University of Auckland

What you'll study

The BCom (Honours) is an intensive, discipline-focused year that combines advanced coursework with an independent research project or thesis. Students specialise in one business area such as Accounting, Finance, Economics, Marketing, Management, Information Systems, Operations, or Commercial Law and take modules that cover contemporary theory, applied methods and sector-specific issues.

• Advanced coursework: seminars and lecture courses on topics such as corporate reporting and assurance, international finance, micro‑ and macro‑economic analysis, marketing strategy, organisational behaviour, strategic management, business analytics, econometrics and legal aspects of commerce.
• Research methods: training in research design, quantitative and/or qualitative methods, and critical literature review appropriate to the chosen discipline.
• Honours dissertation or major project: an independent research project supervised by an academic staff member; the project develops research skills and applies theory to a substantive question in the field.
• Optional professional or applied components: depending on the major, applied case work, industry projects or advanced technical modules (for example, advanced accounting practice or financial modelling).

Entry requirements

Applicants must normally hold a Bachelor of Commerce (or equivalent) with strong academic performance in their intended honours discipline. Selection requires demonstrable excellence in undergraduate study in relevant courses and usually completion of required prerequisite subjects within the major.

• Academic achievement: a high grade point average in the undergraduate degree demonstrating readiness for advanced study and research.
• Prerequisite coursework: completion of core or advanced papers in the chosen major during the bachelor degree.
• Additional requirements: some majors may require an interview or the submission of a research proposal; international applicants should provide certified transcripts and proof of English language proficiency where applicable.

Career prospects

Graduates of the BCom (Honours) are well placed for a range of careers that demand advanced analytical, research and specialist business skills. Many move into senior professional roles, specialist advisory positions, or management tracks within the private and public sectors.

• Corporate and professional services: senior analyst, consultant, financial controller, management accountant or corporate strategist.
• Finance and investment: roles in corporate finance, investment analysis, risk management and treasury functions.
• Public policy and government: policy analyst, economic advisor or regulatory specialist.
• Research and analytics: market researcher, data analyst or roles in business intelligence and applied econometrics.
• Further study and academia: the honours year provides direct preparation for postgraduate study such as a Master’s or PhD and for careers in academic research and teaching.

Why study at University of Auckland

The University of Auckland’s business programmes are taught by research-active academics and industry-experienced staff, providing a combination of rigorous theory and practical application. Studying honours here gives access to supervision from specialists across business disciplines, research centres, and strong links with Auckland’s commercial and public sector employers.

• Location and industry engagement: based in New Zealand’s largest city, the university offers proximity to a wide range of firms, professional services and government agencies for networking and project opportunities.
• Research environment: honours students benefit from a vibrant research culture and the possibility of continuing to higher research degrees.
• Support and resources: students have access to library collections, data resources, career services and academic development workshops tailored to honours-level study.