Institute of Technology or Polytechnic
Otago PolytechnicNew Zealand Diploma in Business (Level 5) (Accounting) or (Leadership and Management)
This course is available
On-Campus
Level of Study
Diploma
Duration
1 year
Next start date
Expected Feb 2027
Campus
Dunedin Campus
Summary
About the programmeThis industry-relevant diploma focuses on the skills you need to work effectively in a range of operational roles. It is designed to give you the skills and competencies that are attractive to employers and required for future professional accountants.
You'll gain the abilities and knowledge to make you a valued employee who can contribute to an organisation from day one, or continue studying towards higher levels of learning and development. Graduates of this qualification are eligible to enter the second year of our Bachelor of Applied Management or Bachelor of Accounting (if you complete the Accounting focus) and you could also move into other relevant industry or professional qualifications at Level 6 or above.
Open Polytechnic also offers this programme fully online. See the Accounting focus here and the Leadership and Management focus here.
Study part-time We know full-time study isn't always possible. We offer part-time options for this programme as well.
Want your existing skills recognised? If you have work experience and skills in this area, you may be able to complete an independent learning pathway to achieve this qualification in a shorter timeframe.
We currently offer a 6 month full-time / 12 month part-time work-based learning option through our assessment of prior learning centre, Capable NZ. Find out more
Entry criteria
Academic requirementsYou must be 16 years old by the start of this programme OR provide an Early Release Exemption Form.
You also need to meet one of these requirements: NCEA Level 2 including 8 Literacy credits at Level 2 or above, and 14 Numeracy credits at Level 1 OR above, OR An equivalent of the above, OR Successful completion of an approved qualification at Level 3 or above with a relevant pathway.
Discretionary admission is available.
International requirements and equivalenceTo enter Otago Polytechnic's undergraduate certificates, diplomas and degrees, you need to have achieved a secondary school qualification that is equivalent to New Zealand's NCEA levels (National Certificate of Educational Achievement).
This information is available by country on our Equivalent academic entry requirements page.
English Language requirementsIf English is not your first language, you must provide: New Zealand University Entrance OR Overall Academic IELTS 5.5 with no individual band score lower than 5.0 (achieved in one test completed in the last two years), OR Acceptable alternative evidence of the required IELTS (see here for internationally recognised proficiency tests and proficiency outcomes for international students).
If you need to improve your English Language skills, we offer a wide range of English programmes.
Don't meet the entry requirements?
If you're keen to study accounting, our New Zealand Certificate in Business (Accounting Support Services) (Level 4) offers an alternative path.
Disclaimer