Diploma in Languages
Course details
| NZQF Level | 5 |
|---|
About the course
Study one or more languages and enhance your global perspective. Gain intermediate to advanced skills through a flexible, standalone qualification.
Warning for international students
This part-time programme may not be suitable for you as an international student, owing to New Zealand Student Visa requirements for full-time study.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss an alternative programme in your field of interest, contact the International Office.
Take your language skills to the next level
Through the Diploma in Languages, you’ll build strong language skills—reaching at least intermediate competency in two languages or upper intermediate in one. You’ll gain the tools to continue learning independently, long after your studies are complete.
Along the way, you’ll also develop practical awareness of key issues in cross-cultural communication, preparing you to engage confidently in diverse global settings.
You can use the DipLang to add value to your main qualification, such as a Bachelor of Arts or a Bachelor of Global Studies. Or you can use it to turn your language study into a recognised credential in its own right. Either way, the DipLang can turn your passion for languages into a practical advantage.
Communicate across cultures
Studying a language opens the door to authentic cross-cultural communication. It helps you connect with people on a deeper level by understanding their values, humour, and worldview. Learning a language goes beyond translation—it helps you see new perspectives and communicate respectfully in different cultural settings. Whether you’re travelling, working internationally, or building global friendships, learning another language changes the way you see the world.
Boost your career
Adding a language qualification like the Diploma in Languages to your studies can give you a real edge in the job market. It shows employers you’ve achieved a strong level of language proficiency and cultural understanding—skills that are increasingly valued across many fields. In the DipLang, you can focus on any of the languages we teach at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington. Whether it’s a global language or te reo Māori, this credential highlights your versatility and can open doors in education, government, business, and beyond.
How you’ll study
Most students will study for the DipLang part time over four trimesters—but your studies may take longer, depending on which courses you choose. If you are at beginner level when you start the DipLang, you’ll take 100-level courses in your chosen language or languages. If you have prior knowledge of a language, you may be able to begin at a higher level.
You’ll be assessed through a combination of assignments, quizzes, in-class tests, and presentations.
Diploma or Certificate
The 120-point Diploma in Languages gives you the scope to study a language at a higher level and supplement your language study with some cultural study.
If you’re just starting out or prefer a shorter qualification, you might consider the 60-point Certificate in Languages. The CertLang is designed for learners at entry to intermediate levels.
Entry requirements
Domestic entry requirements
University Entrance or alternative admission type.
International entry requirements
Achieve the International Baccalaureate Diploma, or three GCE Advanced Level passes at C grade, or equivalent.
English language requirements
You may also be required to demonstrate your proficiency in English.
About the provider
Victoria University of Wellington, full name Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington, was founded in 1897 and is one of New Zealand’s largest and most prestigious universities. The University is located in the heart of New Zealand’s vibrant capital city and its three city campuses are all within easy walking distance of one another, as well as local attractions, shopping districts, and cafés.
The University’s central location gives students access to a
variety of national organisations in the areas of business, government,
politics, culture and heritage, the arts and filmmaking industry, as well as
the science and technology communities. Wellington is a compact city where
students can easily explore nature trails, beaches, galleries, museums, and
events. It is multicultural, safe, friendly, and has a reputation for great
food and coffee—it regularly ranks as one of the world’s most liveable cities.
Victoria University of Wellington at a glance
- Top 1% of the world's universities for research quality and teaching
- 170+ subjects
- 20 undergraduate programmes and 180 postgraduate programmes
- 40+ research institutes and 4 libraries
- 3,000 of our 17,000 students are international students, from 120+ countries
- 130+ clubs and societies
- 5+ stars from the latest QS Stars Rating of Excellence
- #1 in New Zealand for research intensity (in the latest assessment of the Performance-Based Research Fund)
- Wellington School of Business and Government is one of an elite group of commerce faculties worldwide that hold the Triple Crown of international accreditations of EQUIS, AACSB, and AMBA
- Top 2% of the world’s universities (QS World University Rankings 2026)
- Top 100 in the world in 7 subjects (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025)
Graduate outcomes*
- Of the graduates who responded that they are currently working full time, 91% were employed prior to or within 6 months of degree completion.
- 67% were in full-time employment.
*Based on those who completed the 2023–2024 Graduate Destinations Survey.
Entry requirements
To study at Victoria University of Wellington, international students need:
- a good command of the English language
- a good record of academic achievement.
Entry requirements are provided under each programme. The University considers each student’s academic and English-language background when assessing applications. If a student doesn’t meet entry requirements, our team can help them meet their study goals.
If a student doesn’t meet the entry requirements for:
- English language - Students can apply for our English for Academic Purposes programme
- Undergraduate study - Students can apply for our Foundation Studies programme
- Postgraduate study - Students can talk to us to help build a pathway to their degree
The University offers complete support for students through a range of wellbeing and learning services. These include a specialised international team that is dedicated to supporting students during their studies, which helps international students meet new friends and settle into university and Wellington life.
Some of the support services include:
- dedicated international student orientation and events
- a free arrival meeting service at the airport
- the International Buddy Programme, where you get paired with a ‘buddy’ from the get-go
Students can make the most of the many opportunities to get
involved in different communities, embrace new experiences, and develop skills
for their future careers. The university encourages all students to develop
strong global citizenship skills through their studies and extracurricular
programmes such as the Kitea
Impact Programme, which is also free to join.