The second type [separate], which has distinct and separate steps,  is offered by Waikato University. It requires candidates to complete their Diploma program prior to being considered for admission to the MBA. [Waikato will allow their Bachelor of Management Studies (Honours) students to proceed to their MBA without first completing their Diploma.]

The third type [customized], which includes Canterbury, Otago and Victoria universities allows potential MBA candidates who do not already hold a tertiary qualification to enrol in diploma courses that may be given credit within their MBA programs. Candidates relinquish the pursuit of their Diploma when they are admitted to the MBA. [Victoria has a certificate program, which may allow participants to transfer into their MBA.]

The stair-cased designs allow the institutions to confirm the appropriateness of candidates before admitting them to their MBA program or ultimately granting the degree. This is especially true in the second and third types where academic performance in the earlier steps or units is considered when candidates wish to pursue the MBA. Students are required to have a "B" to "B+" average on previous certificate/diploma study within the institution.

The stair-casing design was less popular with the 2007 entering MBA students than in the previous year.

In total, approximately 220 faculty members teach on MBA programs in New Zealand. Of the 10 institutions, the Henley Management College has the largest number internationally (113). Reportedly the largest number (45) teaching on a New Zealand based program is at AUT.Southern Cross MBAs have the smallest (12).

The hours of instruction (contact hours) or the structured time available for students to interact with faculty is the most expensive component of most programs. Massey reported the largest number of contact hours (610) while the distance learning programs (Henley and Southern Cross) offer little direct contact (160 and 150 hours respectively) with faculty.

© Mitchell Boock & Associates