledge to solve technology issues in the workplace, such as designing and building a complex system and a website.

You also learn how to add security protocols, use quality assurance techniques and write software documentation.

With software development specialists in very short supply, the skills you gain during this course will help you step-up your career prospects.

Smart, adaptable problem solvers with sound IT skills are always in high demand. Extend your skills by continuing your studies, or, get some work experience and return to higher-level study at a later date.

Upon successfully completing the requirements you'll receive the award of:

• New Zealand Diploma in Software Development (Level 6)

Additional awards included:

• New Zealand Certificate in Information Technology (Level 5)
• New Zealand Diploma in Web Development and Design (Level 5)

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

Entry-level development or testing roles, in a range of organisational contexts.

TOPICS YOU'LL COVER

Year One topics:

• Information Technology Operations
• Fundamentals of Programming and Problem Solving
• Professional Practice
• Enterprise
• Interface Analysis and Design
• Web Application Implementation
• Application Testing and Maintenance
• Programming OR Special Topic

Year Two topics:

• Systems Analysis and Design
• Web Services and Design Methodologies
• Algorithms and Data Structures
• Data Management
• Project Management
• Special Topic
• Project

The diploma finishes with a 30 credit industry-style project that showcases the skills you've developed over the two years. This is the start of your professional portfolio, which you can show off to potential employers.

FURTHER STUDY OPTIONS

• Bachelor of Applied Information Technology
• Bachelor of Science (BSc), majoring in Applied Computing

Study options

• 2 years full-time, including holidays (if applicable)
• If you have already completed the New Zealand Diploma in Web Development and Design (Level 5), you can finish this course in one year.

Entry criteria

• NCEA Level 2 with passes in English/Te Reo 毛利 or education achievement at least equivalent to NCEA Level 2 and a minimum of 42 credits at level 3; or
• Evidence of ability to complete academic requirements for the programme.

Other Considerations

You are recommended to hold one of the following qualifications, or have equivalent knowledge, skills and experience:

• NCEA Level 2 or 3 with appropriate credits in mathematics and digital technologies subjects
• New Zealand Certificate in Information Technology Essentials (Level 4)
• New Zealand Certificate in Information Technology Technical Support (Level 5)
• New Zealand Diploma in Web Development and Design (Level 5)

English Language requirements:

IELTS Academic score of 6.0 with no band score lower than 5.5; TOEFL Internet-based Test (iBT) score of 60 or higher (with a writing score of 20); TOEFL Paper-based test (pBT) score of 550 (with an essay score of 5.0 TWE); FCE, FCE for schools, CAE with a score of 169, no less than 162 in each skill; NZCEL of Level 4 with the Academic endorsement; PToE (Academic) score of 50.