The purpose of this qualification is to provide Aotearoa New Zealand with people who have the essential skills for further study that will equip them to work in the field of Information Technology (IT) as a profession. Some learners may use this qualification as a pathway from the computing user qualifications to the professional IT qualifications. Graduates will have gained internationally relevant transferable skills and knowledge across a range of disciplines within IT, essential for working under broad guidance in a range of entry-level support roles which may include business support or retail roles, and some roles in the IT profession. Graduates will also be capable of communicating with relevant stakeholders in a professional manner.

The intention of this qualification is primarily to provide a pathway to further IT study. Graduates of this certificate will have the transferable skills and knowledge to work in a range of entry level support roles in an organisation, which may include business support or retail roles, and some roles in the IT profession under broad guidance.