The programme combines both theory and practice and focuses on teaching a range of concepts and systems including computer hardware and software, business analysis, operating systems, applications, networks, database and user interface design.
This programme is a great place to start learning about the IT industry. It has a practical, hands-on focus which will provide you with the transferable skills and knowledge to be employed in a range of entry-level support roles in an organisation.
The practical programme is designed to teach fundamental knowledge and transferrable skills that can be applied to entry-level roles and further study.
This programme blends theory and practice to deliver a focus on key concepts and systems such as computer hardware and software, business analysis, operating systems, applications, networks, database management, and user interface design.
No Intake for 2026
18 weeks
Full-time
Auckland City Symonds Street Campus
Manukau Campus
Christchurch Campus
Fees free may apply.
All 2025 fees are subject to change and regulatory
Domestic: $3,756 + $150 Student Services Levy
International: $12,000 + $150 Student Services Levy
Further study options:
Level 5 Certificate in Information Technology
Level 5 Diploma in IT: Technical Support
Level 5 Diploma in Web Development + Design
Level 6 Diploma in Software Development
Level 7 Bachelor of Applied Information Technology
Certificate in Information Technology Essentials
NZQA Level 4 (60 Credits)
NZ Government key information link for students.
Graduates of this programme will be able to:
Diploma in Software Development
MoFit is a mobile application designed to inspire and motivate users to achieve their fitness goals. ...
Diploma in Software Development
Tradie Job Site (TJS) is a responsive job management system targeted towards trade staff. ...
Bachelor of Applied Information Technology
Calculator is an website application helping to do some basic calculations with having features of a real calculator, allowing user to do basic calculations (+,-,÷,x and ...
Dumitru (Dan) Hayworth
Applicants must
Applicants who have gained one of the following qualifications would have an advantage in completing this programme:
International applicants must
BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) Requirements:
Recently we have found ourselves working remotely due to Covid-19, we recommend that you have your own device to support your studies. The following specifications are intended to help you make the best choice of laptop, desktop, or tablet for the job.
Recommended IT Specifications:
Minimum Hardware requirements
Minimum Operating System
Not Supported:
The Certificate in Information Technology Essentials is an 18-week NZQA Level 4 programme that blends theory and practice to teach key IT concepts, systems, and applied technical skills.
Domestic applicants must turn 17 within their first year, while international applicants must turn 18 and meet English language and New Zealand visa entry requirements.
You will study computer hardware and software, business analysis, operating systems, networks, applications, database management, user interface design, and project planning tools.
All fees are listed in the programme information and are subject to annual regulatory adjustments.
A suitable device includes an Intel or AMD processor (64-bit, 2GHz+), 8GB RAM (16GB recommended), 250GB SSD, Wi-Fi 802.11n dual-band, and current antivirus software. Chromebooks and tablets are not supported.
It is available at the Auckland City Symonds Street campus, Manukau campus, and Christchurch campus.
Graduates gain foundational skills for junior IT support, helpdesk, programming, and development roles in a variety of organisations.
Progression includes the Level 5 Certificate in IT and the Level 7 Bachelor of Applied IT.
Faculty includes experienced professionals such as Dr Muhammad Azam (Programme Head), Dr Shahbaz Pervez Chattha (Programme Chair), and several expert lecturers and trainers.
There are currently no planned intake dates for the start of 2026.
The vast majority of our team have extensive experience within their respective industries. This is key in helping us ensure our graduates have the real-world skills they need for a successful career and bright future.
Professor Muhammad Azam is a highly respected Computer Engineer and Chartered IT Professional rec ...
Professor Dr. Shahbaz Pervez Chattha is a globally recognized cybersecuri ...
Pinal Shah is a seasoned educator, researcher, author, and creative professional with over 15 yea ...
Amal is a Microsoft as well as Cisco Certified Trainer with wide experience in all aspects of the ...
Jun Han teaches our Certificate in IT Essentials on our Manukau campus. She joined Whitecliffe la ...
Simon holds a PhD in Computer Science (specializing in Cybersecurity) from the University of Cant ...
Rooshan is a Research Associate at the newly established Centre of Research Excellence at Whitecl ...
Dr Badeea Al Sukhni is a cybersecurity, digital forensics and machine learning researcher and lec ...
Joseph earned his PhD in Computer Science from Victoria University of Wellington in 2023. His pre ...
Dr. Sana Alyaseri began her career as a computer programmer and software developer in Iraq, earni ...
