Detailed review from Julia on studying at WelTec, Graduate diploma in IT, level 7. You may also read Julia’s review on work with Kiwi Education.

Studying in New Zealand. My Impressions of WelTec

Just a few days are left before my thesis defense and final exam. I feel like I’m floating in space — that strange feeling you get after intense studying, followed by the sudden freedom not to think too hard. I decided not to waste time and write my review of studying at WelTec while the impressions are still fresh.

I came to study in a Level 7 one-year program since I already had an IT diploma from Bauman Moscow State Technical University. A little background — after having twins and their brother, my career came to a halt. So, I came to study essentially with a clean slate. My active time in the IT field ended around 2009 and lasted until 2018, when we decided to immigrate.

The Study Structure of WelTec

I started my studies in March, so the academic year was divided into two semesters with a short break in between, and a longer holiday afterward. That means after the thesis defense, I still have a break until March.

In the first few days, we had to choose two elective courses for the current semester (plus two mandatory ones), and one more elective for the next semester.

Here were my subjects:

• Project Management
• IT Operations (ITIL)
• Information Security
• Human Interface Technology

In the second semester, I had only one subject, as it is assumed students will work on a thesis project, which should take around 31 hours per week.

So my final list looked like this:

• Project
• Development and Testing of Software

How It All began?

To make the selection process easier, the school organized a meeting with the lecturers, who briefly explained what each course would involve.

My experience: I regret listening to the intimidating speech of a lady from the programming course who insisted that only those with extensive coding experience should enroll. I eventually took her course in the second semester and realized that with enough effort, it was absolutely doable.

Important note: I appreciated that the WelTec administration gives you a chance to change a subject within the first two weeks if you realize it’s not a good fit. I changed one subject in the second semester because I wanted something more practical.

How the Studying Process Works

After selecting the courses, I received my schedule — which was very inconvenient, especially with three kids in two different locations, and a husband trying to pick up casual work. It was a challenge. You have to be mentally prepared for a schedule that may not be compatible with part-time work. That was my experience in the first semester.

After selecting the courses, I received my schedule — which was very inconvenient, especially with three kids in two different locations, and a husband trying to pick up casual work. It was a challenge. You have to be mentally prepared for a schedule that may not be compatible with part-time work. That was my experience in the first semester.

However, there were lucky ones who studied only in the mornings, four days a week, and had the rest of the time for themselves.

The study plan is designed for students to spend a total of 40 hours a week. This includes lectures and labs, plus a significant amount of self-study.

Some great perks:

• • A wonderful library split into two parts: one where you can chat and snack (bring headphones!), and one quiet area.
  • Midway through the year, they introduced free breakfasts, with tea and unlimited hot water.
  • Because many students find the cafeteria too expensive, the school installed mini-kitchens with microwaves, toasters, and hot water on every floor.
  • The library also offers lots of free support: proofreading services (super helpful for international students!), resume writing help, and even a psychologist.

Key Tips for a Smooth Study Experience

1. Attend all classes (international students are monitored – it’s an immigration requirement).
2. Be active, ask questions.
3. Submit your assignments on time. If you don’t, it piles up like a snowball.
4. Time management is everything.
5. Remember how much you paid for your studies and don’t hesitate to ask questions or raise concerns if something feels off — with a lecturer, groupmates, etc. You’re protected by the Code of Conduct.

More Details on Learning Process

In the first semester, each subject had 2–3 major assignments, plus an exam. Sometimes there were mid-term quizzes. All results and course materials were accessible through WelTec’s internal online system.

In the second semester, I had one subject with three assignments and a final exam. The thesis project was group-based. We managed our own schedules, aiming for about 31 hours per week. For the additional elective subject, I dedicated around 10–15 hours weekly because I had to learn a new programming language.

What Can You Expect?

I believe that, like any educational institution in New Zealand, studying at WelTec should be approached philosophically, with a clear understanding of your end goal. See it as just the first step. Don’t expect to become a top-level IT professional after one year of study (unless you already are one). You can start becoming one, but mostly through self-education (I’ll write more on that in my next article).

If you’re already a professional, consider this year a chance to practice English, expand your IT horizons, and make useful connections.

What you can definitely expect:

• A solid foundation in IT
• Practice applying many skills (and possibly adding a few projects to your portfolio)
• Experience working in a team — a crucial point many employers care about when hiring
• A thesis project done for a real client — something valuable to talk about in interviews. (Yes, we had the option to create our own project idea, but our supervisor insisted on working with a real client request. And I’m glad he did!)

Final Thoughts

I really liked almost all my lecturers. Some are clearly passionate about what they teach and go above and beyond to explain things well. The only annoying part was late grading and some unclear requirements from a couple of “exceptions.”

WelTec also has student leadership opportunities — great for those who want to gain local experience and get involved.

For me, this was an awesome experience of highly intentional learning. And what else could it be when you’re over 30, moved to a new country with three kids, and put everything on the line?  And I’m grateful to our Kiwi Education manager for advising me not to go for a Level 8 program.

Read about education and immigration to New Zealand for IT professionals