Introduction

Business is one of the most frequently asked programs internationally due to the rapid growth and innovation in this sector. New Zealand is emerging as a key learning destination for business courses on account of its excellent education system, versatile economy, and variety of opportunities. Getting a business degree in New Zealand is not just about getting a world-class education, but also about the many doors you can knock on and the wildest careers waiting for you with high salaries along with multiple migration pathways. 

Why Study Business in New Zealand?

New Zealand’s Reputation for Business School: New Zealand has earned a reputation of being more hands-on and advanced in their teaching methods of their business degrees. Some of the Universities in New Zealand have good business courses, for instance; The University of Auckland, Massey University among others. Business schools in NZ offer emphasis on internships and complete projects that help in preparing the graduates for the workplace. 

Employment Opportunities:  Business graduates are generally offered good starting salaries when going into business in New Zealand. For fresh graduates, the salaries offered range between NZD $50000 and $65000 per annum. After a few years of industry experience, it is possible to earn between NZD $70,000 to $90,000 in this career. An important point to remember is that the salaries may differ based on the area of the country, the field, and the position. 

Post-Graduation Opportunities: International students in New Zealand can apply for a post-study work visa upon completion of their studies, allowing them to stay and work in the country for up to three years. This work experience is a crucial step toward permanent residency, as New Zealand’s immigration policies are favourable towards graduates. 

Affordable Tuition Fees: The cost of studying and living is relatively lower as compared to other famous study abroad destinations such as USA, UK, and Australia. This makes it an attractive option of international students in their quest to find quality education at an affordable price. 

Flexible Entry Requirements: New Zealand universities have flexible entry requirements, accepting work experience, other qualifications, or portfolios. An undergraduate business program typically requires an IELTS score of 6. English proficiency is key. Many programs do not require a background in business, making them accessible to students from various academic streams. 

Programs for International Students

Diploma Programs: 

COURSE  UNIVERSITY  FEES 
Graduate Diploma in Business 

 (Level 7) 

Auckland University of Technology  $34,946  

(1 Year) 

Postgraduate Diploma in Business Administration  

(Level 8) 

University of Canterbury  $40,900  

(1 Year) 

Graduate Diploma in Business Studies (Level 7)  Massey University  $30,450 – $37,800

(1 Year) 

Postgraduate Diploma in Business Studies  

(Level 8) 

Massey University  $34,650 – $44,360

(1 Year) 

 

Undergraduate Programs: 

COURSE  UNIVERSITY  FEES 
Bachelor of Business Auckland University of Technology  $34,946/year  

(3 years) 

Bachelor of Commerce  University of Auckland  $44,078/year  

(3 years) 

Bachelor of Business Studies  Massey University  $33,880/year  

(3 years) 

 

Master Programs: 

COURSE  UNIVERSITY  FEES 
Master of Management  University of Auckland  $58,408/year  

(1.3 years) 

Master of Business Management  Auckland University of Technology  $35,400/year 

 (1½ years) 

Master of Global Business  Victoria University of Wellington  $35,533/year  

(1½ years) 

 

Specialisations available for Business Courses 

 

The business and management studies are vast. International students interested in masters or bachelor’s in management can opt from any specializations below: 

  • Operations management 
  • International Business 
  • Supply chain management 
  • Corporate finance 
  • Entrepreneurship  
  • Brand management 
  • Business economics 
  • Information technology 
  • Accounting, etc. 

Top Universities for Business Programs

University of Auckland 

Provides diverse business programs, highly ranked for research accomplishments and ability to create ties with the corporate world. The university also avails any modern technology and relevant materials to the students. 

Victoria University of Wellington  

Known for its innovation in business education, focusing on practice-oriented skills with applicability in the real world. The university has teamed up with industry leaders to ensure that their curriculum is relevant. 

University of Otago 

It provides comprehensive business courses with a focus on research and development. This institution facilitates students with service and internship and industry placement opportunities as part of career services. 

AUT University 

Known for its practical approach to business education and close relations with the business community, the institution gives their students state-of-the-art facilities and a practical learning experience. 

Entry Requirements

English Requirement: 

  • Undergraduate Programs: IELTS score of 6.0 or equivalent. 
  • Grad Dip/Postgraduate Programs: IELTS score of 6.5 or equivalent. 

Academic Requirement: 

  • Undergraduate Programs: Completion of secondary education with satisfactory grades in relevant subjects. 
  • Postgraduate Programs: A bachelor’s degree in business or a related field with a satisfactory academic record, some programs may not have this prerequisite. Some higher education programs may also require relevant work experience. 

Tuition Fee for Business Courses

  • Diploma Programs: NZD 30,000 – NZD 40,000 per year. 
  • Undergraduate Programs: NZD 30,000 – NZD 50,000 per year. 
  • Postgraduate Programs: NZD 35,000 – NZD 60,000 per year. 

Career Outcomes

Marketing Manager: Design marketing strategies and campaigns to promote products and services. This comprises market research, advertisement, and public relations. Marketing managers are in great demand, and therefore opportunities exist across industries for growth and specialisation. 

Financial Analyst: Provides financial advice and support to businesses and organizations. This includes an analysis of the data on finance, forecasting, and budgeting. Financial analysts, therefore, play a very major role in helping companies make sound financial decisions. 

Human Resources Manager: The manager oversees the recruitment, training, and development of people within an organization. This role includes employee relations, performance management, and compliance with Labor laws. A human resources manager ensures a positive and productive working environment. 

Management Consultant: Advice organizations on the improvement of performance and efficiency; analysis of business practices, identification of problems, and recommendation of solutions.  

Migration Pathway

Upon completion of a business degree from New Zealand, you are eligible to apply for a post-study work visa that can lead to permanent residency.

New Zealand’s business professions can utilise the SMC pathway facilitating easier PR pathway for individuals with these qualifications. These pathways typically involve gaining relevant work experience and meeting criteria set by Immigration New Zealand.