Auckland University of Technology

What you'll study

The Diploma in Business provides foundational study across the main areas of business, combining theoretical concepts with practical, work-ready skills. Coursework typically covers accounting and finance basics, principles of marketing, micro- and macro-economics, business law and ethics, and foundations of management and organisational behaviour.

• Financial and management fundamentals – introductory accounting, budgeting and interpreting financial information.
• Marketing and digital business – marketing principles, customer behaviour, and the use of digital tools for promotion and commerce.
• Business operations and project skills – project management basics, operational processes and quality in service environments.
• Law, ethics and governance – legal frameworks affecting business activity and professional ethical practice.
• Quantitative and communication skills – statistics for business decision-making, business writing and workplace communication.
• Work-integrated learning and applied projects – industry-linked tasks, case studies and opportunities for workplace experience or simulated business projects.

The programme is generally delivered in semester blocks with a mix of lectures, tutorials, workshops and assessed projects. Successful completion provides credits that can articulate into AUT's undergraduate business degrees or other related tertiary qualifications.

Entry requirements

Admission is aimed at applicants with secondary school completion or an equivalent qualification demonstrating readiness for tertiary study. AUT accepts a range of equivalent academic qualifications from New Zealand and overseas.

• Domestic applicants: typical entry is based on completion of secondary schooling or an equivalent qualification; mature applicants with relevant work experience may also be considered.
• International applicants: require a recognised secondary qualification equivalent to New Zealand secondary completion and evidence of English language proficiency through a recognised test or pathway qualification.
• Some applicants may be required to complete bridging or foundation units if they lack background in numeracy or academic English.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Diploma in Business are prepared for a range of entry-level roles in both private and public sectors, or for further study into undergraduate business programmes.

• Administrative and office support roles
• Customer service and retail supervision
• Marketing or sales support positions
• Small business assistant or enterprise support roles
• Pathway into Bachelor-level study in business, management, marketing, accounting or related fields

The diploma emphasises practical skills employers value—communication, basic financial literacy, digital competence and teamwork—helping graduates transition quickly into the workplace or continue their studies.

Why study at Auckland University of Technology

AUT is located in New Zealand's largest city, offering strong connections with businesses, public organisations and a diverse urban economy. The university emphasises applied learning, with teaching staff who bring industry experience and a focus on employability.

• Practical, industry-relevant learning – applied projects, case studies and opportunities for workplace experience.
• Clear pathways – credits from the diploma can articulate to undergraduate business degrees at AUT and other institutions.
• Support services – academic learning support, career advice and student services, including assistance for international students and dedicated Māori and Pasifika support programmes.
• City-based opportunities – proximity to Auckland businesses, internships and networking events that enhance graduate employment prospects.

Overall, the Diploma in Business at AUT is designed to give a solid, practical foundation in business principles and the skills needed for entry-level roles or further tertiary study.