UNIVERSITY OF OTAGO · NEW ZEALAND
Diploma in Arts, Commerce, and Science at the University of Otago
Diploma · Taught in en
At a glance
12 mo
Duration
5.5
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Diploma
Level
- 12 monthsDuration
- NZQF Level 5Qualification Level
- Direct entry to Year 2 of Bachelor's degreesProgression
- FebruaryAnnual Intake
- Supported learning environmentSupport
- Mātauranga Māori and Pacific perspectivesCultural Integration
The University of Otago offers three Diplomas: Diploma in Arts (DipArts), Diploma in Commerce (DipCom), and Diploma in Science (DipSc). These are NZQF Level 5 qualifications designed for highly motivated students who narrowly miss direct university entrance requirements. The diplomas provide a focused and supportive learning environment, enabling students to gain university-level credits and prepare for direct entry into the second year of relevant Bachelor's degree programmes at Otago. The programmes incorporate Māori and Pacific perspectives, fostering cultural understanding alongside academic skills.
Curriculum
The diplomas consist of compulsory core papers focusing on academic and cultural skills, alongside papers from the chosen diploma subject area. Students also take first-year bachelor-level courses (100-level papers).
- Diploma Year
- English Skills for University Purposes 1PTWY 101
- English Skills for University Purposes 2PTWY 102
- Academic Skills for University SuccessPTWY 103
- Cultural Awareness in AotearoaNZPTWY 104
- Representing AotearoaNZ in Contemporary LiteraturePTWY 120
- Historical Worlds: Building StatesPTWY 121
- Contemporary Worlds: Our ChallengesPTWY 122
- Principles of EconomicsPTWY 111
- Essential Business FinancePTWY 112
- Mathematics for University PurposesPTWY 130
- Introduction to the Human BodyPTWY 131
- Introduction to Plant LifePTWY 132
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the Diploma in Arts, Commerce, and Science?
- International students typically need to have completed their final year of high school with sufficient academic achievement, or an equivalent qualification. For English proficiency, an IELTS Academic score of 5.5 overall with no band less than 5.0 is required.
- How much does the diploma cost?
- Tuition fees are listed in the 2026 guide and increase annually. Additional compulsory fees include the Student Services Fee and the Pūtea Tautoko | Student Relief Fund Fee. Information on living costs is available on the University of Otago's main website.
- What is the duration of the diploma programme?
- The Diploma in Arts, Commerce, and Science is a 12-month programme.
- How can I apply as an international student?
- International students can apply directly online for the diploma. For the February intake, offshore international students should apply by November 15 to allow for visa processing.
- What are the scholarship opportunities for international diploma students?
- International diploma applicants from offshore may receive automatic consideration for the Global Scholarship (NZD $15,000) or the Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship for International Students (NZD $10,000).
- What happens after I complete the diploma?
- Successful completion of the diploma provides direct entry into the second year of relevant Bachelor's degree programmes at the University of Otago.
Entry requirements
NCEA Level 3 or equivalentSufficient achievement to meet programme requirements, even if not meeting standard university matriculation.
High School CompletionEquivalent of a minimum B- average across at least three relevant subjects.
IELTS Academic5.5 overall, with no band less than 5.0
International students applying based on academic achievement must have completed their final year of high school. For country-specific academic requirements, please refer to the 'International entry requirements – Diploma and Foundation Studies Certificate' PDF or contact pathways.admissions@otago.ac.nz. Students who do not meet the direct entry requirements may consider the Foundation Studies Certificate.
Fees
Tuition (international)Refer to the 'Dates and fees' page for specific tuition fees.
Tuition (home)Refer to the 'Dates and fees' page for specific tuition fees.
LivingInformation on living costs is not detailed on the provided pages but is typically available on the University of Otago's main website.
Tuition fees increase annually. The fees outlined in the 2026 guide are for that year. Additional compulsory fees include the Student Services Fee and the Pūtea Tautoko | Student Relief Fund Fee.
How to apply
1. Check Entry RequirementsEnsure you meet the academic and English language requirements for the diploma you wish to study.
2. Prepare DocumentsGather necessary documents, including academic transcripts and proof of English proficiency.
3. Submit ApplicationApply online via the direct links for each diploma. International students offshore should apply by November 15 for the February intake.
4. Visa ProcessingAllow ample time for student visa processing after submitting your application.
5. Accept OfferIf successful, you will receive an offer of place. Accept the offer and complete any required enrolment steps.
Scholarships
Global ScholarshipNZD $15,000
Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship for International StudentsNZD $10,000
Otago Undergraduate Entrance ScholarshipsVaries
Accreditation
NZQF Level 5 qualification.
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the Diploma in Arts, Commerce, and Science?
+
International students typically need to have completed their final year of high school with sufficient academic achievement, or an equivalent qualification. For English proficiency, an IELTS Academic score of 5.5 overall with no band less than 5.0 is required.
How much does the diploma cost?
+
Tuition fees are listed in the 2026 guide and increase annually. Additional compulsory fees include the Student Services Fee and the Pūtea Tautoko | Student Relief Fund Fee. Information on living costs is available on the University of Otago's main website.
What is the duration of the diploma programme?
+
The Diploma in Arts, Commerce, and Science is a 12-month programme.
How can I apply as an international student?
+
International students can apply directly online for the diploma. For the February intake, offshore international students should apply by November 15 to allow for visa processing.
What are the scholarship opportunities for international diploma students?
+
International diploma applicants from offshore may receive automatic consideration for the Global Scholarship (NZD $15,000) or the Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship for International Students (NZD $10,000).
What happens after I complete the diploma?
+
Successful completion of the diploma provides direct entry into the second year of relevant Bachelor's degree programmes at the University of Otago.