Partnering to build capacity in project management

Tuihono UC | UC Online has partnered with NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) | Waka Kotahi to co-create and deliver a two-part micro-credential in project management. This University of Canterbury qualification provides the NZTA | Waka Kotahi teams with the confidence and knowledge to effectively manage a range of projects, a skill critical to transport system delivery and maintenance.

The partnership

In 2022, Tuihono UC | UC Online began a project with NZTA | Waka Kotahi to address an identified need in the area of project management. It was part of a wider programme to support the organisation’s people to develop subject matter expertise in selected areas.

The University of Canterbury (UC) micro-credential, piloted throughout 2023 and continuing throughout 2024/25, helps build project management capability throughout the organisation.

This successful collaboration involved detailed planning and engagement workshops with the subject matter expert, the learning and development leads, and the course development team. The organisations worked together to incorporate and weave together relevant aspects of Te Ao Māori with cultural experts.

"I have gained a clear understanding of what a project is, project life cycle and how to manage project effectively and efficiently"

The micro-credential

The micro-credential is made up of two 25-hour courses delivered over sixteen weeks. The first course introduces learners to fundamental knowledge and skills on project management, while the second allows learners to focus on a project of their choice at NZTA | Waka Kotahi, allowing them to apply their new knowledge and skills.

"I really liked that the information was presented in bite-sized chunks"

Successful completion of Managing Projects Successfully provides learners with 5 university credits at Level 6 and a UC digital badge. This badge, a smart image that is hyperlinked to information about the credential, course, and skills learners have acquired, can be shared on learners’ LinkedIn profiles and online portfolios.

"I have become more confident in my work"

The online learning model provides the learners with the opportunity to engage with the learning content at their own pace. Weekly real-time tutorials with the facilitator and support from the Tuihono UC | UC Online’s Learner Support Team ensured that learners were kept on track and motivated to complete the micro-credential to a high standard.

"Without exaggeration, there is stuff from each lesson which I've been able to apply to my daily work to drive improvement"

Professional Project Management: The Tuihono UC | UC Online public course

Recognising that a wide range of industries across Aotearoa New Zealand have an identified, and growing, need for project management skills, Tuihono UC | UC Online adapted this tailored course to create a public version. This course, Professional Project Management, opened for learners in January 2024 quickly becoming one of the most popular course offerings.

Learn more about Professional Project Management, or explore how we can support your team with our group training and industry training solutions.