Course details

Bachelor of Broadcasting Communications (Journalism)
NZQF Level 7

About the course

Our Bachelor of Broadcasting Communications degree specialising in journalism is a highly practical programme providing you with the skills and theory to break news stories and be actively involved with the production of news for radio, television or online media. Early in your studies you'll gain a strong grounding in broadcasting and communications theory, writing and researching news bulletins for our radio station. You'll also report TV news stories for broadcast and online. In close collaboration with our media partners, our programme has been designed to produce graduates who will meet the needs of the industry. Our 24-week industry internship gives you more real-world experience, builds your industry contacts and gives you a real edge when it comes to securing your first job.

Entry requirements

What if English is not my first Language? Overall IELTS 6.0 Academic 5.5 Listening 5.5 Reading 5.5 Writing 5.5 Speaking If English is not your first language, we want to make sure that you will be successful in your chosen programme of study. Please provide a result from a test or qualification on the acceptable alternatives English Proficiency Outcomes Chart. If you are a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent Resident, complete an Admission and Enrolment form and Ara will contact you regarding a free assessment. If you are not a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent resident, book an IELTS or other test through the Ara Examination Centre or in your home country. IELTS scores used must be taken from a single IELTS Test Report Form and are valid for two years from the date of the test. What if I have achieved NCEA Level 3 University Entrance? You do not need to provide additional evidence of English Language skills. Still want to study but don't meet the Academic Requirements? If you show that you have equivalent skills for tertiary study gained through study, work and/or life experience, you may be able to gain alternative entry. Note: The number of courses you have to complete for this qualification may be reduced where you have relevant credits from previous study, or evidence of similar learning or experience in the workplace. Applicants who meet the requirements for admission are accepted in the order their applications are received. In the event that there are more applications than spaces available on the programme, a waitlist will be maintained. New Zealand University Entrance - NCEA Level 3 (60 credits at Level 3 and 20 credits at Level 2 or higher) which must include 14 credits at Level 3 in each of 3 subjects from the list of approved subjects* 14 literacy credits at Level 3 for any subject(s). and Numeracy* - 10 credits at Level 1 or above (specified achievement standards, or unit standards 26623, 26626, 26627) OR Certificate in University Preparation (CUP) Due to Covid-19 disruption, if you studied and achieved NCEA Level 3 during 2020, you only need 12 credits per Level 3 subject (i.e. total of 36 credits). Literacy and Numeracy requirements remain the same If you have undertaken examinations other than NCEA (e.g. International Baccalaureate, Cambridge Examination), Ara will assess your qualification for academic entry equivalency. * NZQA approved subjects: see http://www.nzqa.govt.nz/qualifications-standards/awards/university-entrance/

About the provider

Ara Institute of Canterbury is recognised as one of New Zealand’s leading tertiary institutes. Specialising in applied, vocational and professional training, it offers more than 150 courses from foundation to postgraduate level. 

Ara caters to a diverse range of learners; from school leavers and career changers to professionals wanting to upskill and individuals seeking to re-enter the workforce.

All Ara students benefit from the Ara Advantage: relevant courses, taught by inspirational mentors in real-life learning environments. Almost every Ara programme includes work-integrated learning. Work placements, apprenticeships, industry-based projects and internships ensure students are work-ready when they graduate.

Across its six campuses, Ara’s dedicated tutors and non-academic staff support students throughout their study journey. A comprehensive range of student services - such as financial assistance, learning support, health and wellbeing services, accommodation, childcare and student events – contributes to the success of every student.

It also has six additional small community hubs which deliver free digital upskilling and personal development courses.

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