Level up your people leadership capability with SIT’s New Zealand Diploma in Business (Level 6) – Human Resource Management. Gain advanced skills in human resource management, people leadership, and organisational development to confidently support and lead people-focused initiatives. Ideal for those building on existing experience or seeking to progress into HR advisory, leadership, or people management roles.
One year full-time
Up to four years part-time
Intakes will be 17 weeks long
2026 Intake 4: 27 July to 20 November - Applications Close 13 July 2026
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
Zero Fees Scheme
International Fees
$100 per credit
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The NZ Diploma in Business (Level 6) will develop your technical knowledge, people skills, and business environment knowledge.
In addition to gaining core knowledge and skills necessary to contribute to the achievement of organisational strategic objectives, graduates of the Human Resource Management strand will gain specific knowledge and skills to apply to people and culture positions in an organisation:
Core skills
Additional Human Resource Management skills
Programme Structure
Compulsory core papers
Human Resource Management strand specific papers:
Paper Descriptions
NZDB L6 compulsory papers
MGT601 Management Accounting (Level 6) 15 credits
This course develops learners’ ability to interpret financial information, make informed decisions, and manage financial resources effectively within an organisational context as learners explore the role and purpose of management accounting and how it supports planning, control, and performance evaluation. The course focuses on analysing financial statements to understand organisational performance and the financial implications of management decisions. Learners will also apply financial planning and budgeting techniques to support sound decision-making and the effective allocation and management of organisational resources.
MGT603 Operations Management (Level 6) 15 credits
This course introduces learners to the concepts, tools, and methods used by organisations to manage operations, resources, and supply chains effectively. Learners will examine the role and functions of operations management within organisational and external environments, with a focus on meeting the needs of internal and external customers. The course explores resource management, supply chain principles, and the strategic importance of supply chain design and integration. Learners will also apply business process management principles to evaluate how operational processes support efficiency, coordination, and organisational performance.
MGT604 Introduction to Strategic Management (Level 6) 15 credits
This course introduces learners to the key concepts of strategic management, with a focus on how organisations plan for, implement, and manage change to achieve their objectives. Learners will analyse operational plans and organisational goals, and assess performance to identify an organisation’s current strategic position. The course explores change processes and methods, evaluating how planned change supports organisational improvement and strategic outcomes. Learners will also review and report on organisational performance in relation to stated objectives, developing skills to support informed, strategic decision-making in dynamic organisational environments.
MGT609 Change Management (Level 6) 15 credits
This course develops learners’ understanding of change management and how change processes are planned, led, and managed within organisational contexts. Learners will explore key theories and schools of thought that inform contemporary change management practice, alongside methods for implementing and sustaining change. The course examines the relationship between leadership theory and effective organisational management, highlighting the role of leaders in guiding change. Learners will apply organisational change theory to real business environments, building practical capability to support successful change initiatives within organisations.
Human Resource Management strand specific papers
MGT606 Managing Human Resources (Level 6) 15 credits
This course develops learners’ understanding of key human resource management practices that support organisational effectiveness. Learners will explore core HR functions including job design, recruitment and selection, induction, training, performance management, and total rewards. The course focuses on applying best-practice HR principles and relevant legislation to real organisational roles and contexts. Learners will develop skills in job analysis, designing recruitment and induction strategies, and applying employee development and performance management systems. Emphasis is placed on supporting fair, effective remuneration and reward practices that align with organisational goals and workforce needs.
MGT607 Employment Relations (Level 6) 15 credits
This course explores the theoretical and practical dimensions of employment relations, with a focus on legislation, dispute resolution, and contemporary employment systems within New Zealand and global contexts. Learners will critically examine employment relations theories and how they inform current workplace practices. The course emphasises applying employment-related legislation within organisational settings and evaluating the roles of key institutions and processes involved in negotiation and dispute resolution. Learners will develop the ability to propose informed strategies for addressing employment relations issues and supporting fair, effective workplace relationships.
MGT643 Strategic Relationships (Level 6) 15 credits
This course develops learners’ ability to analyse and manage strategic business relationships while responding ethically and responsibly to contemporary organisational challenges. Learners will explore how different types of business relationships support organisational performance and long-term value. A key focus is integrating the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi into organisational strategy and decision-making in Aotearoa New Zealand. The course also emphasises developing inclusive, socially responsible, and ethical strategies to address cultural, social, and environmental challenges, supporting sustainable and values-based organisational practice.
MGT644 Future Trends in HR (Level 6) 15 credits
This course develops learners’ ability to evaluate emerging trends and their strategic implications for human resource functions and organisational performance. Learners will analyse current and future workforce trends to inform strategic decision-making in HR contexts. The course focuses on designing innovative, change-focused HR action plans that integrate organisational change and innovation methodologies. Learners will also develop skills in communicating research-informed, ethical, and strategic recommendations to influence organisational stakeholders, supporting evidence-based and forward-looking HR practice.
Click here for assessment information of NZDB L6 papers
Graduates of the Human Resource Management strand may be employed in a variety of business entities in supervised roles in a specialist HR functional area. The skills and knowledge can also be applied to supervisory or first line management roles.
Education pathway
This qualification will build on from the New Zealand Diploma in Business (Level 5) (any strand), and graduates of the NZ Diploma in Business (Level 6) (Human Resource Management strand) may progress to the third year of SIT's Bachelor of Applied Management (People and Culture major) or a Graduate Certificate or Graduate Diploma (various strands).
It is recommended that all applicants should complete the New Zealand Diploma in Business (Level 5) (any strand) prior to applying for this programme, alongside the following criteria:
School Leavers
Applicants should be a minimum of 18 years of age, have completed a minimum of four years secondary education, and have attained a minimum of 12 NCEA credits at Level 2 in each of four approved subjects.
Mature Applicants
Applicants over the age of 20 years will be considered where they can demonstrate the ability to succeed in a programme (e.g. Record of Learning or Curriculum Vitae). They may be admitted subject to programme regulations approved by the Head of Faculty in consultation with the Programme Manager as appropriate. Personal commitment and a belief in one’s own ability to succeed are important personal traits and will always be taken into consideration during the selection process.
English Language Requirements
All applicants (international and domestic) for whom English or te reo Māori 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 learners from one test taken in the preceding two years, or an equivalent described in the Appendix and on Delivery Site English Language Requirements for International Ākonga webpage.
All applicants must provide evidence that they have the necessary language literacy proficiency required for the Programme as demonstrated by the equivalence of:
Applicants who are unable to provide evidence of the above may be required to demonstrate capability using an approved proficiency test or an equivalent described in NZQA Rules.
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:
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:
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
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.
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:
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:
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:
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?
To satisfactorily complete the New Zealand Diploma in Business (Level 6) with strands in Accounting, Administration and Technology, Human Resource Management, Leadership and Management, Māori Business and Management, Marketing and Sales, and Real Estate, and be awarded this qualification for the Human Resource Management the student must successfully achieve:
(Please note: students failing to attend for 80% of timetabled programme hours may forfeit zero fees entitlement).
Assessments for this programme may include, but are not limited to:
All assessment items are compulsory and must be submitted by the advised time and date.
No re-sits or resubmissions are allowed for assessments in this paper.
Late assignments will not be accepted unless an extension has been requested.
For more information on required and recommended textbooks for this course please refer to the textbook list here.