Program Overview

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Postgraduate Diploma in Arts – PGDipArts

The Postgraduate Diploma in Arts offers a pathway for advanced studies in a subject area of your choice. This qualification is designed to provide students with advanced knowledge in a specific field, enhancing their communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.

Why Arts and Humanities?

Studying arts is transformative, and employers, industries, and the labor market of the future need people who can thrive in an ever-changing global marketplace. By advancing your study at the postgraduate level, you will learn to effectively challenge and critique new ideas, preparing you to take on opportunities and thrive as a leader in your field.

Shape Future Innovation

The arts and humanities subjects are your passport to all the world's wonderful places. Studying at a higher level will open doors to new cultures, communities, and opportunities, driving your ability to champion creative and innovative solutions for complex global issues.

Further Study

Upon completing your diploma, you may have the opportunity to study for a master's degree, such as a Master of Arts.

A PGDipArts is a Good Fit if You:

• would like to extend your undergraduate major
• are interested in advanced studies or research in the arts or humanities
• want a point of difference

Entry Requirements

To enter the Postgraduate Diploma in Arts, you must have been awarded or qualified for the Bachelor of Arts degree, with a major in the intended postgraduate subject, or equivalent. You will need to have achieved a grade average in your bachelor degree that demonstrates an adequate level of preparation for the postgraduate qualification, normally a B- grade average or above.

Specific Requirements

• To enter the Postgraduate Diploma in Arts (Psychology), you will have been awarded or qualified for the Bachelor of Arts degree with a Psychology major, with at least a B- grade average in the 300-level Psychology courses, or equivalent.
• You will need to provide verified copies of all academic transcripts for studies taken at all universities other than Massey University.

English Language Requirements

To study this qualification, you must meet Massey University's English language standards.

Prior Learning, Credit, and Exemptions

For information on prior learning, exemptions, and transfer of credit or other questions, review the Recognition of Prior Learning regulations or contact the university.

English Language Skills

If you need help with your English language skills before starting university, see the English for Academic Purposes (EAP) courses.

Maximum Time Limits for Completion

There are maximum time limits to complete postgraduate qualifications. If you do not complete within the maximum time, you may be required to re-apply for the qualification if you wish to continue your studies.

Time Limits for Honours, Distinction, and Merit

Where your qualification is completed within the stated time limit and to a high standard, you may be able to graduate with a class of Honours, Distinction, or Merit.

Structure of the Postgraduate Diploma in Arts

The Postgraduate Diploma in Arts requires 120 credits. If you study full-time, you will take 120 credits per year or 60 credits per semester.

Courses and Specialisations

• Each qualification has its own specific set of courses.
• Some universities call these papers. You enroll in courses after you get accepted into Massey.
• Each course is numbered using 6 digits. The fourth number shows the level of the course.
• Each course is worth a number of credits. You combine courses (credits) to meet the total number of credits needed for your qualification.

Endorsements

Completing an endorsement is compulsory. An endorsement requires 120 credits. Available endorsements include:

• Defence and Security Studies
• Economics
• Education
• English
• Geography
• Geospatial Science
• History
• Media Studies
• Philosophy
• Psychology
• Social Anthropology
• Sociology

Fees and Scholarships

2026 Tuition Fees

• Domestic students: $10,652 – $11,645
• International students: $38,840 – $50,190

Tuition fees are estimates only. The exact fees charged will depend on which courses you select at the time of enrollment.

Course Fees

You can view fees for the courses that make up your qualification on the course details pages.

Student Loans (StudyLink) and Fees Free Scheme

You may be eligible for a student loan to help towards paying your fees. The New Zealand Government offers fees-free tertiary study for eligible domestic students.

Scholarship and Award Opportunities

• Massey University Postgraduate Scholarship
• William Broughton Bursary in New Zealand Literary Studies

Careers and Job Opportunities

As an arts graduate with a postgraduate qualification, you can expect to contribute positively to a wide range of fields, including:

• Civil services and the defense force
• Communications, public relations, and marketing
• Education and professional development
• Health, social services, and community development
• International business and development
• Policy development and analysis
• Public service
• Business
• Research and teaching

The Postgraduate Diploma in Arts is designed to provide students with advanced knowledge and skills, preparing them for a variety of career paths and further study opportunities. With its flexible structure and range of endorsements, this qualification offers a unique opportunity for students to tailor their studies to their interests and career goals.