Diploma in Computing Level 7

This course leads to the award of the qualification as follows based on the chosen specialisation.

• For successful completion of the software development specialisation: Diploma in Computing (Software Development) Level 7
• For successful completion of the computer networks specialisation: Diploma in Computing (Computer Networks) Level 7

The diploma prepares graduates for professional positions in specialised areas of Computing and Information Technology, or for further studies in the fields of Computing and Information Technology.

The course is intended for people with prior qualifications or experience in the area of Information Technology and who wish to acquire knowledge and skills to pursue specialised roles within the IT industry or topursuefurtherstudiesinthefieldsof Computing and IT. Software Development and Computer Networking are the two specialisations offered to the students.

Duration
1 year (3 trimesters)

Course Content
Module A: (Duration: 12 weeks)
In Module A students will identify, critically analyse, review and evaluate ethics and professionalism in the computing industry, especially in the New Zealand context. Students will learn to formulate, align and implement information systems strategically within an organisation. Students will also further develop their skills in IT project management, allowing them to confidently undertake real projects in the IT industry.

Module B:
(Duration: 12 weeks) Module B is focused on developing specialised skills in the chosen area of Computing and IT. Students can specialise either in Software Development or Computer Networking. Prior knowledge is necessary to choose a particular area of specialisation.

Software Development Specialisation:
The specialisation in Software Development further builds the students’ knowledge and skills in analysing, designing and building robust and user friendly enterprise/web- based systems aligned to business needs. Students will also gain the understanding and skills to assure quality throughout the development process.

Computer Networking Specialisation:
Computer networks have become an essential infrastructural backbone of every organisation globally. There is a high demand for specialists and professionals, who can design, maintainandsecure these computer networks. Specialisation in Computer Networks imparts the students with the essential knowledge and skills in both wired and wireless computer network design and setup, administration, maintenance and security.

Module C:
(Duration: 12 weeks) For the final module of the course, students undertake a project in their area of specialisation. The project may be an industry based live project or based on a simulated environment. The project gives the students the opportunity to practically implement the knowledge and skills gained in their area of specialisation.

Work Experience
During the last trimester of the course, students are placed on a 100 hours paid project work experience allowing them to gain valuable work experience along with the practical skills developed through the project. This option is available for students enrolling in Auckland Campus only.

Students have the option of finding paid internship opportunities. NTI will assist students in negotiating any identified internship opportunities within the IT industry in New Zealand.

Career Profiles On successful completion of this qualification, the student is ready for the following career opportunities in the IT industry:

Software Development specialisation:

• Helpdesk operations management
• Software programmer
• Software developer
• Software tester
• System analyst
• Software projects manager