About the programme
The Certificate in Information Technology is an NZQF Level 5 programme at Whitecliffe that builds core professional skills for the IT industry in 18 weeks of full-time study (60 credits) and lays the groundwork for diploma-level IT study.
It mixes theory with practice across four main areas: technical support, information systems, software development basics and web concepts. Students are also introduced to business analysis, user experience and interface design.
Graduates are expected to use information systems fundamentals — business concepts, development life cycles, data modelling and administration; manage hardware, software and network resources securely while supporting users; plan, build, test and document simple applications grounded in the maths and logic of computational thinking; and produce accessible interactive digital media. The programme also covers professional ethics and legal obligations, analytical problem-solving, teamwork, documentation and customer service.
It is aimed at people entering IT or upskilling for their next role. Students need their own device — a Windows machine or one that meets Whitecliffe's specifications; Chromebooks are not supported. Pathways lead to Level 5–6 diplomas in IT technical support, web development and design, and software development, and to the Level 7 Bachelor of Applied Information Technology. It runs at the Auckland City (Symonds Street), Manukau, Christchurch and Wellington campuses.
Entry requirements
- Domestic applicants: turn 17 in the first year and hold 42 NCEA Level 3 credits, including 14 in Digital Technologies or Computing, 10 in Maths and 10 in English at NCEA Level 2 or above; or the Level 4 Certificate in IT Essentials; or equivalent experience; or 60% in the Skills and Knowledge Assessment.
- International applicants: turn 18 in the first year of study.
- IELTS Academic of 5.5 overall with no band below 5.0, or equivalent, achieved before enrolment.
- A qualification assessed by NZQA as equivalent, or at least 60% in the Skills and Knowledge Assessment, plus a statement of purpose.
- Meet New Zealand visa requirements; bring a device that meets the programme's specifications.
What you study
- Technical support fundamentals
- Information systems
- Software development fundamentals
- Web concepts
- Business analysis, UX and interface design
- Professional, legal and ethical practice in IT
Careers after graduation
- Junior Programmer
- Junior Web Developer
- Junior Helpdesk Support
- Junior IT Support
- Field Technician
- Further study at diploma (Level 5–6) or bachelor's (Level 7) level
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 20/09/2026. Ask an NIU adviser about fees and intake dates — the programme page on the Whitecliffe website