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Diploma in Social Media Marketing and Content Creation (Level 5)

Make, shoot, edit, and design content that performs.

100% online. Study from anywhere in New Zealand.
1 year full-time. 2 years part-time. 

The Diploma in Social Media Marketing and Content Creation (Level 5) is built for makers, not memorisers. 

Built for people who learn by doing and want industry-ready skills, not theory-heavy study. The learning is structured, supported, and designed to move you forward. 

You plan, produce, and publish content across platforms using the same tools and workflows used in industry. You graduate with an NZQA-accredited qualification and a portfolio of proof, including 30+ finished pieces of content that show you can do the job. 

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Short Courses

Diploma in Social Media Marketing and Content Creation (Level 5)

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Entry Criteria
Level
5
Delivery Method
Online Campus
Duration
1 Year full time
2 Years part time
Start Date
23rd February, 2026

From real output to recognised qualification.

Practical skills, not just theory
You don’t just learn about content. You make it. This course is built around hands-on work, using briefs and tasks that get you creating from the start. 

Learn by doing. Every week.
The fastest way to learn is to make things. From day one, you’re building content, creating digital assets, running campaigns, and shaping ideas week by week. 

Tools you’ll actually use
There’s a lot of software out there. This course focuses on the tools that matter for content and social media work.
You’ll work with Canva, Adobe Creative Cloud (Premiere Pro, Photoshop, InDesign), ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google Gemini, Microsoft Copilot, Meta Business Suite, TikTok and Google Ads Managers, Notion, and more. 

Assessments that play to your strengths
If essays aren’t your thing, that’s fine. You can show your work by writing it, filming it, designing it, or pitching it. What matters is what you can do, not how neatly you can write about it. 

social media course tools

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Online, but never hands-off.

  • 100% online with live classes and industry guest speakers 
  • Around 6 hours of live sessions each week plus project work 
  • 30% guided learning, 70% hands-on creation 
  • Portfolio-first assessment model 
  • Practical assessments only. No essays 

How your creation work is supported 

  • Clear creative briefs with defined performance goals 
  • Live feedback sessions to refine work in progress 
  • Ongoing tutor input during production, not just final delivery 
  • Templates, exemplars, and platform best-practice frameworks 

The NZIE Difference

Digital is everywhere.
Serious digital education is not. 

Digital is all we do. For over ten years. We’re a specialist provider focused solely on digital marketing, with learning shaped by a decade of industry change and built around the work employers actually expect. 

NZQA Category 1 accredited. The highest quality rating in New Zealand. Independently reviewed. Nationally recognised. Held to clear academic and industry standards. 

Live, structured, and human-led. Taught online, in real time, with clear weekly briefs, regular feedback, and active tutor support. 

Online, but never hands-off. When the work stretches you, support does not disappear. Tutors check in, pressure-test ideas, and help unblock progress so you can keep moving forward. 

Capability over theory. No essays. You build campaigns, ads, content, and performance reports that mirror the work done in industry. 

Strategy before software. Tools change. Platforms shift. We teach the thinking, judgement, and decision-making that outlasts them. 

Built for real career movement. Whether starting out, switching careers, or upskilling, graduates leave able to do the work, explain their decisions, and operate with confidence. 

Where this could take you

This diploma lives where content and social collide.
Making things. Getting them seen. Knowing why they worked and what to do next. 

You learn how to create content and move it through platforms with intent. Planning, posting, promoting, tweaking. Not guessing. Not copying trends blindly. 

You finish with work to show. A portfolio that proves you can make content and think about where it lives, how it travels, and how it performs. From there, you can step into social teams, content roles, freelance work, junior marketing roles, or build your own channels with purpose. 

The skills travel. The platforms change. You keep up. 

Roles include: Social Media Coordinator, Content Marketing Coordinator, Content Creator, Digital Marketing Specialist, Junior Content Producer, Junior Brand Advisor, Junior Account Manager, Social Media Planner. 

More About Common Social Media Marketing Roles

Module snapshot

Authentic Content Creation
Current trends, culture and accessibility. Creative development. UGC. Community management. Copywriting. Platform fundamentals. Design principles that determine how content lands. 

Digital Design for Social Media
Brand consistency across platforms and formats. Audience engagement. Colour and typography. Imagery and layout. Photoshop capability. Copyright and IP, including AI-related considerations. 

Video Production for Social Media
Scripting. Filming. Storyboarding. Lighting. Editing in Premiere Pro. Sound and music. Graphics. Platform-ready delivery. 

Live Content Creation
Live streaming and podcasting formats. Planning and pitching. Real-time audience engagement. Lighting and camera setup. Managing scripted and unscripted delivery. 

Social Media Future Technology
AI tools in workflow. Prompt writing. Generative and assistive AI. Bias and responsible use. AI image generation and targeting. Automation vs AI. APIs. Using tools to support job search and interviews. 

Paid Social Media Advertising
Campaign goal setting. Budgeting. Content creation. Setup and optimisation across major platforms. Reporting. Affiliate and influencer approaches. 

Presenting Social Media Data
Performance tracking. Metric interpretation. Data visualisation. Reporting tools (Canva, Excel, PowerPoint, Illustrator). ROI and optimisation decisions. Trends in analytics. 

Industry Project
Final portfolio and industry-style project. Build a full campaign end to end using course blueprints and checklists. Target market definition. Personas. Content marketing improvements. 

social media diploma student review

Entry Criteria

Domestic Fees

2026 Course Tuition Fees: $9,552

Student loan available through Study Link. Check if you are eligible here.

Course Related Costs:

Item Cost $ (approximate)
Adobe Creative Cloud $600
Canva $200
Optional Course Costs
Microsoft Office $150

 

Course-related costs are subject to currency changes. Please check the fee at the time of enrolment.

Fees-Free Scheme

If you are a first-time tertiary learner, you may be able to get Fees Free for your final year of study, up to $12,000.

Why NZIE?

A practical, supportive way to start your career. 

Learn by doing
You build real content and campaigns from day one through hands-on, interactive learning. 

Guidance from industry professionals
You are taught by people working in social media and content roles who bring current platforms, tools, and expectations into the classroom. 

Support beyond the classroom
Student Services provide academic, wellbeing, and career support to help you stay on track and plan next steps. 

Study options that fit your life
Choose full-time or part-time study, with online delivery designed to balance learning and life commitments. 

Quality assured
NZIE is approved and accredited by NZQA and TEC, with Category 1 provider status. 

Key information for students

The easy way to see qualification info

testimonials

Success Stories

Digital Marketing Student Collette
Reset, Rebuild, Reimagine: Collette’s Leap into Digital Marketing
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kiki student photo
Kiki Landed a Paid Internship in Digital Marketing Before Graduating!
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NZIE Diploma in Digital Marketing Graduate, Marianne
Building a Business While Studying Digital Marketing
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Adriaan Diploma student NZIE
Swapping Farming for a Social Media Marketing Diploma
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NZIE is accredited and approved by:

NZQA

New Zealand Qualification Authority (NZQA)

This is a government department that sets the standards for courses and quality. https://www.nzqa.govt.nz/. NZIE is a Category 1 Provider. You can find the last EER report here.

Tertiary Education Commission

Tertiary Education Commission (TEC)

This government department funds institutes to accept local domestic students. This means that New Zealanders can study at NZIE and also access the Student Loan and Allowance scheme to support them through their studies. https://www.tec.govt.nz/
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Entry Criteria

To gain entry into the Programme, an applicant must meet either the General Entry OR the Special Entry Requirements AND the English Language Requirements. 

All applicants are interviewed prior to enrolment. 

General Entry Requirements 

To be eligible to enter the programme under General Entry Requirements, an applicant must be able to present evidence that they have met the following requirements: 

1. Be over the age of 18, AND gained ONE or more of the following: 

2. NCEA Level 3, OR 

3. A New Zealand Certificate at level 4 or above, OR 

4. Be over the age of 21. 

Special Entry Requirements 

To be eligible to enter the programme under a Special Entry Requirement, the applicant must be able to demonstrate the following requirements: 

1. Be over the age of 16, AND 

2. Completed NCEA Level 2, OR 

3. A New Zealand Certificate at level 3 or above, AND 

4. Demonstrate an interest and desire to enter a marketing career, AND 

5. Demonstrate a commitment to completing the programme. 

All Special Entry Applications will be considered for approval by the Academic Board or their delegated reviewee. 

English Language Entry Requirements 

To be eligible to enter the programme, an applicant must be able to present evidence that they meet one or more of the following English Language Entry Requirements 

1. English is your first language, OR 

2. Te reo Māori is your first language and English is your second language; OR 

3. Successfully completed 3 years secondary education when English was the primary language of delivery; OR 

4. Successfully completed an NZQA level 3 study, or equivalent, in any programme when English was the primary language of delivery: OR 

5. Successfully attained an IELTS score of 5.5 with no band below 5.0 or an equivalent test. 

Submit your details below to get the Social Media Diploma Brochure.

Entry Criteria:

To be admitted into NZ Certificate in English Language Level 4 Academic, all applicants must meet the following requirements:  

a) Be a speaker of English as an additional language; and
 
b) Hold a NZCEL Applied Level 3 [3667] or the NZCEL General Level 4) [1882]) qualification; or 
 
c) Pass an NZIE entry test that meets the requirements for the CEFR B2 requirements or equivalent; and
 
d) Be of a minimum age of 16 years or older; and
 
e) Be a New Zealand citizenship or permanent residency OR Certificate of Refugee Status and evidence of eligibility to study for the duration of enrolment; OR Have a student visa

Course Content

CREDITS 15
    |    LEVEL 4

(410) Authentic Content Creation with Shawn

This foundational course serves as an introduction to content creation, exploring current trends while emphasizing the importance of culture and accessibility in your work. Students will learn how to integrate cultural elements into their content and develop their creativity, with strategies for staying inspired. We’ll cover essential design principles, including colour theory, form, and proportion, examining how these aspects influence a brand’s messaging. Additionally, students will explore user-generated content, community management, and copywriting, along with a comprehensive overview of social media platforms. This course provides a solid foundation for students as they progress through the rest of the program.

CREDITS 15
    |    LEVEL 4

(411) Digital Design for Social Media with Janelle

Shape your design skills and understanding of branding as well as maintaining consistency across platforms – focusing on trends, formats, and audience engagement. We cover essential elements like color theory, typography, and imagery, and teach students how to become proficient in Photoshop. You’ll become familiar with principles of design and explore the social, political, economic, and cultural implications of creative work, as well as develop an understanding on intellectual property and copyright – particularly around content created with AI.

CREDITS 15
    |    LEVEL 5

(510) Video Production For Social Media with Shay

This class covers the entire video production process, from scripting and filming to post-production, using the latest tools and techniques to create compelling video content. Students will learn about storytelling, visual aesthetics, and sound design, along with practical skills in storyboarding, lighting, editing (using Premiere Pro), adding music and sound effects, and incorporating graphics.

 

CREDITS 15
    |    LEVEL 5

(511) Live Content Creation with Shay

Explore the world of live streaming and podcasting, as well as learn how to plan engaging broadcasts and connect with your audience in real-time. You’ll learn how to pitch ideas to clients and gain hands-on experience with the technical aspects of production, like lighting and camera setup. Learn how to manage both scripted and unscripted content, create effective presentations and set up a functional recording space.

CREDITS 15
    |    LEVEL 5

(512) Social Media Future Technology with Alla

Ever been told you’re not allowed to use AI for an assignment? You SHOULD be using it in this class! Our main focus here is to provide students with the skills to utilise AI for any aspect of their digital marketing journey. You’ll learn how to work with AI tools, (primarily ChatGPT and Claude), to streamline content creation, audience analysis, and campaign management. Key topics include machine learning, large language models, and the principles of effective prompt writing. We’ll also explore generative AI, assistive AI, and the importance of understanding AI bias, along with techniques for AI image generation and audience targeting. Additionally, you’ll gain insights into the differences between AI and automation, learn how to use API keys, and discover effective ways to leverage AI for job searches and interview preparation!

CREDITS 15
    |    LEVEL 5

(513) Paid Social Media Advertising with Shawn

This class equips students with the essential skills to create successful marketing campaigns. Explore paid media strategies, including how to set up, manage, and optimize ads across platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.Students will develop their own campaign from scratch, covering goal setting, budgeting, content creation, campaign reporting, and paid advertising strategies. The class also covers affiliate and influencer marketing, teaching students how to engage communities and build brand loyalty.

CREDITS 15
    |    LEVEL 5

(514) Presenting Social Media Data with Tyler

Numbers might seem daunting to some, but there’s nothing to worry about! In this class, you’ll gain a solid understanding of how to track performance and interpret analytics to make data-driven decisions (it’s easier than it sounds)! We’ll investigate different types of key social media metrics, such as reach, impressions, and engagement, and explore data visualization techniques to present this information effectively and aesthetically, using tools like Canva, Excel, PowerPoint, and Illustrator. Students will learn to create various infographic styles and design elements while familiarising themselves with typical data collection methods. Additionally, we’ll examine future technologies for data analysis and discover trends to help inform and improve your strategy. The course will also cover foundational aspects of paid media, including campaign performance, return on investment, and optimisation strategies.

CREDITS 15
    |    LEVEL 6

(610) Industry Project with Matt.

In this class, you’ll showcase your skills by compiling a final portfolio that highlights your best work. You’ll engage in an industry project that simulates real-world marketing tasks, collaborating with an existing business to identify areas for improvement in their strategy. You will build a comprehensive campaign from start to finish (guided by course blueprints and tutor checklists). You’ll work with your chosen business to define their target market, develop buyer personas, and enhance their content marketing. This hands-on experience will allow you to demonstrate your abilities and complete your portfolio – ready to make a strong impression as a top candidate in a competitive job market.

Submit your details below to get the Digital Marketing Strategy Brochure.

Submit your details below to get the Diploma in Digital Marketing Brochure.

Entry Criteria:

To be admitted into NZ Certificate in English Language Level 4 General, all applicants must meet the following requirements:

a) Be a speaker of English as an additional language; and

b) Hold a NZCEL Applied Level 3 [3667] qualification; or

c) Pass an NZIE entry test that meets the requirements for the CEFR B2 requirements or equivalent; and

d) Be of a minimum age of 16 years or older; and.

e) Be a New Zealand citizenship or permanent residency OR Certificate of Refugee Status and evidence of eligibility to study for the duration of enrolment.

Entry Criteria:

To be admitted into NZ Certificate in English Language Level 3 General, all applicants must meet the following requirements:

a) Be a speaker of English as an additional language; and

b) Hold a NZCEL Level 2 qualification; or

c) Pass an NZIE entry test that meets the requirements for the CEFR mid B1 requirements or equivalent; and

d) Be of a minimum age of 16 years or older; and.

e) Be a New Zealand citizen or resident; or have Certificate of Refugee Status and evidence of eligibility to study for the duration of enrolment.

Fees 2020

Student loans available through Study Link. Check if you are eligible here. 

Fees-Free Study.  

You are only eligible for Fees-Free if you haven’t previously undertaken more than 60 credits (half a year of equivalent full-time tertiary education, 0.5 EFTS) at Level 3 or above on the NZQF – New Zealand Qualifications Framework.

To check if you meet the requirements, visit the New Zealand Government’s Fees-Free website and enter your National Student Number (NSN). 

If you do not have an NSN, contact your Student Support Advisor.

Thanks for your interest in studying digital marketing with NZIE. Drop us your details, and we’ll be in touch soon!​

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