Auckland University of Technology

What you'll study

This programme combines core project management theory with specialist IT delivery subjects and an applied professional project. Typical study areas include project planning and scheduling, risk and quality management, procurement and contract management, stakeholder engagement and governance, IT service and change management, and strategic alignment of IT with business goals.

• Project management frameworks and methodologies — comparative study of PMBOK, PRINCE2 and agile approaches and how to apply them in IT contexts.
• Programme and portfolio governance — oversight of multiple projects, benefits realisation and alignment with organisational strategy.
• Risk, quality and procurement — techniques for identifying and managing project risks, assuring quality and handling vendor relationships.
• Leadership, communication and stakeholder management — skills for leading teams, negotiating with stakeholders and managing change.
• Technical and systems perspectives — fundamentals of software development lifecycles, systems integration and emerging technologies that affect delivery.
• Applied project or research component — a substantial capstone professional project or dissertation where students apply project management methods to a real or simulated IT project.

Teaching is typically a mix of lectures, workshops, case studies, group work and a major applied project to develop practical, job-ready skills.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally required to hold a bachelor’s degree in information technology, computer science, business, engineering or a related discipline, or a recognised postgraduate diploma in a relevant field. Relevant professional experience in IT or project work can strengthen an application and may be considered where academic qualifications differ from the usual requirements.

• Academic qualification: an undergraduate degree in IT or a related subject, or an equivalent qualification.
• Work experience: demonstrated professional experience in IT, project delivery or related roles is advantageous, especially for mature applicants.
• English language: international applicants must meet the university’s English language proficiency requirements (for example an accepted English test or equivalent qualification).
• Additional requirements: applicants may be asked to submit a CV, professional references and a statement of purpose outlining their motivation and relevant experience.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of leadership and specialist roles that bridge technology and business. Common career pathways include:

• IT Project Manager — leading the delivery of software, infrastructure or systems projects.
• Programme or Portfolio Manager — overseeing multiple related projects and ensuring benefits realisation.
• Project Management Office (PMO) Lead or Analyst — setting standards, governance and metrics for project delivery.
• Business Analyst or Product Owner — translating business needs into technical requirements and prioritising work for delivery teams.
• IT consultant or vendor manager — advising organisations on project delivery approaches, procurement and vendor relationships.

The hands-on project component and AUT’s industry links help graduates demonstrate practical experience to employers in private, public and not-for-profit sectors.

Why study at Auckland University of Technology

AUT is a practice-oriented university with strong links to Auckland’s technology and business communities. The programme emphasises applied learning, enabling students to work on real-world problems and build a professional portfolio. Teaching staff typically combine academic expertise with industry experience, and the university offers access to industry guests, internships and networking events that support transition into senior delivery roles.

Located in New Zealand’s largest city, AUT provides opportunities to engage with a diverse technology ecosystem, from startups to multinational firms, while benefiting from a university culture focused on employability and practical outcomes.