Project Management
Transform your Project Management career with this NZQA accredited qualification.
The New Zealand Diploma in Project Management (Level 5) is designed for technically skilled professionals wanting to transition into formal project leadership roles, bridging the gap between hands-on experience and formal project management education.
How will I learn?
With this work-integrated programme your learning experience will include:
- A structured learning environment combining theory with practical application over 1 year (full-time or part-time equivalent)
- Immediate support from qualified trainers with project management expertise
- Applied assessments based on real business scenarios and workplace projects
- Work-integrated learning that allows you to apply concepts directly to your current role.
Who can enrol?
This programme is designed for:
- Project workers wanting to shift into coordination, project management, or client-facing roles
- Trade professionals including quantity surveyors, site supervisors, forepersons and technical support staff
- Career changers looking to enter project management from construction, engineering, manufacturing, or supply chain backgrounds
- Technically skilled individuals who understand project tools and timelines but want to improve communication, budgeting and stakeholder management skills.
What are the benefits?
This programme provides:
- NZQA-accredited Level 5 qualification recognised within NZ’s education framework, valuable for immigration, funding and government positions
- Comprehensive foundational learning ideal for those new to formal project management, combining theory with practical application
- Career progression pathway – can be used to ladder into degrees or higher-level qualifications
- NZ employer recognition – local businesses value NZQA-aligned qualifications, especially in public and education sectors
- Work-integrated approach with applied assessments that address real workplace challenges like reports, scopes and budgets.
How is this different from PMI or PRINCE2 certifications?
Unlike standalone certifications, this Level 5 qualification provides comprehensive foundational learning that combines project management with broader business skills including operations, accounting, and stakeholder management. It’s designed as an entry-level pathway with work-integrated learning over a full year, making it ideal for those new to formal project management who want structured, practical education rather than advanced certification prerequisites.
What types of jobs can I apply for after completing this qualification?
Graduates typically move into roles such as Project Coordinator, Site Administrator, Operations Assistant, Business Analyst supporting project teams, or Junior Project Manager positions. The qualification is particularly valued in construction, infrastructure, engineering, manufacturing, and government sectors where NZQA-aligned credentials are recognized and respected by New Zealand employers.
Can I study this while working full-time?
Yes, the programme offers flexible study options including part-time delivery designed for working professionals. The work-integrated learning approach allows you to apply concepts directly to your current role or workplace projects, making it practical for those who need to maintain employment while studying.
Will this qualification help me get into higher-level project management study?
Absolutely. This Level 5 qualification creates clear pathways into degree programmes and higher-level qualifications. It’s specifically designed as a stepping stone for career progression, providing the academic foundation and practical experience needed to advance into more senior project management roles or further tertiary study.
