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Postgraduate Diploma in Arts Level 8
Why Study the Postgraduate Diploma in Arts at AUT?
- One-year intensive postgraduate qualification.
- Flexible programme allowing students to customise their study plan.
- Wide range of advanced Arts courses to choose from.
- Develop advanced research, analytical and communication skills.
- Learn from experienced academics and researchers.
- Strong preparation for Master's level study.
- Modern teaching facilities in Auckland's central business district.
- Multicultural learning environment with students from around the world.
- Industry-informed teaching and research-led curriculum.
Programme Structure
The Postgraduate Diploma in Arts is a 120-point coursework programme.
Students complete 120 points selected from the Master of Arts course offerings in their chosen discipline. The programme is highly flexible, allowing students to tailor their studies to their academic interests while developing advanced disciplinary knowledge and research capabilities. Successful graduates may progress to the Master of Arts or Master of Philosophy, subject to meeting progression requirements.
Subjects / Topics Offered
Course selections vary depending on the chosen discipline. Students typically undertake advanced postgraduate courses in areas such as:
- Advanced Research Methods
- Contemporary Issues in Society
- Culture and Identity
- Public Policy
- Communication and Media
- Critical Theory
- Language and Linguistics
- Indigenous Studies
- Social Research
- Professional Practice
- Applied Humanities
- Advanced Academic Writing
- Independent Research Projects
Disciplines / Specialisations Offered
Students can normally select postgraduate courses from areas including:
- Creative Writing
- Education
- History
- International Studies
- M?ori Development
- Language and Culture
- Social Sciences
- Public Policy
- Psychology (where eligible)
- New Zealand Sign Language and Deaf Studies
- Other Arts disciplines offered within the Master of Arts framework
Programme Highlights
- NZQF Level 8 postgraduate qualification.
- Flexible programme with a wide choice of postgraduate courses.
- Opportunity to specialise in a chosen Arts discipline.
- Develop advanced analytical, research and communication skills.
- Taught by experienced academics and researchers.
- Excellent preparation for Master's study.
- Strong emphasis on critical thinking and independent learning.
- Study in Auckland, New Zealand's largest and most diverse city.
Career Outcomes
Graduates may pursue careers in areas such as:
- Policy Advisor
- Research Officer
- Programme Coordinator
- Community Development Advisor
- Cultural Advisor
- Government Officer
- Communications Specialist
- International Development Officer
- Education Administrator
- Public Sector Consultant
- Social Policy Analyst
- Non-Government Organisation (NGO) Professional
Visa Requirements
International students must obtain a New Zealand Student Visa before commencing study.
Typical requirements include:
- Offer of Place from AUT.
- Payment of tuition fees (where required).
- Valid passport.
- Evidence of sufficient funds for tuition and living expenses.
- Proof of English language proficiency.
- Medical examination and chest X-ray (if applicable).
- Police clearance certificate (if required).
- Approved medical and travel insurance.
- Compliance with Immigration New Zealand student visa conditions throughout the programme.
Latest Updates / Special Requirements
- The programme is a 120-point coursework qualification delivered using courses from the Master of Arts.
- Students must meet the prerequisite subject requirements and maintain the required academic standard for admission.
- Successful graduates may be eligible to continue into the Master of Arts or Master of Philosophy, depending on academic performance and programme requirements.
- Tuition fees, available disciplines and intake dates are reviewed annually, so applicants should confirm the latest information before applying.

