What is the time requirement for this programme?

If we look at this from a purely academic perspective, a micro-credential is worth 15 educational credits which equates to 150 hours of learning. But how much time you need to commit each week will depend on the length of the programme. This 10-week micro-credential includes an average of 15 learning hours per week. The Internet of Things for Sustainability micro-credential’s blended delivery approach includes self-directed and directed learning activities supported by weekly 90 minute virtual synchronous class sessions. Online synchronous sessions will take place on Tuesday 4.00-5.30pm. These sessions will be recorded, although we highly recommend attendance where possible to get full value from the programme. For further information, download our prospectus .

What are the entry requirements?

To be eligible to study on the Programme, applicants must meet the admission criteria. The high-level entry criteria as approved by NZQA are as follows: A Bachelor’s degree or an equivalent level qualification OR equivalent professional experience in a relevant field. For further information, including how to demonstrate equivalent professional experience, download our prospectus .

When do applications close?

Applications close one week before the start date of the intake you are applying for. Applications may be accepted on a case-by-case basis after the application close date at the discretion of academyEX. Please contact us if applications are closed and you would like to apply.

Who is this programme for?

The Internet of Things for Sustainability Micro-credential (15 credits, level 8), supports professionals, organisations and communities from a range of practices to understand the fundamental principles of the Internet of Things (IoT) and develop the skills necessary to apply IoT solutions to sustainability challenges within their practice context. The programme is of value to those with a personal or professional interest in sustainability and curious about how technology can be used to support sustainability initiatives. For example, Professionals across industries where sustainability is central to the continuation and success of the business or organisation, in both an economic and cultural sense. Community or iwi organisation leaders and managers that are seeking contemporary approaches to developing and supporting sustainable environments for people and planet

Do I need to have technical knowledge of Internet of Things technology to be able to do this programme?

Not at all. We have had many learners come into this programme with little or no knowledge of how internet of things technology works, and have completed the course with an understanding of the fundamental principles of the technology and insight into how it could be applied to address sustainability initiatives.

The domestic tuition fee for the Programme is $450 (including GST). Unfortunately, students are not eligible to apply for StudyLink Student Loans for this micro-credential The fee for international students in New Zealand is NZD$1,125 (including GST) The fee for international students outside of New Zealand is NZD$1,087

What is stackable learning?

Our stackable learning means you can take a mix ‘n match approach to building your skills, knowledge and network across programmes, no matter which faculty, so you have a customised toolkit to make change and innovate where it matters most to you. You can think of micro-credentials as building blocks of learning. Each building block could be credited to larger qualifications (e.g. a Master’s degree) if a specific micro-credential aligns to specific learning outcomes covered in a larger qualification. It’s worth having a chat with us about what you’re seeking to achieve for your upskilling so we can help with selecting the right learning pathways for you.

What is a micro-credential?

A micro-credential certifies achievement of a specific and coherent set of skills and/or knowledge. Micro-credentials are created through strong evidence of need by industry, employers, iwi and/or the community. Think of them like a ‘crash course’ on the future – bringing you up to speed on what matters today but also what’s critical for a thriving future. They are designed to be done alongside your busy work and personal life, so you don’t have to take time off to study. Our Micro-credentials give you a recognised NZQA qualification. Delivered through a combination of self-directed learning and weekly live online sessions, you’ll practice and apply the knowledge and skills you learn through two practical assessments. Between 7 and 15 weeks, all micro-credentials have a set price and we run regular intakes at set times of the year.

What do I need to know as an international student?

This programme is available to study as an international student either via online distance learning or if you currently reside in New Zealand and your visa conditions allow study. To find out more about studying with academyEX as an international student, and for programme fees, visit our International Students page.

Can you help me to get support from my organisation to support me to enrol in the programme?

We are very happy to help you to communicate the benefits of studying with academyEX to your employer. If you would like us to provide you with a letter of support or further information, please just ask.

Can I study and work full time at the same time?

Yes, almost all academyEX learners work full time while studying part time. This programme has been designed to fit in around full time work or family commitments, with weekly online sessions taking place at lunchtime or in the late afternoon (usually 4 pm). Assessments are designed to be practical and linked to personal aspirations and projects. If you are concerned about the workload and how you will balance it, please reach out to us and we can chat about how it could work for you.

Can I study fully online or do I need to be able to travel to Auckland for classes?

Micro-credentials are delivered entirely online. Each micro-credential has regular online facilitated classes and self-directed study, that includes viewing videos, completing quizzes and reading relevant papers.

What does orientation look like?

In the lead up to the start of each intake, fully enrolled students will receive onboarding emails from the team, as well as access to platforms that will be used during your study. During the first session, the team will talk through what you can expect during the programme and answer any questions.

Can I do this course with colleagues?

Absolutely. We’ve had loads of students do the course alongside family members, friends and colleagues. There are also opportunities to work collaboratively on assessments during the programme and work together on a project of interest. Learning is always better together!

What sort of assessments are required for micro-credentials?

Generally, a 15 credit micro-credential will comprise two summative assessments. Some assessments are individual and others may be group based to encourage collaboration with others. Assessments are about applying your learning to your practice or context - developing small plans, strategies, designing initiatives, and exploring and evaluating key concepts or ideas. All assessments will add demonstrable value to your applied knowledge of the area you’re learning in. In this micro-credential you will work collaboratively and independently to evaluate and develop proposals for IoT systems that could address sustainability challenges.

MICRO-CREDENTIAL

The Internet of Things for Sustainability

In our increasingly connected world, learn how the Internet of Things (IoT) and big data can tackle sustainability challenges and support future generations. Discover how smart technology can help create a better future for businesses, communities, and the planet.

This innovative Level 8 NZQA-accredited micro-credential (15 credits) dives into the exciting possibilities of IoT and how it works alongside other cutting-edge technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and 5G.

Download 2025 Prospectus

Course duration

Complete in 10 weeks

Time commitment

10-12 hours per week of directed and self-directed learning

Flexible study

100% online, expertly facilitated

Accredited

NZQA accredited, Level 8 (15 Credits)

LEARNING OUTCOMES

What you’ll learn

Whether you're focused on the environment, business, or community resilience, this course will give you the practical tools and confidence of working with developers to help deliver great technology initiatives.

Explore real-world examples, understand the potential of these technologies, and learn how to apply them to solve sustainability problems in your area of interest.

This short course is structured to encourage cross-collaboration and teamwork to help you develop the skills needed to coordinate, engage and communicate with software development and product development teams and business stakeholders in your workplace.

IoT and sustainability

Learn how IoT connects devices and systems to create smarter, more sustainable solutions. Explore its integration with AI, machine learning, and 5G to address global challenges.

Real-world applications

See how IoT is solving sustainability issues like reducing waste, conserving energy, and building resilient communities through inspiring case studies.

Practical skills for impact

Gain hands-on experience designing IoT solutions that make a difference in your field, benefiting businesses, communities, and the planet.

Understanding IoT and its role in sustainability

Gain a solid understanding of IoT fundamentals and how they can support the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Respecting indigenous values and data rights

Discover the importance of data sovereignty and how to apply indigenous values to your work.

Creating a practical sustainability plan

Develop a framework to make strategic decisions with consideration for environmental, societal, cultural, and economic impacts.

Build skills in critical thinking and design

Acquire valuable skills in critical thinking, systems thinking, and user-centered design methodologies.

This course is ideal for:

Anyone interested in sustainability and how technology can support environmental goals.
Professionals working in industries related to technology, environmental management, or smart systems.
Leaders looking to integrate IoT solutions into their business or community projects.
Students or newcomers eager to learn how the Internet of Things can help solve global sustainability challenges.

PATHWAYS

Where this could take you

Follow your passion

Lead a sustainability initiative integrating technology to improve sustainable outcomes in your community, workplace or environment

Boost your career

Deploy new knowledge for your current role or apply for a new role with a sustainability focus and integrate technology for a thriving future.

Continued learning

Stack your credits toward our Master of Technological Futures or Master of Change and Organisational Resilience

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

What you need to apply

Proof of identity

You will need to provide a copy of your passport or birth certificate to confirm your personal details.

Qualifications & work experience

You need to provide proof of previous study and work experience e.g. an academic transcript, graduating certificate, or CV.

English language proficiency

If English is not your first language, you must provide evidence of English language competence e.g. academic IELTS or PTE.
Learn more

HOW TO APPLY

Application and admissions

Step-by-step process to apply for this course:

Apply online

Choose a micro-credential that aligns with your goals and complete an application form. Make sure to submit all the required documentation so your application can be processed as quickly as possible.

Enrolment confirmed

Once your documents and application has been reviewed and approved by our team, you will be enrolled in your course and advised of next steps.

Welcome to the whānau!

You are ready to start your learning journey and join a group of like-minded, life-long learners.

FEES & START DATES

Join the waitlist!

There are currently no dates scheduled for this course. To stay in the loop of when the next intake is coming out, put your name on the waitlist.

To learn more about this course, please get in touch.

TESTIMONIALS

Hear from our EXceptional students

I took the leap - MCOR gave me the confidence to work for myself, doing what I do best. It’s been a total life-changer.

Katie Desai

Master of Change and Organisational Resilience

For Māori and Pasifika wanting to change careers or up-skill, academyEX offers a supportive environment for your journey.

Rio Hemopo-Hunuki

Master of Technological Futures

Being future-ready is simple: hop on, or get left behind! I believe everyone has a responsibility to embrace and prepare for the future.

Lynne Miller

Master of Technological Futures

If you love ideas and you want to engage in an exciting community of people who are creating change give it a go because you have nothing to lose.

Lara Nettle

Master of Change and Organisational Resilience

academyEX is for you if you have an idea, and if you are passionate about it, and if you want the tools and network around you to actually put it together.

Simon Young

Master of Technological Futures

This was the only place where they were providing the kind of context and the information that I wanted to be really future-focused.

Dianne Rafter

Master of Technological Futures

My project focused on harnessing the power of technology through a blended learning model, aiming to transform education delivery.

Kate Lewis

Master of Contemporary Education

If you think you're too busy or tied up with work, academyEX is the place to start—no better way to expand your horizons.

Sumandana

Master of Contemporary Education

KEY INFORMATION

What you need to know

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MICRO-CREDENTIAL

The Internet of Things for Sustainability

Course duration

Time commitment

Flexible study

Accredited

LEARNING OUTCOMES

What you’ll learn

IoT and sustainability

Real-world applications

Practical skills for impact

Understanding IoT and its role in sustainability

Respecting indigenous values and data rights

Creating a practical sustainability plan

Build skills in critical thinking and design

This course is ideal for:

PATHWAYS

Where this could take you

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

What you need to apply

Proof of identity

Qualifications & work experience

English language proficiency

HOW TO APPLY

Application and admissions

Apply online

Enrolment confirmed

Welcome to the whānau!

FEES & START DATES

Join the waitlist!

TESTIMONIALS

Hear from our EXceptional students

KEY INFORMATION

What you need to know

What is the time requirement for this programme?

What are the entry requirements?

When do applications close?

Who is this programme for?

Do I need to have technical knowledge of Internet of Things technology to be able to do this programme?

What are the fees?

What is stackable learning?

What is a micro-credential?

What do I need to know as an international student?

Can you help me to get support from my organisation to support me to enrol in the programme?

Can I study and work full time at the same time?

Can I study fully online or do I need to be able to travel to Auckland for classes?

What does orientation look like?

Can I do this course with colleagues?

What sort of assessments are required for micro-credentials?

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