Qualification Regulations
Part I
These regulations are to be read in conjunction with all other Statutes and Regulations of the University including General Regulations for Undergraduate Degrees, Undergraduate Diplomas, Undergraduate Certificates, Graduate Diplomas, and Graduate Certificates.
Part II
Admission
1. Admission to the Graduate Certificate in Arts requires that the candidate will:
(a) meet the University admission requirements as specified; and:
(b) have been awarded or qualified for a Bachelor's Degree, or equivalent.
Qualification requirements
2. Candidates for the Graduate Certificate in Arts shall follow a flexible programme of study, which shall consist of courses totalling at least 60 credits, comprising:
(a) at least 60 credits at the 200 or 300 level from the Schedule to the Certificate;
(b) at least 45 credits at 300 level.
Specialisations
3. The Graduate Certificate in Arts may be awarded with or without an endorsement.
4. Candidates may complete an endorsement by passing at least 45 credits in a subject area including:
(a) at least 30 credits at 300 level;
(b) any compulsory courses for the endorsement as listed in the Schedule.
The requirements for each endorsement are set out in the Schedule for the Qualification.
5. Endorsements available in the Graduate Certificate in Arts are: Chinese, Classical Studies, Creative Writing, Defence Studies, Development Studies, Economics, Education, Educational Psychology, English, Geography, History, Japanese, Linguistics, Māori Knowledge, Mathematics, Media Studies, Philosophy, Planning Studies, Politics and International Relations, Psychology, Security Studies, Social Anthropology, Social Policy, Sociology, Spanish, Statistics, and Theatre Studies.
Completion requirements
6. Any timeframes for completion as outlined in the General Regulations for Undergraduate Degrees, Undergraduate Diplomas, Undergraduate Certificates, Graduate Diplomas, and Graduate Certificates will apply.
7. Candidates may be graduated when they meet the Admission, Qualification and Academic requirements.
Unsatisfactory academic progress
8. The general Unsatisfactory Academic Progress regulations will apply.
Schedule for the Graduate Certificate in Arts
Course planning key
- Prerequisites
- Courses that need to be completed before moving onto a course at the next level. For example, a lot of 200-level courses have 100-level prerequisite courses.
- Corequisites
- Courses that must be completed at the same time as another course are known as corequisite courses.
- Restrictions
- Some courses are restricted against each other because their content is similar. This means you can only choose one of the offered courses to study and credit to your qualification.
Key terms for course planning
- Courses
- Each qualification has its own specific set of courses. Some universities call these papers. You enrol in courses after you get accepted into Massey.
- Course code
- Each course is numbered using 6 digits. The fourth number shows the level of the course. For example, in course 219206, the fourth number is a 2, so it is a 200-level course (usually studied in the second year of full-time study).
- Credits
- Each course is worth a number of credits. You combine courses (credits) to meet the total number of credits needed for your qualification.
- Specialisations
- Some qualifications let you choose what subject you'd like to specialise in. Your major or endorsement is what you will take the majority of your courses in.
Endorsements
Chinese (45 credits)
Subject courses
Course code: 241201 Chinese 2A credits 15
Provides students with intermediate level of proficiency in Putonghua (Mandarin), building on skills in reading, writing, listening and speaking. Intermediate level structures, vocabulary and characters are reinforced through oral and written exercises. Students acquire the tools appropriate to this level to discuss topics relevant to themselves and to Chinese culture and society.
View full course detailsCourse code: 241202 Chinese 2B credits 15
Aims to further develop intermediate level proficiency in Putonghua (Mandarin), building on skills in reading, writing, listening and speaking. Entails a further set of intermediate level structures, vocabulary and characters that are reinforced through oral and written exercises. Students discuss topics appropriate to this level and that are relevant to themselves and to Chinese culture and society.
View full course detailsCourse code: 241207 Chinese Diaspora credits 15
This course will examine the emergence and transformation of Chinese international migration in the global context of China’s interactions with the outside world and diaspora’s changing patterns of political, social and cultural adaptations in various regions in the world.
View full course detailsCourse code: 241208 Contemporary Chinese Society in Literature and Film credits 15
An integrated account of social and historical developments of contemporary China (from 1912 to the early 1990s) through a study of selected literary texts and films. No knowledge of Chinese is required.
View full course detailsCourse code: 241301 Chinese 3A credits 15
Provides students with pre-advanced level proficiency in Putonghua (Mandarin), building on skills in reading, writing, listening and speaking. Pre-advanced level structures, vocabulary and characters extend and refine linguistic capabilities through oral and written exercises, and students will acquire comprehension and communication skills to deal confidently and accurately with various situations.
View full course detailsCourse code: 241302 Chinese 3B credits 15
Provides students with advanced level proficiency in Putonghua (Mandarin), building on skills in reading, writing, listening and speaking. Advanced level structures, vocabulary and characters extend and refine linguistic capabilities through oral and written exercises, and students will acquire greater comprehension and communication skills to deal confidently and accurately with various situations.
View full course detailsCourse code: 241304 Contrastive Study of Chinese and English credits 15
A systematic study of Chinese grammar based on contrastive analysis as an approach to develop communicative skills through increased language awareness. Topics include basic concepts, sentence structure, special verbal constructions, tense and aspect, and complements.
View full course detailsCourse code: 241305 Translation from and into Chinese credits 15
An advanced introduction to the theory and practice of translation from and into Chinese, with an emphasis on the development and application of written translation skills.
View full course detailsCourse code: 241395 Individual Research Project in Chinese Studies credits 15
An advanced-level research project on an approved topic about Chinese language, literature, history, politics or other cultural aspect.
View full course detailsClassical Studies (45 credits)
Subject courses
Course code: 201201 The Pursuit of Happiness in the Classical World credits 15
This course explores views of happiness in the ancient Greek and Roman world from Homer to Marcus Aurelius.
View full course detailsCourse code: 201211 Love and Sexuality in Ancient Greece credits 15
This course offers a systematic study of ancient Greek attitudes and practices relating to love and sexuality as reflected in history, literature, art, and philosophy, and against the background of the family and society at large.
View full course detailsCourse code: 201216 The Trojan War credits 15
A comparative examination of the Trojan War in Greek and Roman literature.
View full course detailsCourse code: 201218 Greek and Roman Religion credits 15
A study of the religion of the Greeks and Romans, approached through both literary and archaeological sources. The course focuses on cult practices and their impacts on the societies of the time.
View full course detailsCourse code: 201219 Greek Art and Society credits 15
A survey of techniques, developments and achievements in Greek architecture, sculpture, wall- and vase-painting, set in their archaeological and social contexts. The period covered is from the Bronze Age through to Late Classical times.
View full course detailsCourse code: 201231 Leaders and Leadership in the Classical World credits 15
A study of leadership in the Classical world from the point of view of the leaders themselves and from those they led.
View full course detailsCourse code: 201313 Greek Tragedy, Then and Now credits 15
This course examines ancient Greek tragedy in translation. It looks at the transformation of myth into tragedy in the fifth century BCE and reflects on why these classical dramas remain popular today.
View full course detailsCourse code: 201314 Imperial Rome credits 15
A study of the first 200 years of Roman imperial rule, from the time of Augustus to the death of Marcus Aurelius.
View full course detailsCourse code: 201317 Ancient Multiculturalism: Egypt, Greece and Rome credits 15
The study of cultural exchange between the ancient Egyptian, Greek, Roman, and Jewish civilizations over the thousand years of classical antiquity, focusing on interactions in literature, art, religion, philosophy, economy, and politics.
View full course detailsCourse code: 201318 Greek and Roman Religion credits 15
A study of the religion of the Greeks and Romans, approached through both literary and archaeological sources. The course focuses on cult practices and their impacts on the societies of the time.
View full course detailsCourse code: 201320 Roman Art and Society credits 15
A detailed survey of techniques, developments and achievements in Hellenistic and Roman architecture, painting, mosaics and sculpture, set in their archaeological and social contexts. The period covered is from the Hellenistic Age through the Republic down to the Late Empire.
View full course detailsCreative Writing (45 credits)
Compulsory courses
Course code: 139280 Creative Writing II: Creative Nonfiction credits 15
An intermediate-level introduction to the craft of nonfiction writing in a variety of genres, with a particular focus on the application of techniques usually associated with fiction and poetry to nonfiction material.
View full course detailsCourse code: 139380 Creative Writing III: Starting Your Manuscript credits 15
An advanced study of the process of writing that consolidates knowledge of creative writing craft, expands understanding of genre, and analyses aesthetic and/or cultural aspects of published manuscripts across genres. The first portion of an envisioned full-length creative manuscript will be drafted with an emphasis on the critical evaluation of its aesthetic and/or cultural implications.
View full course detailsSubject courses
Course code: 139309 Eco-fictions and Non-fictions credits 15
A study of the relationships between creative writing and ecological concerns, covering a range of contemporary forms from eco-fictions, nonfictions, or poetry, to nature writing, to animal stories. It engages students in the workshopped production of original creative work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 139323 Script Writing credits 15
An in-depth study of the skills, formats, technique and terminology of professional script writing, with emphasis on the adaptation of traditional approaches across the diversity of contemporary media.
View full course detailsCourse code: 139326 Travel Writing credits 15
A study of travel writing, involving both critical and ideological analysis and creative writing developed from the students' own field work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 139329 Advanced Fiction Writing credits 15
An exploration of the poetics and politics of experimentation and subversion in contemporary fiction and metafiction including analysis of the work (both creative and critical) of major practitioners, theorists and original student compositions.
View full course detailsCourse code: 139333 Creativity in the Community credits 15
The course provides an applied service learning project in the disciplines of expressive arts and media studies. Working collaboratively, students apply skills in theatre, performance, film-making, creative writing, media practice or mixed media to developing a creative response to a social issue or community need.
View full course detailsCourse code: 139340 The Publishing Project credits 15
In this course, students study and experience the principles, processes and practice of publishing, through the co-production of an online publication. Key concepts include teamwork, co-production, theme selection, peer review, production scheduling, source selection, and online publishing.
View full course detailsCourse code: 139362 Oceanic Literatures of Aotearoa: Ngā Tuhinga Kōrero o te Moana nui a Kiwa credits 15
A study of contemporary Oceanic (Māori and Pasifika) literature in English contextualised in relation to customary and pre-colonial Oceanic literatures, narratives, and storytelling methods.
View full course detailsDefence Studies (45 credits)
Subject courses
Course code: 294215 Global Defence Challenges credits 15
An examination of emerging and re-emerging defence challenges within the global environment, in particular their impact on the character of contemporary warfare and the employment of military forces.
View full course detailsCourse code: 294245 Irregular Warfare credits 15
The theory and conduct of irregular warfare including in joint (interservice), combined (multinational) and interagency environments, and incorporating both historical and contemporary case studies.
View full course detailsCourse code: 294255 Conventional Warfare credits 15
An examination of the theory and conduct of contemporary conventional warfare by studying the combat and non-combat use of military forces within joint (inter-service), combined (multinational) and interagency environments.
View full course detailsCourse code: 200301 Contemporary International Conflict credits 15
An examination of contemporary international conflict drawing on case studies from around the world.
View full course detailsCourse code: 294301 Legacies of War credits 15
This course explores the legacies of war remaining after war and violent conflict ends, using case studies to examine the social, cultural and political responses to those legacies.
View full course detailsCourse code: 294304 Cyber and Information Security credits 15
This course examines the threats posed by Cyber Crime, Cyber Terrorism, Cyber Intelligence, Cyber Infrastructure and Cyber Warfare to individuals, organisations and government agencies. Studies include the origins of threats, the evolution of technologies, the role of the state in offensive and defensive applications, and ethical considerations.
View full course detailsCourse code: 294325 Contemporary Peace Operations credits 15
A critical examination of the theories, concepts, evolution, and contemporary practice of peacekeeping (including peace-making, peace support, and humanitarian interventions) with application to the regional and global environments.
View full course detailsCourse code: 294350 The History of Defence and Security Intelligence credits 15
A study of defence and security intelligence from ancient times through to today, with emphasis on the evolution of intelligence organisations and activities, the impact of technological advances, and the wider political, social and ethical issues surrounding its practice.
View full course detailsDevelopment Studies (45 credits)
Compulsory courses
Course code: 131221 Global Development Issues credits 15
This interdisciplinary course investigates contemporary global development. This course will explain different approaches to development and will explore a choice of topical themes that highlight problems and some of the strategies involved in addressing global concerns.
View full course detailsCourse code: 131321 Strategies for Sustainable Development credits 15
A consideration of concepts, processes, practices, and possible strategies for sustainable development at global, national and community levels. Special attention is paid to examples of strategies that seek more sustainable livelihoods.
View full course detailsSubject courses
Course code: 145311 Geographies of Globalisation credits 15
The course explores processes of globalisation emphasising spaces and agents of global change, and global-local connections across a variety of topics.
View full course detailsCourse code: 176308 Sociology of the Environment credits 15
An advanced examination of the interconnections between society and the environment with a particular emphasis on the roles of science and politics in the creation of environmental knowledge and practice.
View full course detailsCourse code: 178370 Development Economics credits 15
An examination of major development problems and issues, both domestic and international, from a combined economic theory, empirical and policy-oriented perspective.
View full course detailsCourse code: 179320 Community Development credits 15
An examination of the fundamental theories, principles and definitions of community development. Individual, group and community action is examined with emphasis on the relationship between individual and social change.
View full course detailsCourse code: 200301 Contemporary International Conflict credits 15
An examination of contemporary international conflict drawing on case studies from around the world.
View full course detailsEconomics (45 credits)
No new enrolments
This qualification is not accepting new enrolments.
Compulsory course selection
Course code: 178200 Macroeconomics credits 15
The development and application of macroeconomic models to globally-oriented economies, and the assessment of real-world policy problems from a practical perspective.
View full course detailsCourse code: 178201 Microeconomics credits 15
The development and application of models of consumer optimisation, producer behaviour, and competition in markets.
View full course detailsCourse code: 178300 Macroeconomic Policy and Applications credits 15
This course incorporates financial markets into macroeconomic models and analyses government policies that address current macroeconomic events.
View full course detailsCourse code: 178360 Sustainability, Environmental and Climate Change Economics credits 15
A survey of environmental and climate change issues and the application of economic analysis to these issues and policies to achieve sustainable outcomes.
View full course detailsCourse code: 178370 Development Economics credits 15
An examination of major development problems and issues, both domestic and international, from a combined economic theory, empirical and policy-oriented perspective.
View full course detailsSubject courses
Course code: 178221 Methods of Economic Analysis credits 15
An introduction to the techniques of quantitative economic analysis. The use of linear algebra and calculus in economics. Constrained optimisation. Simple dynamics.
View full course detailsCourse code: 178230 The Economics of Human Behaviour credits 15
An in-depth exploration of people's real-world decision-making processes with insights from psychology and other behavioural sciences.
View full course detailsCourse code: 178242 Land Economics credits 15
The treatment of land resource questions in economics, including changing theoretical approaches to land and the income from the land, factors influencing the behaviour of land markets, environmental economics and land use, specific models of land use patterns, the question of the efficient use of land resources, estimating changing land use requirements, taxation in relation to land markets, location decision.
View full course detailsCourse code: 178280 Regression and Predictive Analysis credits 15
An introduction to regression and predictive analysis, using real world data to provide actionable insights that aid organisational decision-making processes.
View full course detailsCourse code: 178301 Competition and Industry credits 15
The modelling of microeconomic decision-making of competing firms in industries, with application to real-world issues.
View full course detailsCourse code: 178312 Globalisation and Trade credits 15
An examination of selected economic concepts to the operation of global trade, agribusiness and financial markets.
View full course detailsCourse code: 178328 Project Evaluation credits 15
Theoretical and empirical aspects of economics (benefit-cost analysis) and financial project evaluation. Consumption/investment decisions; discounted cash-flow techniques; cost of capital financing; risk and uncertainty; and shadow pricing for economic policy. Emphasis is on practical applications, using microcomputers, to projects and investments in developed and developing countries.
View full course detailsEducation (45 credits)
Subject courses
Course code: 150201 Te Kawenata o Waitangi: The Treaty of Waitangi in New Zealand Society credits 15
A study of the Treaty of Waitangi background, texts, principles, and application to contemporary New Zealand. There is a particular focus on land, legislation, court decisions, social policies, the environment, constitutional matters, claims to the Waitangi Tribunal and Treaty settlements. Differing perspectives of hapū/iwi/Māori and the Crown, as well as opportunities for resolution, are explored.
View full course detailsCourse code: 249286 Equity and Diversity in Education credits 15
Explores critical issues related to equity and diversity in life-long and life-wide learning. Examines the role of education in the marginalisation and exclusion of learners, how these inequities are reproduced, and the principles and practices that promote equity.
View full course detailsCourse code: 254200 Learning in the Digital World credits 15
This course is an exploration of what it means to be a learner in digital social worlds.
View full course detailsCourse code: 254201 Philosophy of Education credits 15
This course explores the philosophical complexities of education in its personal, institutional and social dimensions. Students will be introduced to some of the major debates in philosophy of education and engage in the critical and continual practice of applying philosophy across the many contexts of education.
View full course detailsCourse code: 254203 Sociologically Imagining Education credits 15
This course explores the sociology of education by critically inquiring into the relationship between personal experience, education and society. Students will be introduced to primary sociological concepts like race, class and gender to critically reflect on education.
View full course detailsCourse code: 263200 Teaching as an Act of Influencing Others credits 15
An exploration of the ethics, principles, and key processes of everyday teaching and learning as a basic form of social interaction, giving students the opportunity to explore teaching and learning across the lifespan.
View full course detailsCourse code: 275203 Development in Childhood credits 15
An examination of physical, cognitive and psychosocial development during infancy and childhood in diverse contexts.
View full course detailsCourse code: 275208 Development in Adolescence credits 15
An examination of the physical, cognitive and psychosocial development during adolescence and emerging adulthood in diverse contexts.
View full course detailsCourse code: 254300 Historical Perspectives on Education credits 15
An exploration of the ways New Zealand’s current education institutions have been influenced by evolving philosophies of education, alongside key historical, sociological, ideological, political, and economic forces.
View full course detailsCourse code: 254304 Critical Theories of Education credits 15
Education as an everyday practice is the focus for critical theories of education. This course explores ways education has been theorized as a practice of liberation as well as a practice of oppression. Students will use these concepts to examine the role of education in shaping the social structure of Aotearoa New Zealand.
View full course detailsCourse code: 254337 Teaching and Learning with Pasifika Peoples in NZ credits 15
An examination of the educational experiences of Pasifika peoples in New Zealand in formal and informal settings both in the past and present with a focus on effective teaching and learning practices.
View full course detailsCourse code: 254340 Politics of Education credits 15
This course considers the politics of education in Aotearoa New Zealand, using current social issues and education policy reforms to examine role of education in a democracy.
View full course detailsCourse code: 263301 Learning and Motivation credits 15
A study of contemporary theory and research on motivation in educational contexts with emphasis on implications for learning and for educational practice.
View full course detailsCourse code: 263315 Teaching and Learning in Everyday Settings credits 15
A study of informal teaching and learning practices in a workplace, volunteer, leisure, cultural or community organisation setting. Focus is on the application of everyday teaching and learning theory in a real community context where access is self-negotiated by the student.
View full course detailsCourse code: 269332 Māori Issues in Education credits 15
A study of relationships between cultural values and education and of the extent of Māori educational needs and aspirations.
View full course detailsCourse code: 275304 Development of Gender credits 15
An in-depth study of gender development across the lifespan, including consideration of biological, sociological, and developmental perspectives of gender.
View full course detailsCourse code: 275320 Risk and Resilience across the Lifespan credits 15
An applied study of human development, examining risk, protective, and promotive factors which contribute to resilience and positive developmental outcomes across the lifespan.
View full course detailsCourse code: 276330 Mathematics and Literacy in Society credits 15
An exploration of the importance of being literate and numerate through an in-depth study of our engagement with mathematics and literacy in everyday life.
View full course detailsEducational Psychology (45 credits)
Compulsory courses
Course code: 256201 Educational Psychology credits 15
An examination of the contribution of psychology to an understanding of educational processes with a focus on the learner, learning processes and instruction. Issues of theory, research and application will be studied in a variety of educational situations.
View full course detailsCourse code: 256304 Positive Learning Environments credits 15
This course provides in depth exploration of the strategies and interventions for maintaining positive learning environments that support effective school engagement and achievement.
View full course detailsCourse code: 263301 Learning and Motivation credits 15
A study of contemporary theory and research on motivation in educational contexts with emphasis on implications for learning and for educational practice.
View full course detailsSubject courses
Course code: 175210 Ngā Tirohanga Rua o te Taha Hinengaro: Bicultural Perspectives in Psychology credits 15
This course engages with the concept of culture, and its relevance and importance in a bicultural country such as Aotearoa. The interplay between non-Western cultural perspectives and the dominant form of psychology situated within a predominantly Western scientific paradigm, is explored. Indigenous perspectives in general and Māori worldviews specifically, are examined within and juxtaposed to, the discipline of psychology.
View full course detailsCourse code: 263331 Assessment and Learning credits 15
Assessment concepts and procedures for learning and teaching, the construction and use of educational assessments, and contemporary issues in evaluation.
View full course detailsEnglish (45 credits)
Subject courses
Course code: 139202 Romantic Writing: Self and Nature credits 15
A study of the relationship between self and nature as explored in texts by British writers of the period 1780-1830.
View full course detailsCourse code: 139211 Shakespeare credits 15
A study of selected dramatic works by William Shakespeare, taking a thematic overview across a variety of dramatic genres and considering the plays in their original contexts as well as significant contemporary interpretations.
View full course detailsCourse code: 139232 Crime Story: Detection as a Narrative Genre credits 15
A study of the fundamental elements of crime stories and the social significance of crime as a narrative genre in relation to questions of social order, law and justice.
View full course detailsCourse code: 139239 Literary Landmarks: Words that Changed the World credits 15
An introduction to reading, thinking, and writing about literature from the past four centuries, with a focus on the way that literary texts reflect and engage with the historical, social, political and cultural contexts in which they were written.
View full course detailsCourse code: 139244 Writing for the Public credits 15
A course in writing non-fiction genres for the public, informed by a broad historical understanding of the emergence of the public sphere and its current reshaping in the digital age. Students apply rhetorical theory and theories of argument in their own writing and in analysing works by selected public intellectuals.
View full course detailsCourse code: 139253 American Literature credits 15
An introduction to American literature, focusing on key novels, short stories and poems from the Romantic period through to the postmodern, and their relation to their historical and cultural contexts.
View full course detailsCourse code: 139255 Critical Periods in Aotearoa New Zealand Literature credits 15
An introduction to New Zealand’s literary history, focusing on important novels, short stories and poems in relation to their social and political contexts.
View full course detailsCourse code: 139270 Young Adult Fiction credits 15
A study of young adult fiction and its reception. Focussing on classic and contemporary examples, the course explores the definition of the genre and its characteristic concerns, with a focus on case studies of popular and controversial texts.
View full course detailsCourse code: 139305 Twentieth Century Literature credits 15
A study of a variety of twentieth-century fiction and poetry. Emphasis will be given to aspects of literary modernism and postmodernism in order to contextualise the literary works.
View full course detailsCourse code: 139306 Writing Shakespeare’s England credits 15
An advanced exploration of the Early Modern poetry and drama of Shakespeare’s contemporaries, focusing on key themes, prominent genres, and the differing contexts of the royal court and the new world of the empowered citizen.
View full course detailsCourse code: 139307 Territory, Modernity, and Victorian Literature credits 15
An advanced introduction to Victorian literature, highlighting the engagement by nineteenth century writers with questions of liberalism, democratisation, and the expansion of the British empire.
View full course detailsCourse code: 139325 The Gothic Imagination credits 15
A study of the term 'Gothic' in literature and film, relating the enduring Gothic themes of fantasy, the unconscious and death to contemporary literary and social debates.
View full course detailsCourse code: 139340 The Publishing Project credits 15
In this course, students study and experience the principles, processes and practice of publishing, through the co-production of an online publication. Key concepts include teamwork, co-production, theme selection, peer review, production scheduling, source selection, and online publishing.
View full course detailsCourse code: 139352 Postcolonial Literature credits 15
A study of late-nineteenth and twentieth century novels in English, from diverse cultures, paying special attention to the ways in which these address the consequences of European colonisation. Recent postcolonial theory will provide a frame for textual analysis.
View full course detailsCourse code: 139362 Oceanic Literatures of Aotearoa: Ngā Tuhinga Kōrero o te Moana nui a Kiwa credits 15
A study of contemporary Oceanic (Māori and Pasifika) literature in English contextualised in relation to customary and pre-colonial Oceanic literatures, narratives, and storytelling methods.
View full course detailsCourse code: 139376 Sexual/Textual Politics credits 15
A study of patriarchal society and gender identity in selected literary texts.
View full course detailsEndorsement List A: Courses
Geography (45 credits)
Subject courses
Course code: 121313 Applied River Management credits 15
The course covers the principles and methodology of river resource management. It integrates ecology, hydrology, geomorphology and water quality to understand how river ecosystems function and how they may be managed to maximise societal and environmental benefit.
View full course detailsCourse code: 145300 Cartography and Data Visualisation credits 15
A course in geographic information systems (GIS) focusing on the use of digital geospatial information for cartographic presentation and data visualisation.
View full course detailsCourse code: 145311 Geographies of Globalisation credits 15
The course explores processes of globalisation emphasising spaces and agents of global change, and global-local connections across a variety of topics.
View full course detailsCourse code: 145318 Geopolitics credits 15
An advanced study of geopolitics, emphasising geographical processes across a variety of topics.
View full course detailsCourse code: 233312 Natural Hazards credits 15
An exploration and analysis of the nature, causes, impacts, and management of natural hazards, covering earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, landslides, weather, floods and coastal hazards. How climate change and human activity influence the hazards facing society.
View full course detailsCourse code: 145301 Research Practice in Human Geography credits 15
An introduction to theoretical approaches in human geography, research design and qualitative methodology and techniques. There is a compulsory fieldwork component.
View full course detailsCourse code: 121213 Land and Water Science credits 15
How river catchments work and how they are affected by human activity. The environmental effects of land and water management practices, including land use, irrigation, drainage and nutrient loss, on river channels, flows and water quality, framed within an understanding of catchment geomorphology and hydrological processes.
View full course detailsCourse code: 145202 Working With Geographic Data credits 15
An exploration of techniques for the collection, interpretation, analysis and representation of social and environmental geographic data using geographic information systems (GIS).
View full course detailsCourse code: 145203 Geographies of Inequality credits 15
This course will consider how economic and social inequality is reproduced across space.
View full course detailsCourse code: 145213 Resource Conservation and Sustainability credits 15
Various distinctly geographical approaches to resource conservation are discussed. Topics include: environmental change, human impact, renewable and non-renewable resource conservation, and the role of the state.
View full course detailsCourse code: 145214 Social Change and Environment credits 15
Exploration of the theme of social change and environment with reference to world systems and imperialism studied from a historical geography perspective and focusing on New Zealand.
View full course detailsCourse code: 145216 Urban Environments credits 15
An examination of aspects of the social, economic and political geographies of urban life, drawing upon various approaches in Human Geography.
View full course detailsCourse code: 233212 Earth Surface Processes credits 15
This course explores surface processes across Earth’s dynamic landscapes. Focusing on mountain, hillslope, river and coastal environments, the course investigates how and why these landscapes change over time. The course introduces methods for analysing and predicting landform change, and provides a foundation for managing geomorphic issues impacting society and the environment.
View full course detailsHistory (45 credits)
Subject courses
Course code: 148217 Victoria's World credits 15
A study of the economic, social and cultural history of Britain and its empire from about 1830 to World War I.
View full course detailsCourse code: 148218 The Vikings credits 15
A study of Viking contacts in Europe during the 8th-11th centuries, with a focus on the political, economic, social and religious contexts of the migrations to and settlements in the north-eastern Atlantic (France, England, Ireland, Scotland and Iceland).
View full course detailsCourse code: 148220 The Second World War credits 15
A survey of the Second World War which is both thematic and chronological.
View full course detailsCourse code: 148221 The Black Death and Other Plagues, 1300-1700 credits 15
A study of epidemic disease and its effects in medieval and early modern Europe.
View full course detailsCourse code: 148241 Revolution, Rights and the Atlantic World credits 15
This course explores issues of civic and political rights in the Revolutionary Era,1763-1848.
View full course detailsCourse code: 148242 The Age of Chivalry and Crusades credits 15
A study of the cultural, political, and religious dimensions of crusading and chivalry, and their impact on medieval Christian-Jewish-Muslim relations.
View full course detailsCourse code: 148243 The Sixties: Sex and Drugs and Rock and Roll? credits 15
This course assesses ‘myths and legends’ that surround the 1960s; most notably the ideas that the decade witnessed a fundamental shift in social and moral attitudes, witnessed a youth rebellion and ushered in a ‘permissive society’. The course will place the origin and legacy of these changes within the larger context of twentieth century history.
View full course detailsCourse code: 148244 The Great War 1914-1918: a Military and Social History credits 15
This course examines the social and military history of the First World War. It focuses on the tactics and technology used during the conflict and on the war's impact on society, culture, politics and economics.
View full course detailsCourse code: 148245 Māori and Colonisation credits 15
A study of Māori efforts to retain and enhance tino rangatiratanga and mana motuhake since colonisation.
View full course detailsCourse code: 148246 Iwi History credits 15
A study of iwi histories, their sources, role in maintaining tribal identity and well-being and use before the Waitangi Tribunal and in Treaty Settlements.
View full course detailsCourse code: 148248 Reformers, Radicals & Revolutionaries: Protest in New Zealand credits 15
This course explores protest in New Zealand from 1900 until the present. It examines the role of protest in challenging New Zealand's prevailing values, political elites and policies.
View full course detailsCourse code: 148308 New Zealand Military History: 1899 to 2001 credits 15
An investigation of New Zealand’s military history in the period 1899 to 2001. The various wars and conflicts are examined in detail as is their impact on New Zealand’s politics, society and culture.
View full course detailsCourse code: 148309 The New Zealand Wars credits 15
A study of the New Zealand Wars, focusing on the causes, campaigns, historiographical interpretations and consequences, including the investigations of the Waitangi Tribunal and Treaty Settlements.
View full course detailsCourse code: 148310 The Tudors and the Reformation credits 15
A study of religious, political and cultural issues related to the Tudor administrations and the Reformation of the English Church during the sixteenth century.
View full course detailsCourse code: 148316 New Zealand Between the Wars credits 15
A study of developments in the period between the two World Wars.
View full course detailsCourse code: 148333 The Napoleonic Wars credits 15
An analysis of the Napoleonic Wars, 1799-1815, and their impact on politics and society.
View full course detailsCourse code: 148334 Sports History credits 15
An analysis of the relationship between sport and society, commencing with the development of sport in Britain during the second half of the nineteenth century, with particular reference to sport and empire, women in sport and commercialism and nationalism in sport.
View full course detailsCourse code: 148339 Court Culture in Late Medieval Europe credits 15
The course examines the power, splendour and art of European courts in the Northern Renaissance, focusing on the most splendid of them all: the court of the dukes of Burgundy and its urban context.
View full course detailsJapanese (45 credits)
Subject courses
Course code: 242201 Japanese 2A credits 15
This course provides students with a pre-intermediate level of reading, writing, listening and speaking proficiency in Japanese building on skills established in prior study. Student will use a range of written and oral exercises to practise new grammatical structures, vocabulary and approximately 80 new kanji, and will acquire the tools to discuss topics of relevance to themselves and Japanese culture and society at an appropriate level.
View full course detailsCourse code: 242202 Japanese 2B credits 15
This course further develops students' reading, writing, listening and speaking proficiency in Japanese at pre-intermediate level, extending skills gained in 242.201 Japanese 2A. Student will continue to use a range of written and oral exercises to practise new grammatical structures, vocabulary and approximately 100 new kanji, and will improve their ability to discuss topics of relevance to themselves and Japanese culture and society at an appropriate level. The use of respect language (keigo) will also be introduced.
View full course detailsCourse code: 242205 Japanese Cinema credits 15
This course will introduce Japanese cinema in English translation as an art form that strongly reflects its culture. Traditional samurai films, contemporary social problem films and animations are used to explore how films address issues of modernity and national identity. No previous knowledge of Japanese language, history, or culture is required.
View full course detailsCourse code: 242301 Japanese 3A credits 15
This course provides students with a pre-advanced level of reading, writing, listening and speaking proficiency in Japanese building on skills established in prior study. Students will continue to extend and refine their ability in Japanese through using a range of exercises practising more advanced vocabulary and idioms, grammatical structures, respect language (keigo) and approximately 244 new kanji. Students will be expected to develop comprehension and communication skills to deal confidently and accurately with various situations.
View full course detailsCourse code: 242302 Japanese 3B credits 15
This course further extends students' Japanese proficiency in reading, writing, listening and speaking to advanced level, building on skills established in 242.301 Japanese 3A. Students will continue to further extend and refine their ability in Japanese through practising an increased range of vocabulary and idioms, grammatical structures, respect language (keigo) and approximately 208 new kanji. Students will be expected to develop their comprehension and communication skills for confident and accurate use in more varied situations.
View full course detailsCourse code: 242304 Reading and Writing about Current Japan credits 15
Selected issues of contemporary Japanese society will be studied through the medium of texts in the Japanese language. Further development of Japanese skills in reading and writing.
View full course detailsCourse code: 242305 Readings in Modern Japanese Literature credits 15
A study of selected extracts in the original Japanese from the work of major modern writers.
View full course detailsLinguistics (45 credits)
Subject courses
Course code: 172232 Language and Society in New Zealand credits 15
An introduction to sociolinguistics with particular reference to New Zealand: focussing on language and social interaction, regional and social variation in language use, bilingualism and the status of minority languages, and the sociolinguistics of te Reo Māori.
View full course detailsCourse code: 172233 Language Learning Processes credits 15
An introduction to approaches and theories in applied linguistics with particular focus on language learning processes.
View full course detailsCourse code: 172234 Phonetics credits 15
A study of the sounds of language and an introduction to the acoustic analysis of speech.
View full course detailsCourse code: 172235 Linguistic Analysis of the English Language credits 15
An introductory course in linguistic analysis of the English language covering the fundamental concepts of morphology, phonetics, phonology, and syntax.
View full course detailsCourse code: 172236 Forensic Linguistics credits 15
An introduction to the study of forensic linguistics, focussing on a variety of business and legal contexts and related ethical issues.
View full course detailsCourse code: 172237 Language, Discourse and Power credits 15
An introduction to critical discourse analysis, exploring how language is used in the reproduction of social inequalities.
View full course detailsCourse code: 172239 Language and Culture credits 15
An examination of the interrelationship between/of language and culture through a study of various elements of language, language use and language acquisition in a wide range of cultural contexts.
View full course detailsCourse code: 172330 Sounds and Structures credits 15
Introduces theoretical approaches to phonology and syntactic/grammatical structures and their interfaces.
View full course detailsCourse code: 172333 Discourse and Institutions credits 15
A critical examination of public and private-sphere discourses in institutional contexts through linguistic theories and methods.
View full course detailsCourse code: 172335 Language and Identity credits 15
An advanced sociolinguistic study of how language is used to represent and construct aspects of identity relevant to particular social interactions, including the individual’s ability to negotiate multiple forms of identity and belonging.
View full course detailsCourse code: 172336 Languages of the Pacific credits 15
An examination of the three major language subgroups spoken in the Pacific, focussing on their formal elements, the relationship between language and society, and the linguistic consequences of the encounter between Pacific peoples and speakers of non-Pacific languages.
View full course detailsCourse code: 172337 Historical and Comparative Linguistics credits 15
An advanced study of historical language change and language relationships. The course examines reasons for and types of language change, and methods for reconstructing earlier language forms.
View full course detailsCourse code: 172338 Language, Diversity and Mediated Communication credits 15
An examination of one-to-many communication in the Web and mediated contexts, focussing on globalised and transcultural communication of linguistic perspectives.
View full course detailsMāori Knowledge (60 credits)
Compulsory course
Course code: 150201 Te Kawenata o Waitangi: The Treaty of Waitangi in New Zealand Society credits 15
A study of the Treaty of Waitangi background, texts, principles, and application to contemporary New Zealand. There is a particular focus on land, legislation, court decisions, social policies, the environment, constitutional matters, claims to the Waitangi Tribunal and Treaty settlements. Differing perspectives of hapū/iwi/Māori and the Crown, as well as opportunities for resolution, are explored.
View full course detailsSubject courses
Course code: 150301 Te Mana Te Kawanatanga: Māori Policy and the State credits 15
Recent policies, legislation and judicial outcomes that impact on Māori people are examined as well as interaction between Māori and the State in formulating policies for Māori. A framework for analysis derived from Māori perspectives serves as a basis for understanding policy development and is applied to specific policy areas including Māori land, broadcasting, fishing, employment, health, the environment and Treaty settlements.
View full course detailsCourse code: 150302 Whānau ora: Principles of Flourishing Whānau credits 15
Approaches for the advancement of Māori health will be reviewed with a particular focus on health promotion, whānau ora and the link between Māori health initiatives and positive Māori development.
View full course detailsCourse code: 150303 Mana Wahine: Māori Women credits 15
A theory and research based examination of issues that concern Māori women in all contexts, including the roles that Māori women assume both within a Māori social framework and beyond. Theories of mana wahine and the ways mana is maintained, enhanced or lessened will be examined.
View full course detailsCourse code: 150304 Te Ao Hurihuri: Contemporary Māori Issues credits 15
A critical examination of contemporary Māori cultural, political and human rights issues through colonisation to present day renaissance of Māori and indigenous peoples.
View full course detailsCourse code: 269332 Māori Issues in Education credits 15
A study of relationships between cultural values and education and of the extent of Māori educational needs and aspirations.
View full course detailsMathematics (45 credits)
Course code: 160203 Multivariable Calculus credits 15
The techniques of 100-level calculus are applied and extended in the study of infinite series, vector-valued functions and functions of two or more variables. Topics include convergence of power series, partial derivatives, double and triple integrals with applications to surface area and volumes, line and surface integrals.
View full course detailsCourse code: 160204 Differential Equations I credits 15
An intermediate level course in the analytical and numerical study of ordinary differential equations, with an emphasis on their applications to the real world. Exact solution methods for ordinary differential equations. Systems of differential equations, matrix methods, phase plane techniques. Applications of differential equations. Numerical methods for differential equations.
View full course detailsCourse code: 160211 Linear Algebra credits 15
Vector spaces, linear transformation, matrix representation, inner product spaces, isometries, least squares, generalised inverse, eigen theory, quadratic forms, norms, numerical methods.
View full course detailsCourse code: 160212 Discrete Mathematics credits 15
Sets, logic, mathematical induction, functions and equivalence relations. Partial orderings, algebraic structures and morphisms. Error correcting codes and public key cryptography. Graph theory.
View full course detailsCourse code: 160301 Real and Complex Analysis credits 15
Real analysis: inequalities, the continuum property, induction, sequences, functions and limits, continuity, contraction mappings and fixed points, differentiation, mean value theorems and Taylor's theorem. Complex analysis: geometry in the complex plane, limits and continuity, holomorphic functions, line integrals, Cauchy's theorem and some elementary consequences, singularities and Laurent's theorem, the calculus of residues and some applications.
View full course detailsCourse code: 160302 Modern Algebra credits 15
Group theory - basic properties, permutation groups, finite Abelian groups, cosets, normal subgroups, homomorphism theorems, representation. Ring theory - integral domains and fields, ideals, homomorphism theorems, factorisation, extension fields.
View full course detailsCourse code: 160314 Combinatorics credits 15
Permutations and combinations, binomial coefficients, the inclusion-exclusion principle, generating functions, recurrence relations, Polya’s theorem, topics in graph theory.
View full course detailsCourse code: 160318 Differential Equations II credits 15
An advanced course in the analytical and numerical study of ordinary and partial differential equations, building on techniques developed in Differential Equations I. Ordinary differential equations: power series and Frobenius series solutions, special functions, Fourier series, Sturm-Liouville problems, qualitative analysis of nonlinear systems. Partial differential equations: classification of second-order equations, separation of variables, Fourier transforms, explicit and implicit numerical schemes.
View full course detailsMedia Studies (45 credits)
Subject courses
Course code: 154202 Advertising and Consumer Society credits 15
A study of the form and function of advertising in the context of consumer society, with particular emphasis on the conflict between advertising as a form of corporate manipulation and as a form of creative expression. Critical theories will be used to explore the role of advertising in relation to consumerism, capitalism, branding, art and agency.
View full course detailsCourse code: 154203 Popular Culture and the Media credits 15
A survey of cultural theories and debates in relation to modern mass media. A number of issues such as identity, representation and cultural politics will be considered in their historical contexts and in relation to a variety of texts from popular culture and the media.
View full course detailsCourse code: 154204 Digital Media Production I credits 15
An advanced introduction to producing digital media. This course uses hands-on, experiential learning to introduce techniques, concepts and processes for producing photography and video using industry standard hardware and software.
View full course detailsCourse code: 154208 Screen Media credits 15
An exploration of the formal and textual features of film and television, and their relation to technological change, with an emphasis on how film and television have both shaped and been transformed by digital media.
View full course detailsCourse code: 154224 Documentary (Non-Fiction) Film credits 15
A study of the genre of documentary (non-fiction) film. The course will provide students with a critical awareness of the theory, history and various forms relevant to the genre. Students will plan and produce short documentary films. NOTE: Students require access to their own video camera and editing facilities.
View full course detailsCourse code: 154250 Digital Media: Theory and Practice credits 15
An exploration of the social, cultural, economic and technological transformations brought about by contemporary digital and networked media. Students will develop critical digital media literacies and learn to produce digital media.
View full course detailsCourse code: 139323 Script Writing credits 15
An in-depth study of the skills, formats, technique and terminology of professional script writing, with emphasis on the adaptation of traditional approaches across the diversity of contemporary media.
View full course detailsCourse code: 154301 Culture, Power and the Media credits 15
An advanced study of theoretical approaches to the study of media and popular culture, with particular emphasis on how media are involved in the contestation, negotiation and maintenance of power relations.
View full course detailsCourse code: 154302 Gender and Race in the Media credits 15
A critical study of gender, race and ethnicity in the media, considered from a variety of theoretical approaches.
View full course detailsCourse code: 154303 Hollywood Cinema credits 15
An examination of how the formal, socio-cultural, and technological characteristics of Hollywood Cinema have intersected with its industrial conditions across history.
View full course detailsCourse code: 154304 Digital Media Production II credits 15
The further development of skills and abilities in a chosen media area with particular emphasis upon the production of a major media project.
View full course detailsCourse code: 154311 Social Media and Digital Cultures credits 15
This course explores how social media shapes identities, social relationships, work, politics and societies. From fake news to social media influencers, this course examines how digital technologies play a key role in shaping everyday life in the twenty-first century.
View full course detailsCourse code: 154313 Global Media Cultures credits 15
New media technologies and global patterns of media distribution have produced complex, emergent practices of transnational community formation, text-sharing and collaborative media production. This course examines these practices in relation to the maintenance and negotiation of cultural identity in the contemporary world.
View full course detailsPhilosophy (45 credits)
Subject courses
Course code: 134201 Philosophy of Mind, Consciousness and Cognition credits 15
An investigation of many philosophical questions concerning minds, consciousness and language.
View full course detailsCourse code: 134203 Ethics credits 15
This course examines the theories that underpin our ethical thinking, developing an understanding of the nature of ethical thinking in general, and the advantages and disadvantages of major ethical theories.
View full course detailsCourse code: 134204 Philosophy of Art and Music credits 15
An examination of topics in metaphysics, epistemology, logic, and ethics which arise in aesthetics and the philosophy of art.
View full course detailsCourse code: 134205 Logic credits 15
An introduction to modern formal logic using propositional logic and first-order predicate logic. Formal logic provides an important link between the humanities and maths and sciences, particularly computer and information sciences.
View full course detailsCourse code: 134207 Rights and Reconciliation credits 15
A study of themes from international political and social philosophy with a focus on the moral status of state boundaries and the moral status of war.
View full course detailsCourse code: 134213 Resistance, Rebellion and Revolution credits 15
A philosophical examination of when disagreement with, and opposition to, governmental authority is justified. Using the tools of political philosophy and assessing real-world cases, we discuss the nature, demands, and limits of various types of insubordinate political activity, including (but not limited to) conscientious objection, civil disobedience, secession, and revolution.
View full course detailsCourse code: 134214 Knowledge as a Social Phenomenon credits 15
A philosophical examination of the way our social environment influences how we can come to know about the world.
View full course detailsCourse code: 134216 Modern Philosophy credits 15
This course will investigate metaphysical and epistemological views of the 17th - 18th centuries, focussing on Descartes, Leibniz, Locke, Berkeley and Hume. It will pay particular attention to early modern notions of causation.
View full course detailsCourse code: 134218 Environmental Philosophy credits 15
This course uses philosophy to explore contemporary environmental issues, such as whether our concern for environmental well-being can be adequately grounded in a concern for human well-being, and responses to global conversations around sustainability and ‘the rights of nature'.
View full course detailsCourse code: 134220 Business and Professional Ethics credits 15
An examination of the practice of ethical reasoning with special concern for issues that arise in business and professions.
View full course detailsCourse code: 134221 Great Asian Thinkers credits 15
A detailed investigation and analysis of the major philosophical systems which have developed within East Asia since the first millennium Before Common Era.
View full course detailsCourse code: 134305 Advanced Ethics credits 15
The course will investigate issues to do with moral psychology, practical reason, moral language, and moral ontology.
View full course detailsCourse code: 134308 Philosophy of Science credits 15
An investigation of fact and theory, explanation and discovery, and of modern attempts to improve on naïve empiricist accounts of science.
View full course detailsCourse code: 134309 Ancient Philosophy credits 15
An examination of ancient philosophies, particularly those of Socrates, Plato and Aristotle.
View full course detailsCourse code: 134311 Global Justice credits 15
Exploring contemporary philosophical issues of justice as they arise within and between communities globally, including indigenous philosophies and communities.
View full course detailsCourse code: 134317 Philosophical Investigations credits 15
A consideration of some of the most influential philosophers from Kant to the present.
View full course detailsPlanning Studies (45 credits)
Compulsory course
Course code: 132221 Planning Studies credits 15
An introduction for non-planners to planning and practice in the New Zealand urban, rural and natural resource environment, including an introduction to the principles of the Resource Management Act 1991 and its administration.
View full course detailsSubject courses
Course code: 132304 Tūhono Taiao: Foundation of Māori Planning credits 15
This course introduces students to the Māori Planning world. Students will learn and apply Māori concepts, processes and practices, and critically explore the relationship between Māori and (post)colonial Planning to equip themselves to work effectively with Māori communities on Planning issues.
View full course detailsCourse code: 132305 Natural Resource Policy and Planning credits 15
An interdisciplinary approach to the cultural, philosophical, legal, institutional and practical issues involved in the strategic planning and management of New Zealand's natural heritage, including analysis of appropriate New Zealand and international case-studies.
View full course detailsCourse code: 132314 Transport and Urban Planning credits 15
People-centred approaches to transport and urban planning. A critical analysis of the determinants of urban planning and transport policies and procedures at national, regional and local levels in the context of sustainable urban development for hapori (communities).
View full course detailsSubject qualification elective courses
Course code: 132217 Planning Hazard-Resilient Communities credits 15
An introduction to the role of planning in building sustainable and disaster resilient communities through the use of various processes and tools to assess hazard vulnerability, reduce hazard risks, improve disaster readiness, develop effective response capabilities and facilitate recovery.
View full course detailsCourse code: 150201 Te Kawenata o Waitangi: The Treaty of Waitangi in New Zealand Society credits 15
A study of the Treaty of Waitangi background, texts, principles, and application to contemporary New Zealand. There is a particular focus on land, legislation, court decisions, social policies, the environment, constitutional matters, claims to the Waitangi Tribunal and Treaty settlements. Differing perspectives of hapū/iwi/Māori and the Crown, as well as opportunities for resolution, are explored.
View full course detailsPolitics and International Relations (45 credits)
Subject courses
Course code: 150201 Te Kawenata o Waitangi: The Treaty of Waitangi in New Zealand Society credits 15
A study of the Treaty of Waitangi background, texts, principles, and application to contemporary New Zealand. There is a particular focus on land, legislation, court decisions, social policies, the environment, constitutional matters, claims to the Waitangi Tribunal and Treaty settlements. Differing perspectives of hapū/iwi/Māori and the Crown, as well as opportunities for resolution, are explored.
View full course detailsCourse code: 200215 Foundations of Political Thought credits 15
A study of the history of political thought from antiquity to the nineteenth century.
View full course detailsCourse code: 200261 World Politics credits 15
An introduction to major theories, issues, events and institutions in contemporary world politics.
View full course detailsCourse code: 200262 Politics and Public Policy in Aotearoa New Zealand credits 15
A critical study of politics and public policy in Aotearoa New Zealand, with an emphasis on political institutions, the development of public policy, and the interplay between politics and economics in policy development.
View full course detailsCourse code: 145318 Geopolitics credits 15
An advanced study of geopolitics, emphasising geographical processes across a variety of topics.
View full course detailsCourse code: 200300 Peace Studies credits 15
A critical investigation of the ways that violence, conflict, and peacebuilding are understood within politics, and the resulting sub-discipline of peace studies.
View full course detailsCourse code: 200301 Contemporary International Conflict credits 15
An examination of contemporary international conflict drawing on case studies from around the world.
View full course detailsCourse code: 200303 Global Democratic Politics credits 15
This course will critically examine core issues and debates in contemporary democratic theory and practice in a global context, with a focus on diverse forms of and challenges to political participation in contemporary democracies.
View full course detailsCourse code: 200315 Contemporary Political Thought credits 15
A study of key developments and debates in contemporary political thought.
View full course detailsCourse code: 200361 Contemporary New Zealand Politics credits 15
A study of selected topics and themes in contemporary New Zealand politics and government, with particular reference to the period from 1984 to the present.
View full course detailsPsychology (45 credits)
Compulsory course
Course code: 175203 Introduction to Psychological Research credits 15
An introduction to methods commonly used in psychological research with particular emphasis on measurement, study designs, data analysis, and communicating research results.
View full course detailsSubject courses
Course code: 175301 Community Psychology credits 15
Community psychology focuses on people within the contexts of social settings and systems, that is, in ecological relationships with social and physical environments. Conceptual frameworks, the roles of research and practice, and specific intervention strategies developed and used by community psychologists will be among topics considered.
View full course detailsCourse code: 175302 Introduction to Clinical Psychology credits 15
This course provides an introduction to clinical psychology and mental distress, with an emphasis on current thinking and research in the field. The course examines: the core concepts in defining and classifying mental distress; some of the major psychological disorders across the lifespan; empirically supported approaches to explaining mental distress; and treatments aimed at supporting people towards recovery.
View full course detailsCourse code: 175303 The Practice of Psychological Research credits 15
Study of the practice of psychological research. Students undertake a range of exercises and class projects to develop practical research skills.
View full course detailsCourse code: 175304 The Psychology of Security credits 15
An exploration of how psychology can be utilised to improve our understanding of, and responses to, the various security challenges posed by the contemporary environment.
View full course detailsCourse code: 175306 Assessment of Individual Differences credits 15
Study of the basic concepts of psychological testing within the broad context of the assessment of individual and group differences. Examination of the rationale behind testing and its application to a wide range of assessment situations.
View full course detailsCourse code: 175309 Forensic Psychology credits 15
The focus of this course is to study the issues and controversies in contemporary relationships between psychology and law. The diversity of the field of forensic practice is reflected in the topics covered, and the themes of violence and justice are used to represent the multidisciplinary influences at the nexus of psychology and law within mental health and legal systems.
View full course detailsCourse code: 175311 Psychology of Women credits 15
A theory and research-based examination of the Psychology of Women as a sub-discipline with particular focus on how research in the field challenges gender biases and social assumptions. The history of the field is illustrated by classic and contemporary examples of research methodologies suitable for critical studies of sexuality, mothering and gender-based violence.
View full course detailsCourse code: 175313 Gender and Violence credits 15
A critical, research-based examination of the forms and prevalence of gendered violence, and an examination of selected legislation and intervention practices advocated for reducing and eliminating gendered violence in Aotearoa New Zealand.
View full course detailsCourse code: 175314 Advanced Indigenous Psychologies credits 15
The course provides advanced content of indigenous psychologies, including their specific application in the theory, research and practice of psychology across multiple domains (e.g., health, education, social, policy, etc) in Aotearoa New Zealand specifically, and more generally in other cultural contexts across the globe.
View full course detailsCourse code: 175316 Evolution, Culture and Mind credits 15
An evolutionary approach to viewing humans as a species socialized into meaning-making, focusing on biological, cultural, and evolutionary bases of human behaviour, and on applying different approaches to culture to understand the self, and the functioning of societies and culture.
View full course detailsCourse code: 175317 Health Psychology credits 15
This course consists of an introduction to and critique of general theories and models that have been used to understand, describe, predict and change behaviours related to health and illness and health promotion. It has a strong focus on the application of health psychology in the New Zealand context.
View full course detailsCourse code: 175318 Conducting Psychological Research credits 15
Students will develop and apply hands-on skills for conducting research in psychology. They will design and conduct research for a range of psychological studies and develop capabilities in the ethical application of both qualitative and quantitative research and science communication. The course is designed to prepare students for postgraduate level study and/or a career that requires research skills.
View full course detailsCourse code: 175343 Personnel Psychology and Career Development credits 15
Study of applied aspects of individual differences in organisations. Issues such as selection and training, performance evaluation, occupational health and vocational and career development will be studied.
View full course detailsCourse code: 175345 Organisational Psychology credits 15
An introduction to key concepts within organisational psychology, concentrating on the interplay between theoretical issues and practical concerns. Students will be enabled to critically evaluate the implications which different psychological perspectives have for understanding organisational problems.
View full course detailsSubject course qualification electives
Course code: 175201 Social Psychology credits 15
A survey of contemporary experimental social psychology. Against this backdrop critical perspectives are introduced with particular emphasis on the practice of discursive psychology in the New Zealand context.
View full course detailsCourse code: 175205 Brain and Behaviour credits 15
An introduction to basic biological processes underpinning behaviour and what happens when these processes are disrupted. Students will develop critical thinking and effective communication skills (both verbal and written) in relation to biological psychology.
View full course detailsCourse code: 175206 Memory and Cognition credits 15
The central goal of the course is to consider how knowledge is represented and processed in the brain. Students will be introduced to the mental processes involved in thinking and knowing, studied within a converging methods framework that includes evidence from experimental psychology, neuroscience, neuropsychology, and cognitive science.
View full course detailsCourse code: 175210 Ngā Tirohanga Rua o te Taha Hinengaro: Bicultural Perspectives in Psychology credits 15
This course engages with the concept of culture, and its relevance and importance in a bicultural country such as Aotearoa. The interplay between non-Western cultural perspectives and the dominant form of psychology situated within a predominantly Western scientific paradigm, is explored. Indigenous perspectives in general and Māori worldviews specifically, are examined within and juxtaposed to, the discipline of psychology.
View full course detailsSecurity Studies (45 credits)
Subject courses
Course code: 294201 States, Borders and Resource Security credits 15
This course examines the dynamics of states seeking to secure resources for their own requirements, alongside the need to sustain and protect global resources such as oceans and the poles.
View full course detailsCourse code: 294202 Human Security credits 15
This course explores the theory and practice of security from multiple perspectives including individual, community, social, economic and environmental.
View full course detailsCourse code: 294272 Intelligence in the Security Environment credits 15
This course provides a critical examination of intelligence focusing on the security environment. It looks at contemporary global and New Zealand-specific security risks, the intelligence cycle, and intelligence models that collect and analyse information to produce intelligence products that inform decision making.
View full course detailsCourse code: 294280 Security and Diplomacy credits 15
This course examines the nexus of security and diplomacy and the related theoretical and explanatory approaches with a particular emphasis on the Asia-Pacific region.
View full course detailsCourse code: 175304 The Psychology of Security credits 15
An exploration of how psychology can be utilised to improve our understanding of, and responses to, the various security challenges posed by the contemporary environment.
View full course detailsCourse code: 294304 Cyber and Information Security credits 15
This course examines the threats posed by Cyber Crime, Cyber Terrorism, Cyber Intelligence, Cyber Infrastructure and Cyber Warfare to individuals, organisations and government agencies. Studies include the origins of threats, the evolution of technologies, the role of the state in offensive and defensive applications, and ethical considerations.
View full course detailsCourse code: 294350 The History of Defence and Security Intelligence credits 15
A study of defence and security intelligence from ancient times through to today, with emphasis on the evolution of intelligence organisations and activities, the impact of technological advances, and the wider political, social and ethical issues surrounding its practice.
View full course detailsCourse code: 294381 Terrorism and Political Violence credits 15
This course critically explores the concept of `Terrorism’ and related forms of political conflict and violence. New Zealand’s understanding and responses to the phenomena labelled as `terrorism’ will be a key aspect of the course. The course will also address such substantive issues as the how non-state actors engaged in political conflict and violence fund their activities.
View full course detailsCourse code: 294382 Advanced Biosecurity credits 15
This course provides an advanced exploration of biosecurity from a social science perspective and exposes students to a range of contemporary biosecurity issues and their management.
View full course detailsSocial Anthropology (45 credits)
Compulsory courses
Course code: 146300 Anthropological Enquiry credits 15
A critical exploration of the role of theory in anthropology, key theoretical frameworks and the practice of theorising ethnography.
View full course detailsCourse code: 146301 Practicing Fieldwork credits 15
An experiential course including practical exercises, designed to provide students with knowledge and skills to conduct anthropological fieldwork in a local context using a range of ethnographic methods.
View full course detailsSubject courses
Course code: 146201 Making the Self credits 15
An exploration of how concepts of the self, person, and individual vary across cultures.
View full course detailsCourse code: 146202 Migration and Belonging credits 15
An anthropological study of how increasingly rapid mobility impacts socially and culturally on communities and individuals.
View full course detailsCourse code: 146203 Religion, Nature and Sustainability credits 15
An anthropological study of a range of religions, understandings of nature, and practices of sustainability.
View full course detailsCourse code: 146204 Following the Monsoon credits 15
An introduction to the contemporary anthropology of Monsoon Asia, with an emphasis on environmental factors
View full course detailsCourse code: 146205 Environmental Anthropology credits 15
An exploration of contemporary approaches in environmental anthropology.
View full course detailsCourse code: 146209 Food and Eating credits 15
This course explores the food chain, from production, through consumption, to exchange. It considers the ways in which food is implicated in the reproduction of identities and inequalities.
View full course detailsCourse code: 146210 Anthropology of Ritual, Religion, and Witchcraft credits 15
A cross-cultural study of selected topics in the anthropology of ritual and religion including rites of passage, witchcraft, sorcery, myth, magic, spirits, death, symbols, ancestors, altered states of consciousness, and shamanism.
View full course detailsCourse code: 146211 Systems of Healing credits 15
A study of the variety of ways that people throughout the world address the problems of illness.
View full course detailsCourse code: 146308 Taking Anthropology to the World credits 15
This course aims to workshop and assemble a professional portfolio applying anthropological knowledge and skills to respond to real world/topical issues, local and global.
View full course detailsCourse code: 146309 The Ethnography of Aotearoa New Zealand credits 15
This course critically explores the ethnography of Aotearoa New Zealand. It considers ethnography as a way of “knowing” Aotearoa New Zealand and what that means for how Aotearoa New Zealand is analysed and represented.
View full course detailsCourse code: 146310 Science, Culture, and Politics credits 15
Cross cultural understandings of how scientific ways of ‘knowing’ operate [politically] in the world.
View full course detailsSocial Policy (45 credits)
No new enrolments
This qualification is not accepting new enrolments.
Compulsory courses
Course code: 279201 Social Policy: Concepts and Theories credits 15
An exploration of the influence of different political theories and key concepts on the development of social policy in Aotearoa New Zealand. Applications to contemporary social policy case studies are included.
View full course detailsCourse code: 279301 Social Policy: Political Theories and Approaches credits 15
Exploring political theories and conceptual tools for analysing policy-making and the processes for engaging with the policy process in Aotearoa.
View full course detailsCourse code: 279302 Policy Research and Evaluation credits 15
An examination of the relationship between policy and research and the concepts, techniques and issues involved in policy and programme evaluation. The course includes practical experience in evaluation research.
View full course detailsSubject courses
Course code: 179202 An Introduction to Social Research for Social Work and Social Policy credits 15
An introduction to social research and an examination of application of evidence to inform social policy and social work practice.
View full course detailsCourse code: 179230 Tangata Moana Perspectives and Practices for Transformation credits 15
Examining Tangata Moana (Pacific/Pasifika) perspectives and how they inform social practice and policy towards transforming individual, family and community outcomes.
View full course detailsCourse code: 179320 Community Development credits 15
An examination of the fundamental theories, principles and definitions of community development. Individual, group and community action is examined with emphasis on the relationship between individual and social change.
View full course detailsCourse code: 179330 Māua ko Te Tiriti o Waitangi credits 15
An examination of self and cultural positioning within Te Tiriti o Waitangi. Students will be able to create meaning and make sense of their personal journey as Tangata Whenua or Tangata Tiriti, their social citizenship and active responsibility in advancing Māori aspirations in Aotearoa. Students will develop confidence in utilising Māori models of practice in whānau hui and social work practice from a te ao Māori perspective.
View full course detailsCourse code: 279203 Social Policy and Government credits 15
An exploration of government systems, policy and legislative making processes with relevance to social policy.
View full course detailsSociology (45 credits)
Subject courses
Course code: 176216 Globalisation in a digital world credits 15
This course examines the intersecting material, social, and digital complexities of late capitalism in the context of increasing conditions of globalisation and glocalisation. Using a variety of sociological optics, the course aims to assist students to develop critical understandings that will enable them to be constructive contributors to their future worlds.
View full course detailsCourse code: 176218 Race, Nation and Modernity credits 15
A review of the development of ideas of race and nation from the early modern era in Europe through to their world-wide crisis of the twentieth century including contemporary attempts to move beyond race via the concepts of ethnicity and indigeneity in Aotearoa New Zealand.
View full course detailsCourse code: 176223 Social Inequality and Justice credits 15
An examination of how social structures create inequalities with a focus on gender, class, and ethnic diversities and identities and how claims for social transformation are made.
View full course detailsCourse code: 176224 Gender: Bodies that Matter credits 15
An examination of how people experience gender, how gender inequality relates to other categories of social difference and how feminist approaches reveal and disrupt gender.
View full course detailsCourse code: 176302 Research Design and Practice credits 15
A practical course that introduces the principles of research design, quantitative and qualitative methods and research dissemination, and students undertake a small sociological research project under supervised conditions.
View full course detailsCourse code: 176308 Sociology of the Environment credits 15
An advanced examination of the interconnections between society and the environment with a particular emphasis on the roles of science and politics in the creation of environmental knowledge and practice.
View full course detailsCourse code: 176322 The World of Work: Contemporary Issues credits 15
This course provides an in-depth exploration of the changed nature of work in contemporary society. It examines the broader context of change, contemporary forms and patterns of work and occupations and issues and perspectives on global and local labour markets.
View full course detailsCourse code: 176324 Imagining Other Worlds credits 15
A study of contemporary utopian sociological approaches to social change, based upon models of economy, administrative governance, and social reproduction that differ from those of colonial capitalism.
View full course detailsCourse code: 176325 The Politics of Truth credits 15
An enquiry into the social contexts and power relationships that influence the production of knowledge, drawing on situations of current political significance. ‘Truth-claims’ are deconstructed in order to identify underlying ideological and political impulses.
View full course detailsSpanish (45 credits)
Subject courses
Course code: 245201 Intermediate Spanish Language I credits 15
Intermediate level written and oral comprehension and communication skills in Spanish, providing a broad linguistic base for the study of Spanish and Latin American culture, literature and civilisation.
View full course detailsCourse code: 245202 Intermediate Spanish Language II credits 15
An extension of intermediate skills in reading, free composition, listening comprehension and oral communication to illustrate aspects of contemporary Spanish and Latin American culture and society.
View full course detailsCourse code: 245203 The Sound of Spanish: Diction, Dialects and Diversity credits 15
An introduction to socio-linguistic aspects of the use of Spanish around the world, including dialectal variations and bilingualism, through a study of basic Spanish phonetics and phonology.
View full course detailsCourse code: 245204 Latin American Voices credits 15
An introduction to 20th century Latin American literature and its historical and political contexts through short literary works in Spanish.
View full course detailsCourse code: 245301 Advanced Spanish Language credits 15
Advanced level skills in reading, free composition, listening comprehension and oral communication in Spanish, illustrating aspects of contemporary Spanish and Latin American culture and society.
View full course detailsCourse code: 245302 Theory and Practice of Spanish Translation credits 15
An advanced introduction to the theory and practice of translation from and into Spanish and the role and responsibility of the translator.
View full course detailsCourse code: 245303 Latin American Rhythms and Politics: From Tango to Rock credits 15
Study of representative twentieth century Latin American music styles and their links to key social and political events that have shaped Latin American history. This course will be taught in Spanish.
View full course detailsCourse code: 245304 Travellers' Tales: the Invention of Latin America credits 15
An exploration of how Latin American people, landscapes and cultures have been defined through the writings of European, North American, Australasian and Latin American travellers. This course will be taught in Spanish.
View full course detailsCourse code: 245305 Spanish Conversation on Film credits 15
An advanced study of contemporary Latin American cinema within the context of current socio-political debates.
View full course detailsStatistics (45 credits)
Subject courses
Course code: 161250 Data Analysis credits 15
Biology, psychology, and other sciences require statistical methods for analysing and visualising data. This course is designed to be accessible to students from any discipline, first building a deeper understanding of fundamental statistical concepts, then teaching a range of practical approaches for exploring statistical relationships, testing hypotheses, evaluating models, and presenting conclusions.
View full course detailsCourse code: 161251 Regression Modelling credits 15
Common data analysis and regression techniques for application in science, business and social science. Topics include simple and multiple regression; linear models with categorical explanatory variables; model diagnostics; inference for linear models; polynomial regression; models for time dependence; methods for variable selection; non-linear and weighted regression.
View full course detailsCourse code: 161304 Statistical Modelling credits 15
This course covers the ideas underlying statistical modelling, its implementation through computational methods, and links to practical applications. Topics include probability and random variables, models for discrete and continuous data, model selection, model fitting and goodness of fit, model inference, and introduction to stochastic processes.
View full course detailsCourse code: 161323 Multivariate Analysis credits 15
This course teaches methods to understand patterns and structures inherent in data sets containing many variables. The fundamentals of data visualisation, clustering, and dimension reduction with examples taken from a range of applications.
View full course detailsCourse code: 161324 Data Mining credits 15
A practical approach to data mining with large volumes of complex data; prepare, cleanse and visualise data; supervised and unsupervised modelling; ensemble and bundling techniques; use of leading software tools.
View full course detailsCourse code: 161331 Biostatistics credits 15
Sciences such as biology and medicine yield data that require a wide range of statistical techniques, including standard linear models and their extensions. Case studies are used to demonstrate topics such as nonlinear regression, linear models for binary and count data, and mixed effects models. Emphasis is placed on application of appropriate statistical techniques through extensive use of statistical software.
View full course detailsTheatre Studies (45 credits)
No new enrolments
This qualification is not accepting new enrolments.
Subject courses
Course code: 139220 Theatre for Change credits 15
An applied introduction to the varied ways in which theatre is used for social and personal change.
View full course detailsCourse code: 139224 Making Plays for Theatre credits 15
Students will receive a grounding in the skills of writing experimental theatre and an opportunity to employ these skills in the creation of original scripts.
View full course detailsCourse code: 139303 Modern Drama credits 15
A study of innovative modern plays, by means of investigative workshops, theatrical performances, lecture/demonstrations and seminar presentations.
View full course detailsCourse code: 139320 Theatre in Production credits 15
This course studies theatre as an expressive art, with a focus on processes of adaptation, particularly the creation of new texts from old. It combines critical and practical research, including the presentation of a developed stage work, to examine how design, music and acting generate meaning in the performance of a text.
View full course detailsCourse code: 139323 Script Writing credits 15
An in-depth study of the skills, formats, technique and terminology of professional script writing, with emphasis on the adaptation of traditional approaches across the diversity of contemporary media.
View full course detailsCourse code: 139333 Creativity in the Community credits 15
The course provides an applied service learning project in the disciplines of expressive arts and media studies. Working collaboratively, students apply skills in theatre, performance, film-making, creative writing, media practice or mixed media to developing a creative response to a social issue or community need.
View full course detailsWithout Specialisation (60 credits)
Unendorsed schedule
Choose courses from the endorsement schedule. See the Graduate Certificate in Arts qualification schedule for course details.
Elective courses
Elective courses may be selected from any endorsement schedule and/or from the list below
Course code: 130301 Incident Command Systems credits 15
This course introduces the systems used to manage emergencies, including the New Zealand Coordinated Incident Management System and other international variations. Consideration will be given to operational management concepts and tactics for effective incident response.
View full course detailsCourse code: 147201 Issues in Rehabilitation credits 15
A study of major issues related to rehabilitation processes and practices. Students will examine rehabilitation in relation to personal, social and environmental factors and be introduced to terms, concepts and models related to disability, age, gender, culture, legal and political contexts, family and society, advocacy and inclusion.
View full course detailsCourse code: 147202 Mental Health Promotion credits 15
The course covers the rationale and principles of promoting mental health in Aotearoa New Zealand and globally. Attention is given to key concepts and frameworks underpinning this area of practice.
View full course detailsCourse code: 147302 Alcohol, Other Drugs and Addiction credits 15
A focus on alcohol, other drug use and addiction in Aotearoa New Zealand, emphasising harm reduction and health promotion as intervention tools. Students will develop a critical understanding of the aetiology and epidemiology of drug use and addiction, the co-existence of conditions with addictions, and effective legal, public policy and treatment responses to reducing harm.
View full course detailsCourse code: 175313 Gender and Violence credits 15
A critical, research-based examination of the forms and prevalence of gendered violence, and an examination of selected legislation and intervention practices advocated for reducing and eliminating gendered violence in Aotearoa New Zealand.
View full course detailsCourse code: 230210 Tū Rangaranga: Global Encounters credits 15
The course explores our connections, impacts, and roles in the world, and our rights and responsibilities as global citizens. It examines what citizenship means in 21st century Aotearoa/NZ, given its history, cultural diversity, and place in the global arena. The course introduces the notion of global citizenship, and explores the relationship between individual and collective action in addressing global problems.
View full course detailsCourse code: 230310 Tū Tira Mai: Practising Engagement credits 15
The questions of and possibilities for agency and action form the core of this course, through an enquiry-based exploration of the capacities of the humanities and social sciences for action, intervention and contribution in professional and community contexts. The course also covers the development and application of research skills, problem-solving skills, and ethical awareness in addressing practical issues.
View full course detailsCourse code: 243201 Intermediate French Language I credits 15
An intermediate-level review of written and spoken French, further developing skills in vocabulary, grammar, composition, comprehension, and oral communication.
View full course detailsCourse code: 243202 Intermediate French Language II credits 15
For students with intermediate level of French. An Autonomous level review of written and spoken French, further developing skills in vocabulary, grammar, composition, comprehension, and oral communication.
View full course detailsCourse code: 243301 Advanced French Language credits 15
For students with an autonomous level of oral and written French. An advanced-level course in French to further develop written and oral comprehension, expression and analysis, based on contemporary texts and recordings.
View full course detailsCourse code: 243304 Contemporary French Popular Culture credits 15
For students with Advanced level of French. Practical study of contemporary examples of French popular language and culture in a range of fields. An Advanced level review of written and spoken French, further developing skills in vocabulary, grammar, composition, comprehension and oral communication.
View full course detailsCourse code: 294382 Advanced Biosecurity credits 15
This course provides an advanced exploration of biosecurity from a social science perspective and exposes students to a range of contemporary biosecurity issues and their management.
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