Wintec computing degree a global job ‘ticket’
Graduates of Wintec’s computing degree can set their sights on international work opportunities now that Wintec has successfully achieved robust accreditation and endorsement by the IT industry.
Wintec's Bachelor of Applied Information Technology degree is now accredited and industry-endorsed by IT Professionals NZ (ITP) which is affiliated with similar bodies in 54 other countries.
Wintec dean, Gaye Barton says the comprehensive degree accreditation programme, run by ITP and aligned with similar accreditations in many other countries around the world, recognises computing and IT degrees that provide the best pathway to work opportunities in New Zealand and overseas.
“This accreditation puts Wintec’s Bachelor of Applied Information Technology degree on a par with degrees from around the world and it means our graduates are receiving internationally-recognised training and a global job ticket.”
“The accreditation gives graduates a fast-track route to globally-recognised individual certification, as well as significantly greater industry recognition across many countries. This will in effect, fast-track their career by increasing their prospects of securing a job in New Zealand and offshore.”
At the invitation of tertiary institutions, the accreditation process involves a comprehensive review of everything to do with a computing degree programme, including a multi-day campus visit by a panel of academic and industry experts.
Professor Stephen MacDonell, Chair of the ITP NZ Accreditations Board, says: "Before a programme can be endorsed by the IT industry's professional body, the visiting panel and accreditations board follow an in-depth process to consider whether it meets the needs of local industry – as such we pay particular attention to evidence of things like industry engagement, team-work, practical application of theoretical skills, staff capability, and professional practice."
"It's a very thorough process, and students of these programmes can be assured their degrees are robust and will be recognised both locally and on the international stage."
ITP chief executive Paul Matthews is pleased with the result.
"We're very happy to be in a position to recognise and endorse this degree programme. The accreditation process is very thorough and students can be assured that graduates from Wintec’s Bachelor of Applied IT have the skills our industry is looking for,” he says.
“Wintec’s degree is a great pathway into the IT industry.”
Find out more about Wintec's Bachelor of Applied Information Technology here.
Background
IT Professionals NZ (ITP) degree accreditation is modelled on the international Seoul Accord agreement, of which ITPNZ is a provisional signatory. Once full signatory status is granted, accredited computing degrees will be formally recognised across all signatory countries as meeting robust international best practice standards for computing undergraduate degrees. Current Accord signatories include Australia, Canada, Chinese Taipei, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea, the United Kingdom and United States.
