Postgraduate Diploma in Sport Development and Management (PGDipSpDM)
Course details
About the course
The Postgraduate Diploma of Sport Development and Management (PGDipSpDM) is a 120-point coursework programme with the option for students to exit after one academic year or to progress onto the Master of Sport Development and Management (MSpDM).
The PGDipSpDM consists of four 20-point papers (each SPEX paper typically comprising 2 × 10-point modules) and a 40-point independent project. Students will be able to develop a coherent course of study (with input from their advisor) by selecting from papers that reflect their subject of interest. The typical duration of the programme is one academic year, full time.
Other important goals of the course are to develop in students:
- An appreciation of current and emerging issues and perspectives in global and national sporting communities.
- Commitment to the acquisition, critical evaluation and application of knowledge and policies relevant to sport development and management
- Ability to accurately and effectively communicate information, arguments and analyses using written, visual and oral reporting formats.
- Advanced knowledge of ethics and ethical standards relevant to sport development; ability to operate ethically within the workplace and community.
- An understanding of the development of sport in local, national and international contexts in two fundamental ways: development of sport and development through sport. The first is based on sport being valued for its own sake where it is viewed as a public good. The second refers to the strategic use of sport to address and achieve specific social, educational, health, economic, and political objectives.
Information for new applicants
A candidate would normally have completed a Bachelor of Science (BSc) or Bachelor of Arts in a related subject area before undertaking the PGDipSpDM, but the degree is also open to those with other qualifications.
Entry requirements
- Admission to the programme shall be subject to the approval of the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Sciences).
- have been admitted to the degree of Bachelor of Arts majoring in Sport Development and Management;
- have been admitted to the degree of Bachelor of Sciences majoring in Sport Development and Management;
- have been admitted with the status of one who is entitled to proceed to the diploma;
- have a qualification acceptable to the Pro-Vice-Chancellor and produce evidence satisfactory to the Pro-Vice-Chancellor of ability to proceed to the diploma.
About the provider
The University of Otago, New Zealand’s first university, was founded in 1869 and offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes with a strong emphasis on research and academic excellence. Ranked in the top 1% of universities globally and 2nd in New Zealand, it is also 214th worldwide according to QS rankings. Recognised as the top university in New Zealand for student academic performance by the Tertiary Education Commission, 96% of its graduates either enter the workforce or pursue further study shortly after graduation.
Located in Dunedin, a vibrant student city where students make up 20% of the population, the University benefits from a unique atmosphere. Dunedin, on the south-eastern coast of New Zealand’s South Island, is known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, featuring Victorian and Edwardian architecture, picturesque hills, and wildlife reserves.
The University’s campus is ranked the 5th most beautiful in the world by THE Student Voice, enhancing the educational experience. The Otago region offers diverse scenery and is close to popular destinations such as Queenstown. New Zealand is rated the 1st most beautiful country by Rough Guides 2024, is renowned for its natural beauty, Māori heritage, and multicultural society, providing a friendly, inclusive environment for students and residents.