About the programme
The Postgraduate Diploma in Commerce is an NZQF level 8 programme at Lincoln University that builds business and commerce skills at management level. It carries 120 credits and takes 1 year of full-time study, normally two semesters.
Commerce touches almost every level of society and is going through a period of major change. The programme challenges students to sharpen the critical thinking, analysis and business skills needed to lead both commercial and non-profit organisations. The university also stresses the wider social side: management decisions affect how well organisations perform and the part they play in building healthier societies.
A particular focus is preparing students for a fast-changing business environment. Students strengthen their management skills so that they become strong candidates for senior positions. The study plan is made up of electives: students complete 120 credits from the course schedules of the relevant master's degrees, spread over two semesters. This makes it possible to shape the diploma around personal career goals and concentrate on the aspects of management that matter most for future work.
The diploma can be taken as a standalone qualification or used as a step towards a master's degree. It is taught on the Lincoln University campus and is aimed at graduates of a relevant bachelor's degree who want to move into management in business or the non-profit sector.
Entry requirements
- A relevant New Zealand level 7 bachelor's degree or recognised equivalent, with at least a B- average in 300-level and final-year courses
- Additional English language requirements for applicants whose first language is not English
What you study
- Electives from the relevant master's degree schedules, 120 credits over two semesters
Careers after graduation
- Senior roles in commercial organisations
- Management roles in non-profit organisations
- Further study at master's level
Post-study work visa
About 1 year
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