Arts

Education

Interested in learning and how it relates to culture, community, social media and social justice? We've all been to school and probably all have a view of the nature of education. The Bachelor of Arts in Education re-examines these views. Because this major is part of the Bachelor of Arts, it's easy to combine it with many other aspects of society and culture. Choose from 19 majors in areas as diverse as social sciences, psychology, international studies, Māori development, event management or languages. You can build your degree in a way that suits you — study either a single or a double major, select from a wide range of minors or perhaps add elective papers from another area of study. 

• Duration: 3 years full-time / equivalent part-time
• Start date: 18 July / 27 February  / 17 July 

Career opportunities

The study of education can prepare you for a range of careers. There is a direct pathway into teaching as you will qualify for the one-year Master of Teaching and Learning (Primary Teaching) which leads to teacher registration. If you have teaching subjects to a 200 and 300 level in your BA (Education is not a teaching subject), you can apply for the Graduate Diploma in Secondary Teaching.

The skills you develop in this major are valuable for a range of careers, including:

• Social development work
• Youth and community work
• Marketing
• Communications
• Human resources
• Advertising
• The arts
• Training and mentoring

Other education-related work in government and non-governmental organisations. It's also good preparation for further study, which could lead to teacher registration.

Graduates wishing to pursue postgraduate study will be able to move on to a Master of Education.

Structure and content

Each year you take core papers in writing, communication, research and digital technologies, along with your major(s) and/or minor papers. You usually complete two or three core papers in Year 1, plus papers for your major (usually two or three) and other papers of interest.

In your second year you complete the other one or two core papers, along with more major papers. In your final semester, you complete a real-life work project through our Co-operative Education paper. This is a core Year 3 paper that can only be done after the other core papers.

Education papers

EDUC503 Critical Questions in Education

EDUC504 Places and Learning

EDUC605 Learning, Diversity and Culture

EDUC606 Learning and Subjectivity in an Age of Social Media

EDUC607 Education, Resistance and Social Justice

EDUC710 Educational Futures

EDUC711 Philosophic Debates in Education

The Education papers in the major are organised into two strands — one has a sociological focus; the other a cultural focus.

Sociological focus:

EDUC503 (level 5) considers aspects of education in the past and how this explains issues in education today.

EDUC607 (level 6) focuses on concepts related to educational questions and issues of today, such as social justice.

EDUC710 (level 7) considers futures education and how the way we learn in and for a future world might be very different from today.

Cultural focus:

EDUC504 (level 5) considers how place affects who we are and what we learn. Of the two level 6 papers:

EDUC605 focuses on learning in culture and community whereas

EDUC606 takes a look at learning through social media. The level 7 paper in this strand,

EDUC710, assumes a more philosophical view and considers questions related to the 'big picture' of education. 

Degree requirements for the Bachelor of Arts (BA) at Auckland University of Technology include a combination of core courses, electives, and specific discipline studies. Students must complete a minimum of 360 points over the course of the programme, which typically takes three years of full-time study. The core curriculum emphasizes development of critical thinking, communication skills, and cultural awareness, with courses in areas such as academic writing, research methods, and ethics.

Students are required to choose one or more major disciplines from a variety of options, including Communication Studies, Criminology, Humanities, Languages, Music, and Visual Arts. Majors generally comprise 60 to 120 points, including foundational and advanced courses, and provide in-depth knowledge and practical skills relevant to the discipline. Electives allow students to explore other interests across academic fields, encouraging interdisciplinary learning and broadening career opportunities.

In addition to coursework, some programmes include practical components such as internships, community projects, or studio work, aiming to enhance employability and real-world experience. Language proficiency may be assessed, and students may be required to demonstrate competence in a second language, particularly if their chosen discipline involves intercultural communication or international contexts.

To graduate, students must meet all the course and credit requirements set forth by the university's regulations, including passing grades in required courses, maintaining a minimum GPA, and fulfilling any individual major prerequisites. Advisors and faculty support students in curriculum planning, ensuring they meet academic standards and align their studies with professional and personal goals. Overall, the Bachelor of Arts at AUT provides a flexible, comprehensive education designed to develop skills applicable across various sectors, including media, education, public service, and arts industries.

The Auckland University of Technology offers a range of funding options for students pursuing Arts programmes. Domestic students can access a variety of scholarships, grants, and government loans to support their studies. New Zealand citizens and permanent residents are eligible for Tuition Fee Allowances and Student Loans through StudyLink, which assist with tuition costs and living expenses during their academic journey. International students enrolled in Arts programmes at AUT are encouraged to explore scholarships specifically aimed at international students, which often cover tuition fees partially or in full for outstanding applicants. Additionally, AUT provides specific scholarships based on academic achievement, financial need, leadership qualities, or community involvement. These scholarships are competitively awarded and may require an application process with supporting documents. Beyond scholarships, students can consider part-time employment options either on campus or off-campus to financially support their studies. AUT’s career services often assist students in finding suitable part-time work opportunities aligned with their field of study. Some Arts programmes may also be eligible for industry grants or sponsorships, especially when linked with community projects or research initiatives. It is advisable for students to regularly check AUT’s official website and the government’s education funding portal for updated information on available financial aid packages, application deadlines, and eligibility criteria. Furthermore, AUT offers financial advice and planning services to help students manage their budgets effectively during their studies. International students should inquire about tuition fee exemptions, scholarships specific to their country of origin, and any additional costs such as health insurance or visa fees. Prospective students are encouraged to contact the AUT Student Financial Support office for personalized guidance and assistance in navigating the various funding options. Overall, AUT’s comprehensive approach to financing arts education aims to make higher education accessible and affordable for all students, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder academic and personal development.

Study abroad fees at AUT University: what you'll pay

2016 fees per semester in NZ dollars

• Tuition fee for Study Abroad: NZ$12,500 per semester
• Enrolment fee: NZ$150
• Learner services levy: NZ$320.08 per 60 points
• Placement fee (internship option only): NZ$800
• AUT Insurance Premium: NZ$294.50 per semester

Other compulsory fees (in addition to tuition fees)

• 2016 Compulsory Student Services Fee - $573.30 for 120 points or $4.77 per academic point (GST incl)
• 2016 Building Levy- $66.85 for 120 points or $0.56 per academic point (GST incl)