The Postgraduate Certificate in Arts is a Level 8 postgraduate qualification designed for students who want to:

• Develop advanced knowledge in a specialised arts discipline
• Strengthen professional and academic skills
• Upskill in a focused subject area
• Prepare for higher postgraduate study
• Advance careers in communication, social sciences, languages, media, education, and cultural sectors

Why Study Postgraduate Certificate in Arts at AUT?

Flexible Postgraduate Study

The programme allows students to specialise in areas aligned with their academic background and career interests.

Industry-Relevant Learning

AUT’s arts programmes focus on:

• Real-world applications
• Professional communication
• Social impact
• Critical thinking
• Cultural awareness
• Contemporary global issues

Pathway to Further Study

The qualification can provide progression into:

• Postgraduate Diploma in Arts
• Master’s degrees
• Research-focused postgraduate study

Strong Academic Support

Students benefit from:

• Experienced faculty
• Small class sizes
• Research-informed teaching
• Career support services

Interdisciplinary Learning

Students may combine subjects across:

• Communication
• Languages
• Psychology
• Social sciences
• International studies
• Criminology
• Education

Subjects / Topics Offered

Depending on the selected discipline, students may study topics such as:

• Media and communication
• Digital storytelling
• Social policy
• International relations
• Human behaviour
• Psychology research
• Public communication
• Leadership
• Cultural studies
• Language and identity
• Community development
• Contemporary social issues

Career Outcomes

Graduates may pursue careers in:

• Media and communications
• Public relations
• Education and training
• Community development
• International relations
• Government and policy
• Human services
• Research and analysis
• Social advocacy organisations
• Cultural and creative industries

The qualification can also support progression into:

• Postgraduate Diploma in Arts
• Master’s programmes
• Research and academic careers

Programme Highlights

Key Advantages

• Flexible postgraduate study options
• Broad range of arts disciplines
• Strong practical and academic balance
• Industry-connected learning
• Multicultural learning environment
• Pathway to further postgraduate study
• Internationally recognised qualification
• Research-informed teaching

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

Important Notes

• Course availability may vary each semester.
• Some subjects may require prerequisite undergraduate study.
• Early application is recommended for international students.
• Students should confirm discipline-specific requirements before enrolment.

Recent student discussions online also highlight:

• AUT’s supportive learning environment
• Strong focus on practical employability skills
• Positive experiences with smaller class sizes and lecturer accessibility

Visa Requirements for International Students

International students generally require a New Zealand Fee-Paying Student Visa.

Common Visa Requirements Include

• AUT offer of place
• Valid passport
• Proof of tuition fee payment
• Evidence of sufficient living funds
• English language evidence
• Medical and travel insurance
• Health and character certificates

Student Work Rights

Eligible international students may generally:

• Work up to 20 hours per week during study
• Work full-time during scheduled holidays

Overall Summary

The Postgraduate Certificate in Arts at AUT is a flexible and career-focused postgraduate qualification designed for students seeking advanced knowledge in arts, communication, psychology, social sciences, education, languages, and related disciplines. The programme combines academic depth with practical industry relevance and provides a strong pathway into higher postgraduate study or professional advancement.

For international students, AUT offers a supportive multicultural environment, modern campus facilities, flexible subject choices, and globally recognised qualifications that prepare graduates for careers across communication, education, policy, media, and social sectors.