Course details

Summary

Graduate in high demand

The Graduate Diploma in Arts (Defence Studies) will give you the equivalent of an undergraduate major in defence studies without completing a second bachelor’s degree.

WHAT IS IT LIKE?

The Graduate Diploma in Arts (Defence Studies) is a bridging tool for graduates in other subjects to get the equivalent of a major in defence studies. You can then apply for a postgraduate qualification in defence studies if you wish.

Get a powerful combination of skills

The Graduate Diploma in Arts (Defence Studies) is a unique programme that combines the study of modern defence studies and military history with broad and transferable critical-thinking skills.

Unique in New Zealand

Examining the contemporary world of modern defence - including its impact on media, technology and conflict resolution at local and global levels - is the core of this diploma. Massey is the only university in New Zealand where you can study defence studies and military history at undergraduate level.

Learn from the best

You’ll be taught by staff with academic knowledge of defence studies and/or military, defence and security experience. The programme is designed in collaboration with an advisory board of New Zealand’s top defence and security officials.

Our programme partners are government agencies that contribute to national, regional and global security, as well as peace and humanitarian aid initiatives.

Careers

With a Graduate Diploma in Arts (Defence Studies) you’ll graduate in high demand.

There’s an increasing need for defence professionals, both military and civilian. Employers are looking for people with the intelligence, initiative and determination to work in a wide range of complex defence environments. These roles are integral to the safety of New Zealand, and the demand for qualified people who can fill these is exceptionally strong.

Our graduates are employed in a broad range of areas such as border control, law, policing, management, defence, immigration, intelligence, foreign affairs and trade, business, and international relations.

Defence studies is a great choice for a career in:

• Civil defence and disaster relief
• Diplomacy and conflict resolution
• Peacekeeping and truce monitoring
• Policy analysis
• Education
• Journalism and the media
• Management and planning
• Politics

Requirements
Pass at least 90 credits in Defence Studies

• With at least 60 credits at 300-level

The remaining 30 credits (two courses) for the Graduate Diploma in Arts:

• must come from the Bachelor of Arts degree schedule
• at least 15 credits must be a 300-level course
• may include further Defence Studies courses

Entry criteria

Admission to a Graduate Diploma requires successful completion of a three year diploma or undergraduate degree from a recognised tertiary institution.

English language requirements:

• IELTS score of 6.0 (no band less than 5.5)
• TOEFL iBT score of 80 overall (min 19 in Writing)
• PTE Academic score of 50 Overall (min 42 in communicative skills)
• Cambridge English score of 170