The Bachelor of Expressive Arts at Massey University offers a comprehensive and dynamic approach to exploring the arts as a means of personal and social expression. This innovative programme is designed for students who are passionate about creative practices and wish to develop their artistic skills across multiple disciplines such as drama, dance, visual arts, and music. Throughout the course, students will engage in a variety of practical and theoretical learning experiences that foster critical thinking, creativity, and cultural understanding. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on projects, collaborative work, and community engagement, allowing students to apply their artistic talents in real-world contexts. By integrating theory and practice, the programme aims to cultivate versatile artists and expressive practitioners who can contribute meaningfully to the arts sector, education, and community development. The degree also encourages students to critically analyze the social, cultural, and historical dimensions of the arts, preparing them for diverse careers or further academic study in expressive arts or related fields. With a strong focus on innovation and inclusivity, the Bachelor of Expressive Arts at Massey University provides a supportive environment for students to explore their creative identities and develop their professional portfolios. Graduates of the programme will be equipped with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to pursue careers such as performing artists, community arts workers, arts educators, or entrepreneurs in the creative industries. The programme is suitable for those with a passion for the arts and a desire to make a positive impact through creative expression, offering a well-rounded education that balances artistic practice with critical inquiry and cultural awareness.

Choose your courses for this major from the following list:

No more than 60 credits from:
139.209 Speaking: Theory and Practice
139.220 Applied Theatre: Theatre for Social Change 
139.223 Creative Processes
139.224 Making Plays for Theatre
139.225 Writing for Children
139.229 Writing Poetry
139.280 Writing Creative Non-Fiction
139.285 Fiction Writing
154.204 Digital Media Production I
154.224 Documentary (Non-fiction) Film

At least 60 credits from:
139.303 Modern Drama
139.320 Theatre in Production
139.323 Script Writing
139.326 Travel Writing
139.329 Advanced Fiction Writing
139.333 Creativity in the Community
139.340 The Publishing Project
139.374 Tragedy
139.381 Advanced Studies in Creative Writing
139.386 Life Writing
154.304 Digital Media Production II

Major requirements: A major consists of 120 credits in Expressive Arts, including at least 60 credits at 300-level.

Minor requirements: A minor consists of 60 credits in Expressive Arts, including at least 15 credits at 300-level.

Program requirements for the Bachelor of Expressive Arts at Massey University include successful completion of a minimum of 360 credits, with core courses focusing on contemporary practices in expressive arts, performance techniques, and creativity development. Students are expected to undertake both theoretical and practical components, gaining hands-on experience in various expressive arts disciplines such as dance, drama, music, and visual arts. The program requires students to complete foundational courses in arts theory and history to establish a solid understanding of the cultural and historical contexts of expressive arts. Additionally, students must participate in workshops, collaborative projects, and performance assessments to develop their technical skills and artistic voice. The curriculum emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, encouraging students to integrate different art forms to create innovative works. Entry into advanced courses often necessitates demonstrated proficiency through portfolio submissions or auditions, depending on the specialization. Students are also encouraged to engage in internships or community projects for real-world practice and professional development. A capstone project is usually a mandatory component, requiring students to produce a substantial body of work that showcases their artistic growth and research. Throughout the program, academic advisors provide guidance to ensure students meet progression requirements and personalize their educational pathway. The program also promotes critical reflection, encouraging students to analyze their own work and the impact of their art in society, preparing graduates for careers in arts performance, education, curation, or community arts initiatives.

The Massey University High Achiever scholarships were established to support new students enrolling at Massey University with a previous record of high achievement in the areas of: Academic, Arts, Sport. Thre are also other undergraduate scholarships available.

High achiever scholarships

Massey University Vice Chancellor's High Achiever Scholarship (Academic)

The Massey University Vice Chancellor's High Achiever Scholarship (Academic) was established to support new students enrolling at Massey University with a previous record of excellence in one or more subject areas and/or a record of merit in several subject areas.

Massey University Academy of Sport Scholarship

The Massey University Academy of Sport Scholarship was established to support new student athletes enrolling at Massey University with a previous record of high achievement in sport and who show future potential in their chosen sport.

Massey University Vice Chancellor's High Achiever Scholarship (Academic)

The Massey University Vice Chancellor's High Achiever Scholarship (Academic) was established to support new students enrolling at Massey University with a previous record of excellence in one or more subject areas and/or a record of merit in several subject areas.

Massey University Vice Chancellor's High Achiever Scholarship (Art)

The Massey University Vice Chancellor's High Achiever Scholarship (Arts) was established to support new students enrolling at Massey University with a previous record of excellence in one or more of the arts fields both inside and outside of the school context.

Massey University Academy of Sport Scholarship

The Massey University Academy of Sport Scholarship was established to support new student athletes enrolling at Massey University with a previous record of high achievement in sport and who show future potential in their chosen sport.

Massey University Albany Vice Chancellor's Natural Sciences Excellence Award

The Massey University Albany Vice Chancellor's Natural Sciences Excellence Award was established to support new students enrolling at the Albany campus, Massey University with a previous record of  academic excellence in the natural sciences. Recipients are expected to be committed to studying and completing the Bachelor of Natural Sciences degree.

Massey University Albany Vice-Chancellor’s Innovation and Academic Excellence Scholarship

The Massey University Albany Vice Chancellor's Innovation and Academic Excellence Scholarship was established to support new students enrolling fulltime at the Albany campus, Massey University who  are currently attending a North Shore or West Auckland secondary school who have a minimum of 20 NCEA L2 credits (or equivalent in CIE or IB) with a record of excellence or merit.

Massey Business School Future Leaders Scholarship

The Massey Business School Future Leaders Scholarship was established to recognise and support future leaders enrolling in full-time business programmes at Massey University who have a previous record of leadership and high academic achievement. 

Encouraging Kiwis into Engineering Massey University Full-Fees Scholarship

The Encouraging Kiwis into Engineering Massey University Full-Fees Scholarship was established to encourage more students into engineering, particularly those currently studying maths, physics, and/or chemistry. Applicants are expected to be studying NCEA Level 3 or equivalent in Mathematics with Calculus, Physics and perhaps also Chemistry; have involvement in extracurricular Science, Engineering or Technology and show leadership and creative skills.

The Bachelor of Expressive Arts at Massey University is a comprehensive programme designed to foster creativity, artistic expression, and communication skills across a range of disciplines. This undergraduate degree provides students with a solid foundation in various fields such as visual arts, theatre, dance, music, and digital media, allowing them to explore their interests and develop their own unique artistic voice. The programme emphasizes experiential learning, encouraging students to participate in practical projects, performances, and exhibitions that showcase their talents and ideas. Throughout the course, students gain theoretical knowledge about art history, contemporary practices, and cultural contexts, enabling them to critically analyze and interpret artistic works. The curriculum is structured to promote interdisciplinary collaboration, with opportunities for students to work across different art forms and technological platforms. Massey University’s state-of-the-art facilities, including studios, performance spaces, and digital labs, support innovative artistic practices. The programme also emphasizes the importance of community engagement and cultural awareness, preparing graduates for careers in the arts industry, including roles in performance, education, curation, arts management, and multimedia production. Students benefit from mentorship by experienced faculty members who are active practitioners in their fields, providing guidance and inspiring creative development. The degree aims to equip graduates with both practical skills and theoretical knowledge, fostering adaptability in a rapidly changing arts landscape. Upon completing the Bachelor of Expressive Arts, graduates are prepared for further study, professional arts careers, or entrepreneurial ventures in artistic fields. Massey University’s strong connections with local arts organizations and industry partners offer students valuable networking opportunities and real-world experiences. The programme’s flexible learning pathways also allow students to tailor their studies according to their artistic interests and career goals, making it a versatile choice for aspiring artists and performers.