Indigenous Studies

The Bachelor of Indigenous Studies at the University of Auckland is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to explore the rich histories, cultures, languages, and contemporary issues faced by Indigenous peoples, particularly those of Aotearoa New Zealand. This program provides students with a deep understanding of Indigenous epistemologies, sociologies, and philosophies, fostering critical thinking and intercultural awareness. Throughout their studies, students engage with a diverse range of subjects including Māori language and tikanga (customs), Indigenous governance, environmental management, and social justice. The curriculum emphasizes the importance of Indigenous knowledge systems and their relevance in addressing current global challenges. By integrating theoretical learning with practical experiences, the program empowers students to become informed advocates for Indigenous rights and sustainability. Students have opportunities to participate in community projects, internships, and research initiatives that connect academic concepts with real-world applications. The program also encourages the development of skills in research, communication, and cross-cultural collaboration, preparing graduates for careers in policy development, education, community leadership, and advocacy. Emphasizing the importance of Indigenous perspectives in national and international contexts, the Bachelor of Indigenous Studies aims to foster respectful relationships and promote social justice. Graduates leave the program equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute meaningfully to Indigenous communities and work towards equity and reconciliation. The University of Auckland’s commitment to Indigenous education ensures that students receive a supportive learning environment that respects and promotes Indigenous cultural identity and values. Overall, this program is ideal for students passionate about making a positive impact on Indigenous communities and seeking to understand and preserve Indigenous heritage and knowledge in a modern context.

• 60 points: INDIGEN 700, MĀORI 732
• 45 points: INDIGEN 792 Dissertation
• at least 75 points from ARTHIST 730, 732, DEVELOP 710, EDUC 710, 731, 734, 787, ENVMGT 746, FTVMS 728, GEOG 712, 715, 748, INDIGEN 701, 702, LAWPUBL 446, 703, 749, MĀORI 734, 743, MAORIHTH 710, PACIFIC 700, 705, POLITICS 724, 750, SOCIOL 713, 736, 746, SPANISH 735
• up to 30 points from 700 level courses offered at this University, as approved by the Programme Coordinator

Entry requirements

In order to be admitted to the Master of Indigenous Studies, you will need to have either:

• completed the requirements for a Bachelors degree, or an equivalent qualification approved by Senate or its representative, in a relevant subject with a Grade Point Average of 5.0 or higher in 45 points above Stage II.

or

• completed the requirements for a Bachelors (Honours) degree or Postgraduate Diploma, or an equivalent qualification approved by Senate or its representative, in a relevant subject with a Grade Point Average of 5.0 or higher.

Minimum postgraduate English language requirements 

• IELTS (Academic): Overall score of 6.5 and all bands 6.0 or better
• Internet-based TOEFL (iBT): Overall score of 90 plus a written score of 21
• Paper-based TOEFL: Overall score of 575 plus Essay (TWE) of 4.5
• Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) and Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE): Overall score of 176 and all bands 169 or better
• Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic: Overall score of 58 and no PTE communicative skills score below 50. 
• Michigan English Language Assessment Battery (MELAB): 85

The University of Auckland provides a variety of different scholarships:

• University of Auckland International Student Scholarships
• Faculty of Arts International Masters Degree Scholarships

The Bachelor of Arts in Indigenous Studies at The University of Auckland offers students a comprehensive understanding of the diverse histories, cultures, and contemporary issues faced by Indigenous peoples in New Zealand and globally. This programme provides an interdisciplinary approach, integrating perspectives from anthropology, history, politics, and cultural studies to explore Indigenous identities, sovereignty, and resilience. Students have the opportunity to engage with Māori and other Indigenous communities through fieldwork, internships, and community projects, fostering a deep connection to real-world issues and practices. The curriculum includes courses on Māori language and tikanga (customs), Indigenous rights, and colonial histories, enabling graduates to develop both academic knowledge and practical skills relevant to careers in policy, advocacy, education, and community development. The programme emphasizes critical thinking about Indigenous epistemologies and aims to prepare students to contribute meaningfully to reconciliation processes and Indigenous rights advocacy. With a strong emphasis on research and cultural engagement, students are encouraged to explore topics that resonate with their interests, supported by expert faculty with extensive research backgrounds in Indigenous Studies. The Bachelor of Arts in Indigenous Studies at The University of Auckland is designed for those passionate about social justice, cultural preservation, and Indigenous empowerment, offering a pathway to postgraduate study or employment in sectors dedicated to Indigenous well-being and rights.