New Zealand Diploma in Career Development (Level 6)

Locations and dates

Online:

16 February 2026

2026: Block Course to be confirmed

20 July 2026

2026: Block Course to be confirmed
Study options

Full time and part time
Length

1 year full time (34 teaching weeks plus 6 weeks of study break) or up to 4 years part time
Total credits

120
Fees

2025: $688 plus $350 Student Services Fee ($130-260 per course, dependent on course selection)

A Student Service Fee applies (2025; $2.17 per credit).

Fees listed are for each year of the programme, indicative only and may vary with course selection.

View course details for individual fees.

N.B. The 2026 SSF final fee is currently subject to consultation with learners.
National qualification code

NZ3120

This growing field is perfectly suited for people who enjoy helping others and want to keep their employment options open in both the public and private sectors.

Graduates can use this qualification to enter the career industry and work for government agencies, in education, health and private business.

You may already be involved in career development with students or clients and are looking to upskill and formalize your knowledge.

This New Zealand Diploma in Career Development provides foundational entry-level study for you to enter the career development industry.

This (blended-learning) programme consists of seven compulsory courses, which will add value to any existing qualifications and support your transition to become a qualified career practitioner. Successful completion of this Diploma fulfils part of the requirements for Full Membership of the Career Development Association of New Zealand (CDANZ).

Programme structure

Blended learning

5 courses in this programme are completed online, attendance at workshops on the Nelson Campus is required for 2 courses.*
See more about blended learning here.

Self-directed study

Expect to spend 12 to 15 hours per course each week to complete this programme successfully.

* travel and accommodation for workshops are at the learner's own cost.

Entry requirements

Academic requirements

A relevant qualification at level 5 (or equivalent skills and knowledge).

English language requirements

All applicants must have a level of English sufficient to be able to study at this level.

Those applicants whose first language is not English should have an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) overall Academic score of 6.5 (with no less than 6.0 in each band) issued within the last 2 years or equivalent.

Special Entry

Domestic applicants aged 20 years or above who have not met the general admission or entry requirements for a programme but whose skills, education or work experience indicate that they have a reasonable chance of success may be eligible for Special Admission. Special admission will be granted at the discretion of the relevant Curriculum Manager or delegate. Such applicants may be required to successfully complete a foundation, bridging or tertiary introductory programme as a condition of entry into higher level programmes.

Other requirements

Applicants must submit:

Two referee reports
Applicant Declaration Form
Police Vetting Form - please click on the supporting documents link below to read the requirements.

Supporting document requirements (external link)can be found here.

Applicants must have access to internet and computer equipment adequate for online course content and viewing live webcasts.

Recommendations

It is strongly recommended that applicants have experience working in a careers advisory or related social service position.

Applicants are encouraged to arrange their own work placement relevant to this programme of study. Support to arrange this can be given by the NMIT Practicum Coordinator or delegated staff if necessary.

Interview

Applicants may be interviewed.

Career opportunities and pathways

This programme provides graduates with the theoretical and practical skills to become a professional practitioner within the field of career guidance.

Graduates will be equipped with an in-depth knowledge of the practice of career guidance in New Zealand and will develop a professional approach to practice which will enable them to work in the public and private sector.

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