Course details

NZ Diploma in Software Development
NZQF Level 6

About the course

This diploma is a two-year "Full-Stack" information technology programme that will prepare you for entry into the IT industry.

After completing the first year focusing on Web Development and Web Design, in the second year, students will learn about SQL database design, mobile app development for Android and IOS, C#, Javascript and ASP.NET, along with project management.

Students will have more practical time learning and writing code than most 3-year degrees. This means no irrelevant papers or unrelated subjects, as required in most university degrees.

This programme only requires 2-days a week in class with the additional option of one-on-one tutorials available when needed. 

Successful graduates of the full two years will receive a Level 6 New Zealand Diploma in Software Development. Some of our graduates have moved into software development roles across a wide range of industries, such as education and e-learning, shipping and freight, healthcare, business and data management, and artificial intelligence.

Entry requirements

  • For students aged 17+.
  • Learners enrolling in this programme should hold the New Zealand Diploma in Web Development & Design or similar.
  • Applicants will be required to attend an interview, which may include a short written task or computer task.

Provisional Entry:

  • Provisional Entry may be granted to domestic applicants who do not meet the criteria above, but present evidence of ability to succeed and are able to show they are well prepared to study the programme.

International Students:

  • International students must be at least 18 years old.
  • International Students for whom English is a second language must have an IELTS Academic score of 6.0 with no band score lower than 5.5 or a recognised equivalent test.

About the provider

Vision College is a division of ATctivate Training Centre which is a charitable company born out of a desire to invest into the future of New Zealand and the world by growing people. Since 1984, thousands of people have benefitted from the dedication of our staff and their support for learners of all ages and backgrounds. Our staff enjoy the challenge and satisfaction of this mission, seeing changed lives and people growing toward their full potential.



We offer a variety of programmes across multiple campuses. You can study from Level 1 Certificates through to Level 7 Degrees.

Vision College has 8 Schools incorporating the following areas of study:

Business Administration (Level 3)
Counselling (Level 5-7)
Early Childhood Education (Level 3-5)
Information Technology (Level 5-6)
Christian Ministry (Level 5)
Music (Level 5-7)
Ultimate - Foundation Skills (Level 1-2)
Trades - Security, Mechanical Engineering & Agriculture (Level 2-3)

Most of our courses are free for domestic students (conditions apply)

All of our programmes are NZQA approved and, where applicable, eligible for students to apply for loans and allowances.