Massey University

What you'll study

The Graduate Diploma in Arts offers a tailored programme of advanced coursework across humanities and social sciences. Students build a programme from a range of topics including contemporary history, cultural and media studies, English and creative writing, Māori and Pacific studies, philosophy, sociology, politics and international relations, linguistics, and heritage and museum studies. Common components include theoretical frameworks, research methods in the social sciences and humanities, and discipline-specific seminars or project work.

Study is arranged at a postgraduate level with an emphasis on critical reading, independent research and advanced communication skills. Depending on prior study and interests, your programme can be predominantly coursework-based or include a supervised research project or practicum in an applied setting.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally required to hold a recognised undergraduate degree in a relevant subject or have equivalent tertiary-level study and experience. Massey looks for evidence of academic ability in the chosen discipline area; this may include samples of written work, a curriculum vitae and a statement of purpose outlining the applicant’s study goals. In some cases, relevant professional experience or prior study at a higher-level may be considered as part of the admission decision.

International applicants need to meet Massey’s English language requirements. Specific prior-subject prerequisites can apply for some specialisations; check with the university’s programme advisers if your undergraduate major was in a different field.

Career prospects

• Public service and policy roles that value analytical writing, research and critical thinking.
• Education and tertiary teaching support roles, including pathway to teacher training or postgraduate research degrees.
• Media, communications and publishing positions where strong writing and cultural literacy are important.
• Museums, galleries and heritage sector roles in curation, interpretation and community engagement.
• Non‑government and community organisations, charities and iwi organisations using research and policy capability.
• A pathway into Master’s-level study or research in a specialised area of the arts and humanities.

Why study at Massey University

Massey is known for flexible delivery that supports on‑campus and distance learners, allowing students to combine study with work or family commitments. The university offers a broad range of arts and social science expertise, including strong teaching and research in Māori and Pacific studies and applied humanities fields, and access to supervisors and staff with active research profiles.

Students benefit from interdisciplinary options, opportunities for industry‑aligned projects or practicums, and academic support services tailored for postgraduate learners. Massey’s campus and online learning environments allow students to study from different locations while connecting with a national network of peers and professional contacts.