Massey University

What you'll study

The BA at Massey gives you the freedom to choose from a wide range of subjects across arts, humanities and social sciences. You normally complete a mix of a chosen major (or majors), supportive minors or electives, and core skills papers in academic writing and research.

• Typical subject areas: English and creative writing, communication and media studies, history, sociology, political studies, anthropology, Māori studies and Pacific studies, languages, psychology introductions, philosophy, and environmental humanities.
• Core skills and methods: academic writing, critical thinking, qualitative and quantitative research methods, and a capstone or honours preparation paper in your final year.
• Structure: the programme is studied over three years full‑time (or part‑time equivalent). Early years focus on foundational theory and skills; later years emphasise specialist papers in your major, research methods, and a final‑year project or internship option where available.
• Learning modes: Massey offers on‑campus teaching across its campuses and strong distance and online delivery options, allowing flexibility for work and life commitments.

Entry requirements

Entry to the Bachelor of Arts is based on meeting New Zealand university entrance standards or equivalent international entry requirements. Typical criteria include secondary school completion with University Entrance (UE) or recognised overseas qualifications.

• Domestic applicants: University Entrance (NCEA Level 3 with required credits) or equivalent secondary qualification. Some majors may recommend or require particular background subjects (for example, languages or maths for specific papers).
• International applicants: equivalent secondary qualification from your country plus evidence of English language proficiency for non‑English medium schooling (for example, recognised tests such as IELTS or equivalent scores as specified by Massey).
• Alternative pathways: applicants with relevant work experience or prior tertiary study may be eligible for admission via recognition of prior learning or bridging programmes.

Career prospects

Graduates of the BA develop transferable skills valued by employers: written and verbal communication, critical analysis, research competence, cultural literacy and problem solving. These skills open a broad range of career pathways.

• Common graduate roles: communications, public relations, journalism, policy and government roles, community and social services, museum and heritage work, arts administration, and roles in NGOs.
• Creative and cultural industries: publishing, creative writing, media production, film and theatre support roles, and design‑adjacent positions when combined with relevant papers.
• Further study: many graduates progress to postgraduate qualifications such as honours, postgraduate diplomas, or professional study in areas like teaching, social work, law or specialised research degrees.

Why study at Massey University

Massey is known for its flexible delivery and strong support for distance learners as well as on‑campus students across multiple New Zealand locations. The university offers a wide variety of arts disciplines, active research in the humanities and social sciences, and strong engagement with Māori and Pacific perspectives across curricula.

• Flexibility: study full‑time, part‑time or by distance; combine majors and minors to tailor your degree.
• Practical experience: opportunities for internships, community projects and industry engagement depending on your chosen subjects.
• Support and development: academic skills programmes, writing support and careers services to help transition from study to employment or further study.