Program Overview

New Zealand Diploma in Web Development and Design

Overview

Master the technical and creative skills required to plan, develop and maintain websites. The programme covers a broad range of topics and skills related to web development and design. These include determining client requirements; using frameworks and libraries; user experience design; programming concepts, applications and implementation; configuration; publishing and testing of web solutions. In addition, it covers skills in IT technical support for managing hardware and software resources. You'll also enhance your knowledge of professional, ethical and legal principles and practices, and develop your communication and interpersonal skills.

What will I study

• Computer Systems Architecture
• Introduction to Programming
• User Experience
• IT Practitioner Fundamentals
• Client-Side Web Development
• Website Specifications and Design
• Website Project
• Website Testing and Documentation

Pathway

This diploma provides a direct pathway into the Bachelor of Information and Communications Technology. Several of the diploma's courses can be cross-credited, enabling you to reduce the length of this degree by six months.

Details

• Type: Diploma
• Code: NZ2598
• Next Starts: February 2026
• May be available for Study Visa?: Yes
• International application close date: 20 January for February start; 23 June for July start
• Credits: 120
• Level: 5
• Additional Equipment/Fees: Advised on enrolment
• May be eligible for Studylink?: Yes
• Available Part time: Yes
• May be eligible for Fees Free?: Yes
• Reference: NZ2598-STRU

Fees for 2025

• Domestic Fee: $8,085 - $8,995 per year
• International Fee: $26,000 per year
• Indicative Student Services Fee: $370.50 per year
• Valid To: December 31, 2025

Academic Requirements

• NCEA Level 2 which must include: 10 credits in Literacy Level 2 or above and 10 credits in Numeracy Level 2 or above and appropriate credits in Digital Technologies and Design subjects (Level 2 or above)
• OR New Zealand Certificate in Study and Career Preparation (Level 4) Ara Business and ICT Pathway or equivalent

Alternative Requirements

Still want to study but don't meet the Academic Requirements?

If you show that you have equivalent skills for tertiary study gained through study, work and/or life experience, you may be able to gain alternative entry.

English Requirements

What if English is not my first Language?

• Please provide a result from a test or qualification on the acceptable alternatives
• If you are a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent Resident, complete an Admission and Enrolment form and Ara will contact you regarding a free assessment.
• If you are not a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent resident, book an IELTS or other test through the Ara Examination Centre or in your home country.
• IELTS scores used must be taken from a single IELTS Test Report Form and are valid for two years from the date of the test.

Overall IELTS 5.5 Academic

• 5.0 Listening
• 5.0 Reading
• 5.0 Writing
• 5.0 Speaking

Funding assistance

If you face unexpected financial hardship during your studies, we have several funds that you can apply for. These are designed to enable you to continue your current course of study. We also have a wide range of scholarships and awards that can provide financial assistance.

Career opportunities

This qualification will equip you with the skills and knowledge required for entry level roles providing customisation of package software solutions, or in a graphic design organisation.

Study pathways

This diploma provides a direct pathway into the Bachelor of Information and Communications Technology. Several of the diploma's courses can be cross-credited, enabling you to reduce the length of this degree by six months.

Recommended school subjects

• English
• Maths
• Computing / ICT / Digital Technologies

Credit Recognition

If you have prior relevant experience or previous related study credits, you may be eligible for credit recognition towards this qualification.