Overview
The University of Otago Diploma in Commerce (DipCom) is a NZQA Level 5 qualification that enables highly motivated, near-miss university entrance students to gain a qualification that allows direct progression into the second year of the Bachelor of Commerce degree.
This is a fast-track qualification suitable for international and domestic students who only just miss New Zealand university entrance requirements and who are well placed to succeed in level 5 studies and transition into university study through a focused and highly supported environment.
The Diploma in Commerce leads into the second year of the Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) degree in which students develop a broad understanding of the fundamentals of business, while also having the opportunity to specialise in a business discipline of their choice.
Admission to the Programme
- Admission to the programme shall be subject to the approval of the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Commerce).
- Every applicant shall either
- be an international student with an overall International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score of 5.5 (with no individual band less than 5.0) or equivalent; have completed the final year of their high school system; and have gained the equivalent of a minimum B- average across at least three relevant subjects or
- be a student whose achievement at NCEA Level 3 or equivalent is deemed sufficient to meet the requirements of the programme even if their achievement does not meet the requirements for matriculation to the University.
Duration of the Programme
Candidates for the diploma shall follow a programme of study for one year of full-time study.
Structure of the Programme
- Every programme of study for the Diploma shall comprise PTWY 101, PTWY 102, PTWY 103, PTWY 104, PTWY 111, PTWY 112, PTWY 130 and a further 54 points from Commerce Schedule C.
- The 54 points from Commerce Schedule C must comprise in the first semester either BSNS 111 or BSNS 115 and in the second semester BSNS 112 and 18 100-level points in the student's intended BCom major subject.
Transfer of Enrolment
- Every student who completes the requirements of the programme of study may choose not to have the Diploma awarded and instead matriculate to the University and transfer the papers completed under the Diploma to any other undergraduate programme, subject to the regulations of that programme.
- Any student who does not complete the requirements of the programme of study but passes a minimum of 72 points including 36 points in Commerce Schedule C papers may matriculate to the University and transfer the papers completed under the Diploma to any other undergraduate qualification, subject to the regulations of that programme.
- Any student who completes PTWY 111 shall be exempt from the requirement to complete BSNS 113 in the BCom degree. Any student who completes PTWY 112 shall be exempt from the requirement to complete BSNS 114 in the BCom degree.
Variations
The Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Commerce) may in exceptional circumstances approve a programme of study which does not comply with these regulations.
University jargon
Starting to research your study options and already feeling lost in the jargon? Here are some handy links for common terms you’re likely to come across.
More information
Contact our Schools' Liaison and International teams
Want to connect with a real person and get some advice? Find your Schools' Liaison officer, chat with our International team in New Zealand or your own country, or submit a question through our online form.
