About the programme
The Graduate Diploma in Commerce is an NZQF Level 7 programme at Lincoln University for degree holders who want to study commerce and its specialisations in more depth. It carries 120 credits and normally takes 1 year of full-time study, with part-time options also available.
The university's view is that commerce is a many-sided and changing field, and that a deeper understanding of it widens career opportunities. The programme lets students explore a range of commerce specialisations and see how they apply to their current work and future career.
There is no fixed curriculum; courses are chosen from the university's schedule. Students need 120 credits, at least 75 of them at 300 level, and 60 of those 300-level credits must come from Lincoln's commerce degrees. The remaining credits come from the schedule of courses, with no more than 15 at 100 level. A course advisor helps make sure the selection forms a coherent programme.
Because most of the programme is at 300 level, students effectively take advanced, final-year commerce subjects without starting a new degree. This makes the diploma a way to gain grounding in an unfamiliar business area or to deepen existing knowledge.
It suits graduates, including those from non-business fields, who need stronger commerce preparation for their current role or for a change of career.
Entry requirements
- A completed bachelor's degree from an accredited New Zealand higher education institution.
- Or an equivalent level of education.
- Additional English language requirements apply if English is not your first language.
What you study
- At least 75 credits at 300 level, 60 of them from Lincoln University's commerce degrees
- No more than 15 credits at 100 level
- Remaining courses from the university's schedule of courses
Post-study work visa
Generally not available for this qualification
Depends on the qualification, the length of study and other Immigration New Zealand requirements.
This description is based on the official programme page, checked on 09/09/2026. Ask an NIU adviser about fees and intake dates — the programme page on the Lincoln University website