Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming how the world works — from healthcare and finance to logistics, education, and social innovation.
In New Zealand, rapid digital transformation has created strong demand for professionals who can connect AI technologies with real business impact.
The Postgraduate Diploma in AI Integrated IT Solutions is New Zealand’s first postgraduate qualification focused on AI-Integrated IT, equipping you with the knowledge and practical skills to lead this change. You’ll learn to apply AI tools and automation to real-world challenges, design ethical and sustainable solutions, and manage AI-enabled projects across industries.
Aligned with the New Zealand Digital Strategy and national AI workforce goals, this qualification positions graduates at the forefront of emerging technology — ready to fill critical skills gaps and drive innovation both locally and globally.
This programme is built around strong links with industry, research, and technology partners.
Through the Postgraduate Professional Project, you’ll apply your learning to real-world challenges within organisations across New Zealand’s digital and AI sectors.
Projects may be developed in collaboration with an external company, community organisation, or research initiative, giving you the chance to demonstrate your professional capability while gaining experience that employers value.
Graduates of the Postgraduate Diploma in AI Integrated IT Solutions are equipped with the practical skills and leadership capability to deliver AI-enabled projects and solutions across industries. The programme’s applied and experiential focus prepares you for advanced technical and analytical roles in today’s AI-driven workplaces.
Technical and Development Roles: AI Engineer, Data Scientist, Machine Learning Engineer, Software Developer, DevOps Engineer (AI-Integrated Systems), UX Designer (AI-Driven Applications), Cloud AI Solutions Architect.
Strategic and Leadership Roles: Project Manager (AI-Driven IT Solutions), AI Product Manager, IT Consultant (AI & Digital Solutions), Business Intelligence Analyst.
Policy, Ethics, and Governance Roles: AI Policy & Governance Specialist, Digital Sustainability Specialist.
Specialist and Research Roles: Cybersecurity Specialist (AI-Powered), AI Research Scientist.
Graduates can also continue to the Master of AI Integrated IT Solutions to extend their expertise through applied or research-based study.
To earn the Postgraduate Diploma, learners must complete 120 credits through one of the following pathways:
Coursework Pathway
Professional Project Pathway
Elective Options
Note: All electives are subject to availability, prerequisite requirements, and academic guidance. Elective selection is guided through academic advising to ensure alignment with programme rules, learner background, and desired project or research pathway. Some electives may require specific prior knowledge or experience.
Postgraduate Professional Project
The Postgraduate Professional Project is a 45-credit capstone course where you apply your learning to a real-world AI-integrated IT challenge.
You will work independently or with an industry partner to design, develop, and evaluate an AI-enhanced solution that demonstrates your professional and technical capability.
This project helps you connect academic study with practical experience — developing your research, leadership, and problem-solving skills while creating a meaningful impact in your chosen field.
Courses
|
Course |
Description |
|
AI-Enhanced Research Methods |
Provides students with a comprehensive foundation in research methodologies, covering both qualitative and quantitative approaches, ethical research practices, and contemporary research design principles. |
|
AI for IT Professionals |
Provides an industry-focused introduction to Artificial Intelligence (AI), equipping learners with the foundational knowledge, tools, and applications required to understand and evaluate AI-driven solutions in contemporary professional settings. |
|
Project Management |
Develops learners’ advanced knowledge and practical skills in project management, with a focus on AI-integrated and IT project environments. |
|
Advanced Business Intelligence and Reporting |
Develops advanced skills in business intelligence (BI) and reporting using industry-standard tools and methodologies. |
|
Data and Big Data Management |
Equips learners with the skills and knowledge to manage data and big data systems effectively within AI-integrated IT environments. |
|
Data Mining |
Introduces data mining concepts and techniques within the context of AI-integrated IT solutions. |
|
Cybersecurity |
Introduces the principles and practices of cybersecurity within modern IT systems. |
|
IoT, Edge and Cloud Assisted Computing |
Introduces learners to the fundamentals of Internet of Things (IoT), edge, and their integration with cloud computing, and how they integrate to create intelligent systems. |
|
Human-Centred AI and User Experience Design |
Provides a comprehensive and practice-oriented exploration of user experience (UX) design, progressing from foundational methods to advanced techniques, and culminating in the application of human-centred design in artificial intelligence (AI) contexts. |
|
Game Design and Development |
Provides learners with the opportunity to explore the principles and practices of game design and development, with a focus on integrating AI technologies. |
|
Quality Assurance and Testing |
Introduces the principles and practices of quality assurance (QA) and software testing in the context of AI-integrated IT systems. |
|
Level 8 Special Topic |
Provides learners with the opportunity to explore emerging or specialised topics in AI-integrated IT solutions not covered elsewhere in the programme. |
|
Postgraduate Professional Project |
Enables learners to apply their AI and IT knowledge in a structured capstone project, integrating AI methodologies, governance principles, and responsible deployment within a real-world context. |
The Postgraduate Diploma in AI Integrated IT Solutions is a direct pathway to the Master of AI Integrated IT Solutions, where you can extend your expertise through advanced coursework, applied projects, or research.
After completing the master’s degree, you may progress to doctoral-level study or research-focused careers in the AI and digital innovation space.
Minimum entry requirements are:
Click here for equivalent academic entry requirements by country.
English Language Requirements:
Applicants for whom English is not their first language must provide evidence of English language competence:
You’ll study in a vibrant, future-focused environment designed to support hands-on, experiential learning. Our modern campus in the heart of Auckland—New Zealand’s largest tech and innovation hub—offers advanced computer labs, collaborative project spaces, and industry-standard tools for AI and IT experimentation.
Throughout your studies, you’ll receive structured academic, technical, and professional support.
⦁ Peer Tutors and Learning Support Advisors can help with research, data analysis, and academic writing.
⦁ Our Employability and Industry Engagement Team connects you with networking events, workshops, and real-world projects that integrate AI and IT solutions into professional contexts.
⦁ For personal or wellbeing matters, the Student Success Team provides confidential support and pastoral care.
Beyond the classroom, you’ll join a diverse community that values collaboration, innovation, and balance—offering opportunities to participate in social events, cultural celebrations, and industry meet-ups that enrich both your personal and professional journey.
All students are required to bring their own laptop to participate fully in coursework, labs, and projects. The following minimum specifications are required:
Processor (CPU):
Memory (RAM):
Storage:
Graphics (GPU):
Operating System:
Connectivity:
Other Requirements:
Notes for Students