University of Otago

What you'll study

The Graduate Diploma in Arts Subjects is a taught programme comprising advanced undergraduate-level papers across the arts, humanities and social sciences. Students build a programme from a wide range of subjects offered by the Division of Humanities and the Division of Health Sciences and Faculty of Law where relevant, typically including options such as History, Philosophy, English, Languages, Media Studies, Anthropology, Sociology, Politics, Economics, Geography and Religious Studies.

Typical study elements include:

• Advanced topic papers in a chosen subject or combination of subjects, exploring specialised themes and current debates.
• Research methods or discipline-specific methodology papers that develop critical reading, argumentation and analytical skills applicable across scholarly and professional contexts.
• Elective papers that allow interdisciplinary study or the consolidation of knowledge in a new field.
• A capstone research project or extended essay option, where offered by the subject, to demonstrate applied research skills and independent scholarship.

Students can normally complete the programme full‑time in one year or part‑time over a longer period. Course planning is done in consultation with an academic adviser to ensure papers meet degree requirements and individual learning goals.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) from a New Zealand tertiary institution or an approved overseas qualification. Admission decisions consider academic performance in prior study and the proposed field(s) of study. Some subjects may require evidence of prior preparation in that discipline (for example, language study for advanced language papers).

Applicants without a relevant undergraduate background may be offered a tailored programme or advised on prerequisite papers to meet subject-specific requirements. International applicants must meet the University’s English language proficiency requirements where applicable.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Graduate Diploma in Arts Subjects develop analytical, research and communication skills valued across many sectors. Common career pathways include:

• Policy and public service roles — research, analysis and advisory positions in government and local authorities.
• Communications, media and publishing — writing, editing, digital content and public relations.
• Research assistance and project coordination in think tanks, cultural organisations and NGOs.
• Education pathways — the diploma can serve as preparation for postgraduate teaching qualifications or further postgraduate study (such as a Master’s) in a chosen discipline.
• Heritage, museums and community organisations — roles in curation, outreach and advocacy.

The diploma is often used as a stepping stone to honours or master’s-level study for those seeking academic or specialised professional careers.

Why study at University of Otago

The University of Otago has long-established humanities and social science departments with experienced academic staff who supervise coursework and research projects. The Dunedin campus provides a close-knit academic environment with access to extensive library collections, archival resources and research centres relevant to arts subjects.

Students benefit from personalised advice on programme planning, opportunities for interdisciplinary study across faculties, and pathways into honours and postgraduate research. Otago’s emphasis on independent critical enquiry and taught research methods equips graduates with skills sought by employers and postgraduate programmes alike.