Course details

Summary

Studying a graduate diploma helps you develop knowledge and skills in your chosen subject area which will enable you to undertake a new career or further study.

Graduate diplomas are intended to provide the equivalent of a major in a subject area that is different to your first degree’s major. You may be eligible if you haven’t studied for a degree before if you can demonstrate an interest in the subject area and a satisfactory academic ability.

A graduate diploma is a more in-depth version of a graduate certificate, is studied at undergraduate level, and can be completed in the equivalent of one year (two semesters) of full-time study.

To complete the qualifications, students need to gain 120 points at 100 level (first year papers) or above, including at least 80 points at 300 level (third year papers) or above, in the graduate diploma subjects.

Agribusiness

In a small country like New Zealand, successful agribusiness relies on understanding how to manage complex value chains within competitive global markets. Studying Agribusiness at Waikato University puts you in the heartland of New Zealand's leading agriculture-based export industries, learning from experts.

If you're interested in working alongside farmers and businesses focused on agriculture, then Agribusiness at Waikato will help you build the foundations for a dynamic global career.

Gain an all-round understanding of the agricultural sector, including farm management, soil and nutrient management, rural financial management and banking, and value chain management.

You'll learn about international marketing and sales, technological innovations in agribusiness, the impact of free-trade agreements, and how sustainable farming practices can be used to reduce costs and gain a competitive advantage.

During your studies, you'll also develop broad knowledge and skills in general management, which can be applied to various other sectors.

As an Agribusiness student, you'll enjoy field trips to see the operations of successful companies in action, such as Fonterra, Tatua Co-operative Dairy Company and DairyNZ.

Career opportunities

• Dairy business manager
• Agri-consultant
• Agri-food business adviser
• Agri-technician
• Nutrient specialist
• Agribusiness entrepreneur
• Government policy adviser
• Rural banking adviser

Entry criteria

A qualification considered equivalent to a New Zealand bachelor’s degree with a B average.

English language requirements:

IELTS - 6.5 overall (no less than 6.0 in writing); iBT (internet based TOFEL) - 90 with a score of 22 in writing; Pearson PTE Academic- 65 with English language requirements no less than 58 for each communicative skill; From Waikato Pathways College - Successful completion of Level 8 with a B grade average in the Certificate of Attainment in Academic (CAAE) programme.