Why Study Bachelor of Arts (Honours) at AUT?

The Bachelor of Arts (Honours) is designed mainly for high-achieving graduates who want to deepen their subject expertise, strengthen research skills, and prepare for leadership or further postgraduate study.

The programme is ideal for students interested in:

• advanced research,
• critical analysis,
• academic development,
• specialised professional knowledge,
• pathway progression to master’s or doctoral study.

AUT’s honours programmes emphasise:

• supervised research,
• advanced theoretical learning,
• independent thinking,
• applied research skills,
• academic mentoring.

Students benefit from:

• small postgraduate learning environments,
• expert academic supervision,
• interdisciplinary learning opportunities,
• industry-relevant research projects.

Programme Structure

Students complete:

• advanced coursework,
• research methodology studies,
• and a supervised dissertation.

Disciplines / Specialisations Offered

Students can specialise in the following areas:

• Criminology and Criminal Justice
• Global Tourism
• International Hospitality Management
• Psychology

Example Subjects and Topics

The exact courses depend on the chosen specialisation.

Education Specialisation

Example papers include:

• Educational Research
• Contemporary Issues in Education
• Learning Environments for the 21st Century
• Innovations in Early Childhood Education
• Kaupapa M?ori Approaches
• Exploring Language Issues in Education
• Dissertation

Psychology Specialisation

Example papers include:

•  Advanced Theory in Social and Developmental Psychology
• Readings in Psychology
• Selected Topics in Psychology
• Quantitative Research II
• Qualitative Research II
• Dissertation

Skills You Will Develop

Students develop advanced:

• research and analytical skills,
• academic writing,
• communication,
• problem-solving,
• critical thinking,
• professional knowledge,
• independent research capability.

The honours qualification also strengthens preparation for:

• Master of Arts,
• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD),
• research careers,
• specialist professional roles.

Career Outcomes

Graduates may pursue careers in:

• education,
• research,
• tourism,
• hospitality,
• psychology-related sectors,
• policy development,
• communications,
• management,
• public service,
• academic and consulting roles.

Possible Career Roles

• Research Analyst
• Education Specialist
• Tourism Consultant
• Hospitality Manager
• Policy Advisor
• Community Development Officer
• Communications Specialist
• Academic Researcher

Psychology graduates may also work in:

• public health promotion,
• counselling support environments,
• community services,
• teaching and training.

Highlights of the Programme

• Advanced Level 8 honours qualification
• Strong pathway to master’s and doctoral study
• Supervised 60-point dissertation
• Research-focused learning
• Multiple specialisation options
• Part-time study available
• Industry-relevant and academically rigorous
• Access to experienced academic supervisors
• Modern campuses and postgraduate learning facilities

Latest Updates and Special Notes

• Criminology and Criminal Justice specialisation is currently not offered to new students.
• Some courses may depend on enrolment numbers and faculty approval.
• Students are encouraged to discuss course planning with programme leaders before enrolment.
• The honours degree serves as a recognised pathway into advanced postgraduate research programmes.

Visa Requirements for International Students

International students generally require:

• Valid New Zealand student visa
• Offer of Place from AUT
• Proof of tuition fee payment
• Evidence of sufficient living funds
• Valid passport
• Medical insurance
• English language proof
• Health and character documentation

Further Study Opportunities

Graduates may continue into:

• Master of Arts
• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
• Advanced research programmes
• Professional postgraduate qualifications