Bachelor of Arts in Indigenous Studies

The Bachelor of Arts in Indigenous Studies at the University of Otago offers students a comprehensive and nuanced exploration of the histories, cultures, and contemporary issues faced by Indigenous peoples, particularly focusing on Māori communities in New Zealand. This programme is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of Indigenous worldviews, epistemologies, and social realities, fostering critical thinking and cultural awareness that are essential in today's increasingly globalized and diverse society.

Throughout the degree, students engage with a wide range of courses that cover Indigenous languages, arts, governance, social justice, and environmental management. They explore topics such as Indigenous identity, sovereignty, treaty rights, language revitalization, and decolonization processes. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical frameworks and practical applications, encouraging students to critically examine historical and contemporary Indigenous issues through indigenous perspectives and methodologies.

The programme aims to develop skills in research, analysis, and intercultural communication, preparing graduates for careers in education, policy development, community advocacy, research, and international agencies that work with Indigenous populations. Students have opportunities to participate in community-based projects, fieldwork, and internships that enhance practical experience and foster meaningful connections with Indigenous communities.

Designed with an interdisciplinary approach, the Bachelor of Arts in Indigenous Studies integrates insights from anthropology, history, political science, arts, and environmental studies, among others. This holistic educational experience equips students to contribute thoughtfully and effectively to initiatives that promote Indigenous rights, resource management, and cultural preservation.

In addition to academic coursework, students are encouraged to develop a personal and professional understanding of Indigenous issues, fostering respect, empathy, and a commitment to social justice. Upon graduation, students are well-prepared to continue advanced study or to enter roles that support Indigenous development and reconciliation efforts.

Overall, the Indigenous Studies programme at the University of Otago is committed to advancing knowledge, understanding, and respect for Indigenous peoples and their enduring contributions to society. It aims to create a new generation of informed leaders who are dedicated to promoting equity, preserving cultural identities, and addressing complex Indigenous issues in New Zealand and around the world.

The Bachelor of Arts in Indigenous Studies at the University of Otago offers students a comprehensive exploration of the histories, cultures, and contemporary issues faced by Indigenous peoples, with a primary focus on Māori and Pasifika communities. The programme is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of Indigenous worldviews, knowledge systems, and cultural practices, fostering an appreciation for their significance and diversity within Aotearoa New Zealand and beyond. Throughout the degree, students engage with an interdisciplinary curriculum that combines anthropology, history, politics, and language studies, enabling them to critically analyze the social, political, and economic challenges impacting Indigenous populations.

The programme emphasizes experiential learning and encourages active engagement with Indigenous communities, enabling students to gain practical insights and develop meaningful connections. Courses cover a broad range of topics including Indigenous history, language revitalization, arts and storytelling, health and well-being, legal rights, and social justice issues. Students have opportunities to participate in field trips, internships, and community projects that enhance their understanding and foster collaboration with Indigenous organisations. The curriculum also aims to promote cultural competence and respect, equipping graduates to work effectively in fields such as education, social services, policy development, and community leadership.

A key feature of the Indigenous Studies programme is its commitment to supporting Māori language acquisition and fluency, recognizing the importance of language preservation as a central element of cultural identity. The programme encourages students to undertake language courses and participate in cultural activities, fostering a strong sense of connection and responsibility towards Indigenous communities. Graduates of the programme leave equipped with critical thinking, intercultural communication skills, and a nuanced understanding of Indigenous issues, preparing them for careers that promote social equity, cultural preservation, and Indigenous sovereignty. Whether pursuing further academic research or entering the workforce, students develop a solid foundation rooted in respect, understanding, and active advocacy for Indigenous peoples and their rights.

The Bachelor of Arts in Indigenous Studies at the University of Otago requires students to complete a comprehensive curriculum designed to provide a deep understanding of indigenous histories, cultures, languages, and contemporary issues. The program typically comprises core courses that introduce students to the foundational concepts of indigenous studies, including indigenous worldviews, sovereignty, and cultural revitalization. Students are expected to choose from a variety of elective courses that explore specific aspects of indigenous peoples in Aotearoa New Zealand and globally, covering topics such as Māori language and culture, indigenous politics, traditional knowledge systems, and indigenous arts and methodologies.

To graduate with honours, students often must undertake a research project or thesis that demonstrates their ability to critically analyze indigenous issues and contribute to academic discourse. The program emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical engagement, encouraging students to participate in community-based initiatives, internships, or fieldwork to gain real-world experience. In addition, students may have opportunities to study indigenous topics in other disciplines, such as anthropology, history, or law, providing a multidisciplinary approach. The duration of the full-time program is typically three years, with part-time options available. Throughout their study, students develop skills in critical thinking, cultural competency, and effective communication, preparing them for careers in academia, government, community organizations, or sectors requiring expertise in indigenous affairs. Maintaining a minimum grade point average may be required for progression, and students are often encouraged to participate in workshops, seminars, and conferences related to indigenous issues. The program aims to cultivate knowledgeable, respectful, and engaged graduates who can contribute positively to indigenous communities and wider society.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The University of Otago offers a range of financial support options for students enrolled in the Indigenous Studies programme. Prospective and current students can access various scholarships, grants, and funding opportunities to assist with tuition fees, living costs, and research expenses. The university's scholarships database provides information on awards specifically available to students pursuing Indigenous Studies, including the Ngāi Tahu Scholarships, which support students of Ngāi Tahu descent, and other iwi-based scholarships aimed at Māori students undertaking studies related to Māori culture, language, and history. Additionally, there are university-wide funding options such as the Otago Merit Scholarships, which recognize academic excellence across all disciplines. The university also offers bursaries designed to support students facing financial hardship, including the Otago International Excellence Scholarship and the Otago Access Scheme, which provides financial assistance to domestic students from low-income backgrounds.

Students are encouraged to apply for external funding sources, including government grants, Māori Trust Board scholarships, and private foundations that support indigenous education initiatives. The New Zealand StudyLink Student Loan and Allowance schemes are also available for eligible students, providing loans to cover tuition fees and allowances for living expenses. International students enrolled in the Indigenous Studies programme may be eligible for specific scholarships aimed at supporting international students, such as the University of Otago International Excellence Scholarship, which can contribute toward tuition costs.

The university’s financial aid office offers personalized advice and assistance with the application process for various funding options. Students are advised to consult the official University of Otago website regularly for updated information on available scholarships and deadlines. Furthermore, the university promotes financial literacy and planning, offering workshops, online resources, and counselling services to help students manage their finances effectively throughout their studies. Overall, the University of Otago is committed to ensuring that financial barriers do not impede students from engaging fully with their Indigenous Studies programme, encouraging a diverse and inclusive academic community.

The Bachelor of Arts in Indigenous Studies at the University of Otago offers students a comprehensive understanding of Indigenous cultures, histories, and contemporary issues, primarily focusing on Māori and other Indigenous peoples. This programme is designed to foster critical thinking and culturally sensitive knowledge, preparing students for roles in policy, education, community development, and advocacy. The curriculum combines interdisciplinary approaches, integrating anthropology, history, politics, and language studies to provide a well-rounded view of Indigenous realities and contributions. Students engage with Māori language courses and cultural practices, which are integral parts of the programme, encouraging immersion and understanding of Indigenous perspectives. The programme may also involve community engagement components, such as internships or collaborative projects with Māori organizations, to develop practical skills and foster relationships with Indigenous communities. Graduates of this degree will be equipped with the analytical tools and cultural insights necessary to work effectively in sectors focused on Indigenous rights and development. The programme is suited for those passionate about social justice, cultural preservation, and reconciliation initiatives. It builds on Otago’s commitment to bicultural understanding and includes opportunities for students to participate in research and fieldwork. With a flexible structure, students can tailor their studies to align with specific interests within Indigenous Studies, enabling specialization in areas such as Māori history, language revitalization, Indigenous governance, or social policy. The programme encourages critical engagement with issues facing Indigenous peoples globally while maintaining a strong focus on the New Zealand context. Throughout the degree, students benefit from Otago’s experienced faculty, many of whom are actively involved in Indigenous research and community projects, providing mentorship and expert perspectives. This degree aims to produce graduates who are informed, culturally respectful, and capable of contributing meaningfully to Indigenous communities and broader society.