Auckland University of Technology

What you'll study

The Master of Arts combines advanced discipline-specific study with opportunities for independent research. Students typically choose a major or specialisation within areas such as media and communication, cultural studies, creative writing, heritage and museum studies, social policy, or other humanities and social sciences subjects. The programme can be completed through a mix of taught papers and a major research project or thesis, allowing you to focus either on coursework-led professional development or on a supervised research inquiry.

• Core and elective taught papers covering theory, research methods and contemporary debates in your discipline (e.g. qualitative and quantitative methods, critical theory, media practice, creative process).
• Advanced research training including research design, ethics, literature review and specialised methodologies relevant to your field.
• A substantial research project or thesis, or in some specialisms a practice-based portfolio project supported by a written exegesis.
• Cross-disciplinary options and seminars that foster collaboration across arts, media, design and social science fields.

Entry requirements

Academic: Applicants should have a recognised bachelor degree or equivalent with a strong academic record. Many applicants hold an honours degree, postgraduate diploma or significant relevant professional experience that demonstrates readiness for postgraduate study. Specific entry pathways and any prerequisite papers may vary by specialisation.

Research proposal and supervision: For research-focused pathways, you may need to submit a brief research proposal and demonstrate the availability of an appropriate supervisor in your chosen field.

Creative and professional disciplines: Applicants for creative practice pathways (for example, creative writing, media production or curatorship) are often required to provide a portfolio or examples of recent work and a statement of intent.

English language: International applicants must meet the university's English language standards. Evidence of proficiency is required in line with AUT's standard language policies.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Master of Arts move into a wide range of roles across the public, private and cultural sectors. Typical career pathways include:

• Research and policy roles in government agencies, NGOs and think tanks.
• Communications, media and public relations positions in corporate and non-profit organisations.
• Curatorial, collections and heritage roles in museums, galleries and cultural organisations.
• Creative professions such as publishing, writing, digital content creation and media production.
• Teaching and further academic study leading to doctoral research and academic careers.

Why study at Auckland University of Technology

AUT is a practice-oriented university located in New Zealand's largest city, offering strong links to industry, cultural institutions and community organisations. The Master of Arts benefits from interdisciplinary supervision, active research centres and opportunities for applied projects with external partners. Students gain practical research skills and professional networks, while benefiting from flexible study options and supervision from academics engaged in nationally and internationally relevant scholarship.