The Graduate Diploma in Arts (Geography) at Massey University is designed for students who already hold an undergraduate degree and want to gain specialised knowledge in Geography without completing a second bachelor’s degree.

The programme provides advanced undergraduate-level study in:

• Human geography
• Environmental geography
• Sustainability
• Climate and environmental change
• GIS and spatial analysis
• Resource management
• Social and cultural geography

It is ideal for students seeking:

• Career change opportunities
• Professional upskilling
• Preparation for postgraduate study
• Additional expertise in environmental and geographical studies

Why Study Geography – Graduate Diploma in Arts at Massey University?

Students choose this programme because it offers:

•  Flexible pathway into Geography without completing another bachelor’s degree
• Strong focus on sustainability and environmental issues
• Exposure to GIS and geospatial technologies
• Practical fieldwork and research opportunities
• Flexible online and distance learning options
• Interdisciplinary Arts education
• Preparation for postgraduate qualifications
• New Zealand and global environmental case studies

Programme Structure / Subjects Offered

Students can select Geography papers according to their interests and academic background.

Example Geography Courses

Society, Environment and Place

Topics include:

• Human geography
• Identity and exclusion
• Migration
• Economy and society
• Urban processes

Geographies of Aotearoa/New Zealand

Students explore:

• Environmental change
• Indigenous perspectives
• Regional development
• Climate impacts
• Cultural landscapes

Our Dynamic Earth

Focuses on:

• Earth systems
• Natural hazards
• Plate tectonics
• Rivers and glaciers
• Climate systems

Land and Water

Students learn:

• Hydrology
• Catchment systems
• Water quality
• Environmental management
• Land-use impacts

Research Practice in Human Geography

Covers:

•  Geographic research methods
• Qualitative analysis
• Fieldwork
• Human geography theory

Topics and Areas of Study

Students may study:

•  Human Geography
• Environmental Geography
• Sustainability
• Climate Change
• Urban Geography
• Migration Studies
• Resource Management
• Geopolitics
• GIS and Mapping
• Spatial Analysis
• Cultural Landscapes
• Environmental Planning
• Hydrology
• Physical Geography

Disciplines / Specialisations Offered

The Graduate Diploma in Arts allows study across a wide range of Arts disciplines.

Within Geography, students may focus on:

•  Human Geography
• Physical Geography
• Environmental Geography
• Sustainability Studies
• GIS and Spatial Analysis
• Urban and Regional Geography

Career Outcomes

Graduates may work in:

• Environmental Consulting
• Resource Management
• GIS and Spatial Analysis
• Urban Planning Support
• Conservation
• Sustainability Coordination
• Community Development
• Tourism and Regional Development
• Government and Local Councils
• Research and Data Analysis
• Policy Support Roles

The qualification can also prepare students for:

•  Postgraduate diplomas
• Honours programmes
• Master’s degrees
• Research careers

Highlights of the Programme

• Flexible one-year graduate diploma pathway
• Strong sustainability and climate focus
• Online and distance learning options
• Practical fieldwork and research opportunities
• GIS and geospatial learning opportunities
• Pathway to postgraduate study
• Interdisciplinary Arts qualification
• New Zealand-focused environmental perspectives

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

Students should note:

• Some Geography papers are not available every semester.
• Certain advanced courses may require prerequisites.
• Selected courses may include compulsory fieldwork.
• Returning students should review transitional regulations for updated course structures.
• Distance students may need to attend limited workshops or practical sessions for some papers.

Visa Requirements for International Students

International students studying in New Zealand generally require:

• Valid New Zealand student visa
• Offer of place from Massey University
• Proof of tuition fee payment
• Evidence of sufficient living funds
• Valid passport
• Medical and travel insurance
• English language proficiency documents

Students should also review:

•  Part-time work rights during study
• Post-study work visa eligibility
• Health and character requirements under New Zealand immigration rules