The University of Auckland (also known as Waipapa Taumata Rau) is New Zealand’s largest and most globally respected university, ranked among the world’s leading institutions. The Faculty of Arts is especially well regarded in the arts and social sciences, offering a wide range of subjects and excellent support for international students including academic advising, orientation programmes and career services.

 

Auckland itself is a diverse, cosmopolitan city, known for high quality of life, multicultural experiences, and vibrant student life.

 

Why Study Graduate Diploma in Arts at Auckland

This graduate diploma is ideal if you:

• Already hold a bachelor’s degree in any discipline
• Want to study Arts subjects at intermediate/advanced levels
• Wish to complement your existing qualification (e.g., add skills in politics, psychology, languages, etc.)
• Are aiming to qualify for postgraduate study (like a Master of Arts) but need subject preparation first
• Want a flexible way to explore new interests or career pathways across humanities and social sciences

 

Subjects / Programme Structure

You will tailor your study by choosing courses from a wide range of Arts and Humanities disciplines. Flexibility is a key feature — you can combine courses across fields as long as programme requirements are met.

Major & Disciplines Options (examples)

Available majors/subjects typically include:

• Anthropology

• Asian Studies

• Art History

• Politics & International Relations

• Philosophy

• Psychology

• Sociology

• Linguistics

• Media & Screen Studies

• M?ori and Indigenous Studies

• TESOL & Applied Linguistics
  …and more (each subject has stage-level course lists).

You are usually required to take:

• 60 points in a major subject (with advanced courses)

• Additional 60 points from electives

 

Disciplines / Specialisations

This diploma doesn’t force a narrow specialisation but allows you to focus on areas that align with your goals, such as:

• Culture & Society

• Language, Literature & Communication

• Media & Screen

• Political Thought

• Psychology Foundations

• Indigenous & M?ori Studies

• Interdisciplinary Pathways

 

Highlights & Benefits

• Flexible and interdisciplinary — ideal for combining personal interests or strengthening academic foundations.

• Serves as a pathway to postgraduate study (Master of Arts, research qualifications, etc.).

• Allows international students to gain advanced arts and social science knowledge in a global context.

• Offers career support services through Career Development and Employability Services.

 

Highlights & Benefits

• Flexible and interdisciplinary — ideal for combining personal interests or strengthening academic foundations.

• Serves as a pathway to postgraduate study (Master of Arts, research qualifications, etc.).

• Allows international students to gain advanced arts and social science knowledge in a global context.

• Offers career support services through Career Development and Employability Services.

 

Career Outcomes

Although this is a diploma, it enhances your employability and academic profile, supporting roles such as:

• Communications and media roles

• Cultural, community or NGO work

• Government and policy analysis

• Project coordination and research support

• Pathway to specialised postgraduate study leading to careers in academia, public policy, research or consultancy

 

Visa Requirements

As an international student, you must apply for a New Zealand Student Visa before arrival. Requirements commonly include:

• Confirmation of enrolment and offer
• Proof of funds for tuition and living costs
• Medical and travel insurance
• Full-time enrolment evidence

 

Latest Updates & Notes for 2026

• Application deadlines: 8 Dec 2025 (Sem 1) & 8 Jun 2026 (Sem 2) for international students.
• Multiple start options: Summer School (Jan), Sem 1 (Mar) & Sem 2 (Jul).
• Programme must be completed within four years of initial enrolment, though full-time is typical.
• If planning postgraduate study, check specific entry requirements for your intended postgraduate qualification before finalising courses.