Auckland University of Technology

What you'll study

The Bachelor of Arts is structured to allow study across a range of disciplines while enabling depth through a chosen major and optional minors. Typical majors and subject areas include Communication Studies, Media Studies, English and Creative Writing, Global and Intercultural Studies, History, Political Science, Sociology, Criminology, Māori and Indigenous Studies, and a variety of language programmes.

• Core skills: academic writing, research methods, critical thinking, quantitative and qualitative analysis, and digital literacy.
• Major-specific papers: topic-focused modules such as media production and analysis, political theory and public policy, cultural history, sociological perspectives, contemporary Indigenous issues, and advanced language skills.
• Electives and minors: choose papers from across AUT to tailor your degree—common combinations include pairing Communication with Marketing, Languages with Global Studies, or Criminology with Sociology.
• Work-integrated learning: many programmes offer internships, industry projects, placements or community-engaged research to build practical experience and professional networks.
• Honours and postgraduate pathways: high-achieving students can progress to postgraduate study, including honours, postgraduate diplomas and master's degrees in specialist fields.

Entry requirements

Applicant entry typically requires meeting New Zealand University Entrance through NCEA Level 3 or an equivalent international secondary qualification. AUT assesses applications holistically; selection may consider academic results, relevant experience and the match between prior study and the chosen major.

• Academic: successful completion of recognised secondary school qualifications or equivalent tertiary study;
• English language: demonstrated proficiency in English is required for applicants whose prior education was not in English—standard tests such as IELTS, TOEFL or equivalent are accepted with scores that meet AUT's general undergraduate requirement;
• Alternative pathways: mature applicants or those with relevant work or community experience may be eligible through special admission routes or bridging programmes.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts go into a wide range of professional roles where strong communication, analysis and research abilities are valued. Typical career paths include journalism and media production, public relations and communications, marketing and content creation, policy and public service, community and non-governmental organisations, cultural and heritage institutions, and education support roles.

• Media researcher, reporter or producer
• Communications or public relations officer
• Policy analyst, researcher or government adviser
• Cultural programme coordinator, museum or heritage officer
• Community development or NGO project officer
• Further study into honours, master’s programmes or professional qualifications such as teaching or law

Why study at Auckland University of Technology

AUT is known for an applied, industry-connected approach that emphasises hands-on learning and contemporary facilities located in the heart of Auckland. The university maintains strong links with media, business, cultural and public-sector organisations, providing opportunities for placements, collaborative projects and professional mentorship.

• Practical focus: curricula designed with industry input and a strong emphasis on work-integrated learning.
• Central location: campus close to media, creative and government organisations in New Zealand’s largest city.
• Support services: academic support, Māori and Pasifika student services, career advice and language learning resources.
• Flexible study: options to combine majors and minors or study part-time, accommodating different career goals and life circumstances.