Course details

Postgraduate Diploma in Arts Subjects (PGDipArts)

About the course

The Postgraduate Diploma in Arts Subjects (PGDipArts) requires two semesters of full-time, or its equivalent in part-time, study. It entails a structured programme of postgraduate coursework and, in some instances, a piece of supervised research that counts for one or two of the required papers. The normal admission requirement is a completed Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in the major subject(s) of the proposed programme.

The Diploma can be awarded in any of the subjects listed below, although a candidate may be permitted to study combinations of these. The primary aim of the study programme is to expose a candidate to advanced knowledge and skills in the major subject of the Bachelor's degree.

Graduates are employed in administration, business, education, government, industry and journalism where their advanced knowledge of an academic area, ability to solve problems, research and writing skills are valued. It is also a recognised qualification for admission as a candidate for the Master of Arts (Thesis) (MA(Thesis)) and, if a dissertation is included, the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).

PGDipArts Schedule

Subjects for the Diploma

SubjectNotes

Anthropology

Chinese

Applications for the PGDipArts in Chinese are no longer being accepted.

Classics (including Classical Studies, Greek and Latin)

Communication Studies

Computer Science

Economics

Prerequsites: ECON 375 and ECON 377

Education

English

Film and Media Studies

Gender Studies

Geography

German

Applications for the PGDipArts in German are no longer being accepted.

History

Indigenous Studies

Information Science

Programme of study: as for PGDipCom

Japanese

Applications for the PGDipArts in Japanese are no longer being accepted.

Linguistics

Māori Studies

Mathematics

Programme of study: As for the PGDipSc

Music

Philosophy

Prerequisites: One of PHIL 105 or PHIL 222 or equivalent

Philosophy, Politics and Economics

Politics

Psychology

Programme of study: As for the PGDipSci

Religious Studies

Sociology

Spanish

Applications for the PGDipArts in Spanish are no longer being accepted.

Statistics

Programme of study: as for the PGDipSci

Theatre Studies

About the provider

The University of Otago, New Zealand’s first university, was founded in 1869 and offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes with a strong emphasis on research and academic excellence. Ranked in the top 1% of universities globally and 2nd in New Zealand, it is also 214th worldwide according to QS rankings. Recognised as the top university in New Zealand for student academic performance by the Tertiary Education Commission, 96% of its graduates either enter the workforce or pursue further study shortly after graduation. 

Located in Dunedin, a vibrant student city where students make up 20% of the population, the University benefits from a unique atmosphere. Dunedin, on the south-eastern coast of New Zealand’s South Island, is known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, featuring Victorian and Edwardian architecture, picturesque hills, and wildlife reserves. 

The University’s campus is ranked the 5th most beautiful in the world by THE Student Voice, enhancing the educational experience. The Otago region offers diverse scenery and is close to popular destinations such as Queenstown. New Zealand is rated the 1st most beautiful country by Rough Guides 2024, is renowned for its natural beauty, Māori heritage, and multicultural society, providing a friendly, inclusive environment for students and residents. 

Video