Course details

Graduate Diploma in Viticulture Science (Level 7)
NZQF Level 7

About the course

If you already have a degree, these graduate diplomas will allow you to fast track into a viticulture or wine specialisation.

They are suitable if you are working in the winegrowing industry and wish to increase your skills and knowledge to further your career or if you want to fast track a career shift into the wine industry.

The programmes emphasise the specific scientific and technical aspects of grapegrowing and winemaking and can be studied either on campus or by distance learning. EIT offers the only distance learning graduate diplomas in viticulture and oenology in New Zealand.

To enrol in this programme you need to have a three year degree or equivalent qualification, or be able to demonstrate significant work experience in the wine industry.

Programme Outline

The Graduate Diploma in Viticulture Science is designed for those who want to pursue careers as a viticulturist, vineyard contractor, owner/operator of a vineyard, technical consultant, grower liaison and as a researcher.

This qualification provides you with a technical understanding of viticulture science and current grapegrowing practices plus industry-relevant practical skills. An intensive introduction to winemaking rounds out your knowledge.

Distance learning students do need to attend residential schools held each semester in either May/June or September/October. Some residential schools may be scheduled on weekend days. The residential school timetables are provided in December for the following year.

You are welcome to make an appointment to discuss your study options with our staff either in person or by phone and to view our facilities.

Our Programme Administrator can be contacted at [email protected].

Entry requirements

Entry Requirements


A personal interview may be part of the application process.

Application for enrolment in this programme is due by:

  • February start: 3 February 2025

Applicants must meet one of the following criteria:

  • Have completed a three year undergraduate degree (or equivalent qualification); or
  • Be able to demonstrate significant in-depth work and professional experience (at least five years) in the grapegrowing and winemaking industry (at the discretion of EIT).

On Campus Learning

There is a requirement that you have an electronic device you can bring to classes to support your study.

Distance Learning

Students must be a citizen or resident of New Zealand.

For distance learning students, you must have the following to be able to utilise the online learning environment and have access to industry:

  • Desktop or laptop computer or other appropriate electronic device not older than five years
  • Broadband internet connection
  • Software as required
  • Access to wineries and vineyards to undertake assignment and practical work required for specific courses.

Distance learning students must also be prepared to attend residential schools at the Taradale campus (for lab work, field trips, sensory, practical) in Hawke’s Bay.

English Language Entry Requirements

All applicants are required to have attained an acceptable level of English language fluency. This may be demonstrated in a variety of ways, including:

  • Completion of a New Zealand Certificate in English Language (Level 4 – Academic)
  • IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0, with no band score lower than 5.5, achieved in a single test within the two years preceding enrolment
  • International equivalents to IELTS accepted by NZQA

Entry with Credit

You may already have some knowledge or skills that can be recognised as part of your intended study. This may take a number of different forms including study at a private training establishment, workplace training, other tertiary study, life experiences or voluntary work. If you think you may qualify, you may apply for Cross Credit (CC) or Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).

  • CC is based on the equivalency of courses or qualifications. You would apply for CC if you have passed a very similar course at the same level.
  • RPL is based on the assessment of your current knowledge and skills. You would apply for RPL if you had gained the relevant knowledge and skills through life experiences and informal learning situations.

You will be asked to provide details of evidence that you would like considered for credit toward your intended programme of study, as part of your application.

Applications for CC and RPL for a course should be made prior to enrolment in that course and no later than two weeks after the start of the course. There is an application fee for RPL.

For further information and enquiries about CC and RPL please contact the Programme Administrator, Jo Rolfe on 06 830 1913 or email Jo.

About the provider

The Eastern Institute of Technology (EIT) offers you over 160 qualifications from certificate and diploma, to degree and postgraduate level at campuses in Hawke's Bay, Tairāwhiti (Gisborne) and Auckland. Or learn at one of our Regional Learning Centres situated in Hastings, Maraenui, Ruatoria, Waipukurau and Wairoa. EIT Hawke's Bay is one of New Zealand's most attractive campuses with superb architecture and shaded outdoor areas for study on warm days. EIT Tairāwhiti two campuses are located in the heart of Gisborne, near the Taruheru River, and you can get more central than EIT Auckland location on Queen Street! When you choose to study at EIT you'll get the kind of experiences that will help you gain the knowledge and skills to get ahead, whether you want to break into your chosen career or change direction in life.

Video

External links