SIT’s newly developed Bachelor of Information Technology (BIT) will gear graduates for job opportunities across the rapidly expanding scope of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
The recently developed degree programme is NZQA-approved and ready to go, covering the latest technologies: AI, cybersecurity, cloud computing, machine learning and more.
New Zealand’s Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment (MBIE) emphasises the importance of the opportunity that AI presents to New Zealand; their strategy reflects this, stating AI will unlock innovation, productivity, and smarter decision-making, and predicts that it could add $76 billion to New Zealand’s GDP by 2038. MBIE’s drive to get more businesses using AI is to see the nation achieve the productivity gains to be made across industries such as agriculture, healthcare, education, tourism, and more.
SIT Head of Faculty, Hamish Small says the new, contemporary IT programmes have been developed to provide students with theoretical knowledge and practical skills appropriate for employment in the likes of a growing number of artificial intelligence and GenAI-related careers, such as ML (machine learning) engineers, LLM (large language model) developers, software engineers, automation specialists, data analysts and business intelligence, platform engineers and strategists.
“Graduates will be empowered to apply generative-AI and machine-learning models to solve industry challenges responsibly and creatively,” Mr Small said.
Nick Elder, SIT’s GM - Digital, Marketing and Administration, who did significant work on redeveloping the BIT, said the IT industry both locally and nationally were involved in the design of the programme. “They let us know where the needs are in the sector; they have been amazing in support of our changes.”
Jane Allan, Account Manager at Cyclone Computer Company and industry consultant on the NZQA Degree Panel that approved the new paper inclusions, stated SIT was continuing to demonstrate its leadership in tertiary education with the introduction of nine new papers within its Bachelor of Information Technology programme, strengthening an already robust and industry‑aligned qualification.
“Cyclone Computer Company is excited to see these additions, as they reflect the evolving needs of the technology sector and provide students with the cutting‑edge skills that employers are actively seeking.”
She added that this enhancement to the programme underscores SIT’s commitment to staying ahead of industry trends and delivering curriculum content that equips graduates to thrive in modern IT environments. “This degree further cements SIT as a leader in forward‑thinking, industry‑relevant education,” she said.
Jim Dowling, Founder and CEO of Digital Stock, who’s part of SIT’s IT Advisory Committee, agreed. “The BIT has always been an exceptionally practical, hands-on programme. This refresh ensures students are prepared with the latest, most relevant, and in-demand skills helping prepare them for future opportunities in the technology industry.”
Mr Small said there were more updates to come later in the year; SIT will also be rolling out new Graduate Certificate programmes. “These are designed to equip students, who may have majored in a different discipline, with the skills and knowledge that fulfil the expectations of the information technology industry, its practitioners, and clients.”