Southern Institute of Technology (SIT) has refreshed its Bachelor of Information Technology (BIT) degree, equipping students with essential skills in artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, cybersecurity and cloud computing. The New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) has approved the updated degree, which has been developed to meet the growing demands of the IT industry.

The programme’s redesign aligns with the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment’s (MBIE) national AI strategy, which states that AI can boost productivity, improve decision-making and unlock innovation. According to MBIE, AI could contribute up to $76 billion to New Zealand’s GDP by 2038. Their aim is to see a wider adoption of AI across key sectors like healthcare, education, agriculture and tourism.

SIT Head of Faculty, Hamish Small, said the new BIT degree aims to prepare students for careers in a wide range of emerging technology roles. “Graduates will be empowered to apply generative-AI and machine-learning models to solve industry challenges responsibly and creatively,” he said. Roles such as machine learning engineers, large language model (LLM) developers, data analysts, software engineers and automation specialists are just some of the career paths supported by the degree.

Nick Elder, SIT’s GM - Digital, Marketing and Administration, who played a key role in redeveloping the degree, explained that both national and local IT industry input helped shape the changes. “They let us know where the needs are in the sector; they have been amazing in support of our changes,” he said.

Jane Allan, Account Manager at Cyclone Computer Company and a consultant on the NZQA Degree Panel, praised SIT for continuing to lead in tertiary IT education. “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 said.

She added the programme updates show SIT’s commitment to staying ahead of tech trends and ensuring graduates are job-ready. “This degree further cements SIT as a leader in forward-thinking, industry-relevant education,” she said.

Jim Dowling, CEO of Digital Stock and a member of SIT’s IT Advisory Committee, agreed that the degree remains highly practical. “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,” he said.

Looking ahead, Mr Small said SIT would also launch new Graduate Certificate programmes later this year. These are aimed at students from other disciplines who want to gain IT knowledge and skills to meet the expectations of the tech industry and its clients.

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