Program Overview

Introduction to the Graduate Diploma

The Graduate Diploma is an ideal option for individuals looking to specialise in a new subject area, gain a competitive edge in the job market, or prepare for further postgraduate study. Whether you want to pivot your career, meet professional development goals, or gain a recognised qualification in a different discipline, a graduate diploma can open up new academic and career pathways.

Programme Overview

The Graduate Diploma is designed to provide the equivalent of a major in your chosen subject, even if it’s different from the focus of your first degree. This makes it a popular option for career changers, upskillers, and those preparing for postgraduate qualifications such as a master's degree.

Key Features of the Graduate Diploma

• Equivalent to a subject major: Build advanced knowledge and skills in your chosen field, often required for postgraduate study or career advancement.
• Flexible study options: Complete your qualification in just one year (two trimesters) of full-time study, or extend your study part-time to fit around work or other commitments.
• Undergraduate-level qualification: The graduate diploma is a level 7 qualification on the New Zealand Qualifications Framework (NZQF), and offers a more in-depth option than a graduate certificate.
• Pathway to postgraduate study: Many students use their graduate diploma to meet the entry requirements for a master’s degree in a new subject area.

Programme Requirements

To be awarded a Graduate Diploma from the University of Waikato, you’ll need to complete 120 points at 100 level or above, including at least 75 points at 300 level in your chosen subject. This ensures you develop both foundational knowledge and advanced subject expertise.

Points and Duration

• The total number of points to gain this qualification: 120 points
• The expected duration of full-time study: 1 year

Area of Study

The Graduate Diploma can be studied under various faculties and schools, including:

• The University of Waikato (All areas)
• School of Arts
• School of Computing and Mathematical Sciences
• School of Education
• School of Engineering
• Division of Health
• School of Law, Politics and Philosophy
• Faculty of Māori and Indigenous Studies
• School of Psychological and Social Sciences
• School of Science
• School of Social Sciences
• Waikato Management School

Start Dates

The Graduate Diploma can be started in Trimester A (March) and Trimester B (July).

Degree Information

Plan Your Study

The Graduate Diploma requires completing a total of eight papers (120 points), including at least six papers (90 points) in your chosen subject. This includes up to three papers (45 points) at 100 Level or above, and at least five papers (75 points) at 300 Level.

Subjects

Choose from a range of subjects available for the Graduate Diploma. Browse available subjects for more information.

Fees and Scholarships

• Domestic tuition fees: Approximate annual tuition fees and costs for domestic students enrolled in one year of full-time study.
• Scholarships: Visit the Scholarship finder for more information about possible scholarships.

Scholarships and Prizes

Visit the Scholarship Finder for information about possible scholarships.

Testimonials

Graduate Diploma students share their experiences and the benefits of studying at the University of Waikato:

1. Zac Isaac, Graduate Diploma, Master of Science: "No matter the subject I was studying, my lecturers have always been friendly, helpful, and experts in their fields."
2. Parth Patel, Graduate Diploma: "I started searching for institutions providing supply chain courses, and after thorough research, the University of Waikato stood out to me."
3. Alex Johnson, Master of Business and Management, Graduate Diploma: "What I gained from my degree was the skill to look beyond the obvious and not leave any stones unturned."
4. Rory Mitchell, Doctor of Philosophy: "I would recommend studying computer science at Waikato University. I believe we have high-quality courses on offer, particularly at the postgraduate level, taught by world experts in several fields."
5. Baljinder Devgun, Bachelor of Science (Technology), Graduate Diploma: "I believe we’re all life-long learners in our own ways. I’ve been fortunate enough to gain formal qualifications and am keen to continue learning and sharing my knowledge with others."