The Graduate Diploma in Arts (History) is a Level 7 qualification designed for graduates who want to gain a specialised undergraduate-level major in History without completing a second bachelor’s degree.

It allows students to:

•  Build deep knowledge of historical periods and themes
• Develop research and analytical skills
• Specialise in History as a subject area
• Prepare for postgraduate study or professional careers

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

• Study History from a global and Aotearoa New Zealand perspective
• Learn from internationally recognised historians
• Develop strong research, writing, and critical thinking skills
• Flexible study options (distance + on-campus available)
• Opportunity to specialise in specific historical periods or themes
• Strong foundation for careers in education, heritage, policy, and research
• Pathway into Master’s and postgraduate Arts study
• Access to one of NZ’s most flexible arts programmes

Learning Approach

Students develop:

• Historical analysis skills
• Research methodologies
• Essay writing at advanced academic level
• Critical interpretation of sources

Subjects / Topics Offered (History Focus)

Students may study a wide range of History topics such as:

Core History Themes

• World History
• Modern History
• Early Civilisations
• Colonial and Postcolonial History
• Political History
• Cultural History

Regional History Options

• European History
• Asia-Pacific History
• New Zealand / Aotearoa History
• Indigenous Histories

Skill-Based Learning

• Historical research methods
• Archival studies
• Academic writing
• Source analysis

Disciplines / Specialisations Offered

Within the Graduate Diploma in Arts, History is an endorsement (specialisation).

You may also combine or explore:

• Politics and International Relations
• Sociology
• Geography
• M?ori Studies
• Philosophy
• Media Studies

Career Outcomes

A History Graduate Diploma can lead to careers in:

Education & Teaching

• Teaching (with further qualification)
• Education support roles

Heritage & Culture

• Museum assistant
• Archives officer
• Heritage research assistant

Government & Policy

• Policy analyst
• Research officer
• Public service roles

Media & Communication

• Writer / Journalist
• Content researcher
• Communications assistant

Further Study Pathways

• Master of Arts (History)
• Postgraduate Diploma in Arts
• Research or PhD pathways

Highlights of the Programme

• Equivalent to a full undergraduate History major
• Flexible distance learning (ideal for international students)
• Strong research-focused curriculum
• Covers global + New Zealand history
• Pathway into postgraduate Arts study
• Develops strong academic writing and analytical skills
• Suitable for career changers or interdisciplinary learners

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

• Some History courses require essay-heavy assessment and research work
• No 100-level courses allowed in this qualification
• Students may need to meet prerequisites for some electives
• Strong emphasis on critical thinking and source-based analysis
• Flexible endorsement system allows interdisciplinary study

Visa Requirements (International Students)

To study in New Zealand (on-campus components), students must have:

• Valid New Zealand Student Visa
• Offer of Place from Massey University
• Proof of tuition fee payment
• Proof of living funds
• Valid passport
• Health and travel insurance
• English language proficiency proof