Graduate Diploma in People and Culture

Graduate Diploma in People and Culture

Graduate Diploma in People and Culture

If you are keen to improve productivity and work satisfaction for employees, study the Graduate Diploma in People and Culture (formerly known as the Graduate Diploma in Human Resource Management) to become a changing force in the workplace. This course will teach you about HR policy, management, ethics, and business practice.

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Key Details
SIT Online
Qualification:
Graduate Diploma
Level:
7
Credits:
120
Duration:

One year full-time 

Up to four years part-time 

Intakes are 17 weeks long

Study Modes:
Distance Learning
Dates:

2027 Intake 1: 09 February to 04 June - Applications Close 26 January 2027

2027 Intake 2: 15 March to 09 July - Applications Close 01 March 2027

2027 Intake 3: 21 June to 15 October - Applications Close 07 June 2027

2027 Intake 4: 26 July to 19 November - Applications Close 12 July 2027
Fees:

Zero Fees Scheme

  • Tuition Fee: $0   Check eligibility
  • Direct Material Cost: $8.00 per credit (incl. GST)

International Fees

$100 per credit

Unsure which one is for me? Check Fees Eligibility Check my options

     

The Graduate Diploma in People and Culture will help students/learners to undertake critical evaluation to inform the development and application of human resource policies and procedures at an advanced level in areas such as: recruiting, organisational departmental planning, performance management, and employment compliance. 

The aim of the Graduate Diploma in People and Culture is to provide students who already have a degree, or extensive applicable experience, with advanced theoretical and applied knowledge in People and Culture, which can be used in professional practice or further advanced study in this area.

The programme offers a blend of theoretical and practical learning, with an emphasis on applied knowledge and skill. High importance is placed on the development of soft skills for management (such as communication, presentation, interpersonal and problem-solving skills) in addition to the development of specific business knowledge.

Please note: the course content for this qualification is under review in 2026, some paper may be added or removed for 2027 delivery. We will update the information as soon as possible. 

Returning students/learners will not be disadvantaged by the changes. If papers you have already completed are not in the new programme schedule, they will still be recognised towards the qualification.

Compulsory papers– complete all of the following:

MGT607 Employment Relations (15 Credits)

This paper explores the theoretical and practical dimensions of employment relations, focusing on legislation, dispute resolution, and contemporary employment systems within New Zealand and global contexts.

On successful completion of this paper, students will be able to: 

  • Critically examine employment relations theory and contemporary employment systems.
  • Apply employment-related legislation in an organisational context.
  • Evaluate the processes and institutions involved in dispute resolution and negotiation, and propose strategies to address employment relations issues.

MGT702 Research Methodology (15 credits)

This paper will introduce students to the knowledge and skills required to undertake academic research.  It will cover research skills, research methodologies, gathering and presenting primary and secondary information and data, ethical considerations, and the literature review process.

On successful completion of this paper, students will be able to: 

  • Select a suitable topic on which to base a research project, or similar piece of written work, and identify any possible ethical issues.
  • Source and critically analyse suitable secondary research from a variety of sources both online and in hard copy and select a methodology for gathering primary data.
  • Understand the requirements of a ‘literature review’ and how to construct this using an appropriate referencing style.
  • Write a proposal to complete a research project, or similar, outlining how all the key elements will be met within a specified timeframe.

MGT709 Relationships, Influence and Leadership (15 credits)

This paper presents insights to enable students to recognise their role in influencing decision makers and understand how to use influential tactics.

On successful completion of this paper, students will be able to: 

  • Analyse and evaluate a range of perspectives on leadership relevant to different management levels within organisational and situational contexts
  • Evaluate the influence of a range of factors on leadership
  • Apply leadership contemporary knowledge and skills to the management of change
  • Critically evaluate their current leadership abilities, strengths and weaknesses, and create their own leadership development plan

MGT710 Advanced Human Resource Management (15 credits)

Students will develop an understanding of the ways in which Human Resource Management supports an organisation in achieving its strategic goals.

On successful completion of this paper, students will be able to: 

  • Critically assess demographic trends in Aotearoa/New Zealand’s workforce and the implications for organisations and the Human Resource function.
  • Design a recruitment and selection process linked to an organisation’s human resource strategy and business strategy.
  • Evaluate current approaches to employee professional development and assess how they support an organisation in meeting its strategic objectives.
  • Critique current schools of thought in the area of reward and discuss the link between business strategy and reward.

MGT723 The Dynamics of Employment Relations (15 credits)

In this paper students will critically examine employment regulations and institutions in New Zealand. The paper uses contemporary issues to explore the genesis and shaping of legislation through the socio/political policy making process. The role and impact of policy, regulations and legislation on parties to the employment relationship is also explored.

On successful completion of this paper, students will be able to: 

  • Critically analyse the key elements and dynamics of the employment relationship.
  • Research and evaluate the current legislative framework covering employment relations in Aotearoa/New Zealand.
  • Critically assess the relationship between employment relations outcomes, enterprise performance and the demands of a global economy
  • Critically discuss the legal requirements for the human resource management function related to current employment legislation.

MGT724 Management Skills for a Diverse Workforce (15 credits)

This paper is designed to provide students with an understanding of the increasing importance of diversity in organisations. We study a range of theories and focus on how to apply those theories to real-world situations. This paper emphasises the development of the skills and knowledge required for successful managerial performance in diverse organisations. It focuses on such areas as developing self-awareness, creative problem-solving, supportive communication, the use of power and influence, motivation techniques, and managing conflict.

On successful completion of this paper, students will be able to: 

  • Critically analyse leadership and management theories and assess their application or relevance in culturally diverse workplaces.
  • Critically evaluate common skills required for managerial effectiveness within diverse environments.
  • Research and evaluate the dynamics of human behaviour to assess their impact on the effective management of individuals from diverse backgrounds.
  • Critically evaluate your own values, behaviours and perceptions to understand how they influence your interpersonal behaviour and organisational practice.

MGT736 Managing Business with Artificial Intelligence (15 credits)

This paper introduces students to the strategic use of artificial intelligence in business and explores how AI can improve performance, support innovation, and be used responsibly to create a competitive advantage.

On successful completion of this paper, students will be able to: 

  • Analyse potential strategic applications of artificial intelligence to enhance organisational performance, including efficiency, productivity, decision-making, and customer experience.
  • Critically assess the ethical, legal, and social implications of implementing AI solutions within organisational contexts.
  • Evaluate an organisation’s strategies, resources and capabilities to integrate AI solutions into business operations.

Elective paper- complete one of the following elective papers:

MGT608 Organisational Behaviour (15 credits)

This paper provides an understanding of organisational and motivational theories and the application of these in the development of internal and external environmental analyses for an organisation.

On successful completion of this paper, students will be able to: 

  • Analyse the behaviour of individuals and groups in organisations in terms of key factors that influence organisational behaviour.
  • Assess the potential effects of organisational-level factors on organisational behaviour.
  • Critically evaluate the potential effects of important developments in the external environment on organisational behaviour.
  • Analyse organisational behavioural issues in the context of organisational behaviour theories, models and concepts.

MGT609 Change Management (15 credits)

This paper provides an understanding of change management and the managing of the change process within an organisational context, supported by an understanding of leadership theory and solvency analysis in relation to management in organisations.

On successful completion of this paper, students will be able to: 

  • Debate current schools of thought that contribute to change management in organisations.
  • Examine methods for managing the change process in an organisation.
  • Analyse the relationship of leadership theory in organisational management.
  • Demonstrate and apply knowledge of organisational change theory in a business environment.

MGT611 Health and Safety in Employment (15 credits) 

This paper provides students with foundational knowledge of workplace health and safety and responsibilities in workplace contexts. It focuses on developing the skills to source, analyse and communicate health, safety and wellbeing information, apply relevant legislation, and evaluate strategies that reduce the incident and severity of work-related injury and illness in New Zealand workplaces.

On successful completion of this paper, students will be able to: 

  • Identify and analyse sources of internal and external workplace health, safety, and wellbeing information, including evaluating data source quality and reliability.
  • Present relevant health and safety data to assist in strategic planning and performance measurement.
  • Apply strategies to reduce the incidence and severity of work-related injury and illness within a specific organisation.
  • Develop and apply engagement strategies to communicate health, safety and wellbeing information to stakeholders (internal and external) at all levels of a specific organisation.

Students who have completed a Graduate Diploma in People and Culture will undertake critical evaluation to inform the development and application of human resource policies and procedures at an advanced level in areas such as: recruiting, organisational departmental planning, performance management and employment compliance. They will solve problems, both independently and as part of a team.

General Admission: To be admitted to this programme all applicants must have obtained an undergraduate degree in any discipline.

Special Admission: Mature applicants aged at least 20 years who do not meet the general admission requirements may apply if they have at least three years’ work experience relevant to the area of study and have successfully completed a minimum of 40 credits of study at Level 6.

Special admission applicants must supply their curriculum vitae to demonstrate their relevant work experience and provide evidence of their academic achievements. 

In assessing whether to grant special admission the primary focus will be on the applicant’s ability to demonstrate a likelihood to succeed in the programme. 

The Programme Manager will use this information to assess the applicant’s level of preparedness for study at this level and whether the applicant is likely to successfully complete the qualification.

Meeting the application criteria does not guarantee acceptance into the programme.

English Language Requirements

All applicants (international and domestic) for whom English is not a first language need to provide evidence that they have the necessary English language proficiency required for the programme.

International applicants must provide evidence that they have the necessary English language proficiency required for the Programme as outlined in the table for internationally recognised English proficiency outcomes for international students from one test taken in the preceding two years, or an equivalent described in NZQA Rules and on Delivery Site English Language Requirements for International Ākonga webpage.

Domestic applicants must provide evidence that they have the necessary language literacy proficiency required for the Programme as demonstrated by the equivalence of:  

  • 10 NCEA literacy credits at Level 2 or above, made up of: 
    • 5 credits in reading 
    • 5 credits in writing 

Applicants who are unable to provide evidence of the above may be required to demonstrate capability using either:

  • an approved proficiency test or an equivalent described in NZQA Rules; or
  • successful completion of Level 4 study in English

Studying online at SIT

Once you are enrolled, your course materials, assessments and due dates will be available through Blackboard, SIT's online learning environment. You will have access to your course materials from the start date of your intake.

Students are required to use their SIT email for SIT Online communications. Once you have been accepted into a programme, you will receive an Important Information Booklet with guidance to help you get familiar with Blackboard.

Staying in contact with your Facilitator

During your intake, you can contact your Facilitator by email. Facilitators aim to respond within 2 working days.

Within the first 1-2 weeks of your intake, you need to email your Facilitator to confirm that you have started your studies. If you have not contacted your Facilitator or started your course by the end of the second week, you may be Faculty Withdrawn from the programme.

This may affect your future access to the Zero Fees Scheme, and you will still be responsible for Student Direct Material Costs.

Results and transcripts

After each intake, check your results through MySIT.

Once you successfully complete your programme, you will receive an official academic transcript, which will be posted to you.

If you're new to SIT Online, we also recommend reading the FAQs for more information about studying and enrolling online.

 

Study load

Full-time study 

For StudyLink purposes, the minimum study load considered full-time depends on the length of your intake:

  • 12–15 weeks: minimum 36 credits
  • 16–19 weeks: minimum 48 credits
  • 20 weeks: minimum 60 credits

Part-time study*

If you plan to study part time, consider your work, family and other commitments when choosing your study load.

As a guide, we recommend:

  • Working 37+ hours per week: up to 30 credits per intake
  • Working 20–37 hours per week: up to 45 credits per intake
  • Working fewer than 20 hours per week: up to 60 credits per intake

These are guidelines only. The right study load will depend on your individual circumstances.

*Your eligibility and maximum duration you have to complete your qualification part-time is subject to change, enquire to confirm.

How much study time should I allow?

As a guide, one credit is approximately 10 hours of study.

Use the Study Load Calculator to help work out a manageable study load based on your commitments.

 

Important enrolment information

  • All papers selected for an intake must be completed within that intake unless a transfer is approved. 
  • Online enrolment is completed year by year, and you can apply for multiple intakes in one enrolment.
  • You are responsible for enrolling for further study. Enrolment does not automatically roll over to the next year.

 

Cross credits and previous study

If you have completed relevant previous study or have applicable prior learning, you may be eligible for cross credit, credit transfer or recognition of prior learning.

See the SIT information on cross credits, credit transfers and recognition of prior learning for eligibility and application details.

If you have completed relevant previous study or have applicable prior learning, you may be eligible for cross credit, credit transfer or recognition of prior learning.

Check our current information on cross credits, credit transfers and recognition of prior learning for eligibility and application details.

Before you apply

Please read the Information on this page before starting your application. 
Your application will be assessed based on the information and supporting documents you provide.

Missing information or documents may delay your application.

Application checklist (once you click “Enrol”)

Before submitting your application, check that:

  • You have read the Programme Information on this page.
  • You meet the programme admission requirements.
  • You meet any entry requirements for the individual paper(s) you want to study.
  • You have selected your preferred intake(s), avoiding overlapping intakes.
  • You know how you intend to pay for your study.
  • If your organisation or employer is paying, you have an approved purchase order ready to attach. If they do not pay your fees, these will become your responsibility.
  • If applying for cross credit, you have completed the required cross credit form.
  • You have access to a computer, internet connection and software for creating electronic documents, such as Microsoft Word or OpenOffice.

For Level 3 programmes: You will be required by the Tertiary Education Commission to complete at least one literacy and one numeracy assessment as part of your studies.

New students

You will also need to:

  • Provide an active NSN in the name you are enrolling under. If you do not know your NSN, contact NZQA on 0800 697 296.
  • If you do not have an active NSN, provide verified identification in the name you are enrolling under.
  • If you are a New Zealand Resident or Permanent Resident, provide proof of residency.
  • Provide supporting academic documentation, such as your NZQA Record of Achievement, academic transcripts or certificates. These documents do not need to be verified.
  • If you do not have academic documentation, provide a comprehensive CV outlining your education and work experience.
  • Attach any other supporting documents required for the programme.

Zero Fees Scheme | What is the Zero Fees Scheme?

Under the Zero Fees Scheme, SIT does not charge tuition fees. You will still need to pay the applicable Student Direct Material Cost and a non-refundable administration fee.

The Student Direct Material Cost provides access to Blackboard®, SIT's online learning environment, and student support services throughout your study.

Who qualifies?

The Zero Fees Scheme is available to:

  • New Zealand citizens completing the full qualification.
  • Australian citizens, New Zealand Residents and Permanent Residents who will be living in New Zealand for the duration of their enrolment.

If you are not eligible for the Zero Fees Scheme, call 0800 748 257 to discuss your options.

Submit your application

Complete the online application and attach all required supporting documentation.

Before submitting, check that the information you have provided is complete and accurate. Missing information or documentation may delay the processing of your application.

Any additional documentation can be emailed to sitonline@sit.ac.nz.

What happens next?

  1. Application received
    You will receive an automatic email confirming that SIT has received your application. Processing may take up to three weeks. We will contact you sooner if we require additional documentation.
  2. Offer and invoice
    If your application is accepted, you will receive a conditional offer of acceptance, an invoice and payment instructions.
  3. Enrolment confirmed
    Once payment has been received, or you have selected an approved payment method such as Credit Card, Student Loan or Purchase Order, you will receive an Enrolment Confirmation Letter and Important Information Booklet.
  4. Get ready to study
    Closer to the start of your intake, you will receive a Time To Get Started Letter with the information, tools and guidance you need to begin your studies.

For students to be considered to have satisfactorily completed this programme and be eligible for the awarding of the qualification Graduate Diploma in People and Culture, they must have completed all scheduled course work requirements and assessments, successfully completed assessment requirements for all courses, and achieved a total of 120 credits as specified in the programme schedule. The timeframe for completion of this programme is four years. 

Please note: Students failing to engage in study as per programme requirements may forfeit Zero Fees entitlement.

Assessments for this programme may include, but are not limited to:

  • Tests
  • Assignments
  • Case studies
  • Presentations
  • Reports
  • Discussion activities

All requirements for assessment must be submitted by the advised time and date. Late assignments will not be accepted unless an extension has been requested by the student and granted by the facilitator, in writing, before the due date.

For more information on required and recommended textbooks for this course please refer to the textbook list here. 

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