Duration
Available locations
Programme type

Programme overview

The BA gives you the freedom to follow your interests and study the subjects you love. You can choose from a wide range of study possibilities that cater for many different interests or career goals.

Your BA study can develop the knowledge and skills you need to future-proof your career. Capabilities such as communication and creative thinking will keep your options open for different opportunities in the fast-changing world of work. You can further extend your skill set for future careers through one or two of our optional, theme-based modules.

Your double major will give your degree a strong focus and deepen your knowledge and skills. You have the flexibility to explore different subjects before you choose your two majors.

You can also study two different fields by combining a BA with another degree as
part of a conjoint programme.

Programme structure

The BA is made up of 24 courses across 3 years of full-time study (360 points/24 courses).

You are required to select two BA subjects as your two majors.
Please check all the available courses for you to study under your chosen majors.

The broad structure of the programme is:

  • Eight courses in your chosen first major (120 points)
  • Eight courses in your chosen second major (120 points)
  • Two General Education courses (30 Points)
  • Six elective courses (90 points)
  • Up to two (30 points) of these can be from outside of the BA schedule from other faculties such as Science or Fine Arts. 

You can take one or two optional modules instead of elective courses. A module is a group of three courses (45 points) focusing on a specific skill or knowledge to benefit or inform future careers.

See the Subjects tab to learn more about the areas you’re interested in, and see what courses are on offer to help you plan your enrolment for the year.

Sample degree planners can be downloaded here and used to plan your study.

See the Student Hub for guidance on degree planning or any questions you may have.

You can access a range of information about The University of Auckland online at AskAuckland.

Most students need to take one or two General Education courses.

Students should also be aware of the University’s Academic English Language Requirement.

For all official programme information, including regulations about entry, enrolment, fees, examinations, and requirements for degrees, diplomas and certificates, see the University Calendar.

Sample programme structure

Double major

Year one 120 points

  • Name:
    Stage I course
    Type:
    First major
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Name:
    Stage I course
    Type:
    First major
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Name:
    Stage I course
    Type:
    Second major
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Name:
    Stage I course
    Type:
    Second major
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Name:
    Stage I course
    Type:
    Elective course
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Name:
    Stage I course
    Type:
    Elective course
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Name:
    Stage I course
    Type:
    Optional module
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Name:
    Stage I course
    Type:
    General Education course
    Points:
    15 pts

Year two 120 points

  • Name:
    Stage II course
    Type:
    First major
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Name:
    Stage II course
    Type:
    First major
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Name:
    Stage II course
    Type:
    First major
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Name:
    Stage II course
    Type:
    Second major
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Name:
    Stage II course
    Type:
    Second major
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Name:
    Stage II course
    Type:
    Second major
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Name:
    Stage II course
    Type:
    Optional module
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Name:
    Stage I course
    Type:
    General Education course
    Points:
    15 pts

Year three 120 points

  • Name:
    Stage III course
    Type:
    First major
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Name:
    Stage III course
    Type:
    First major
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Name:
    Stage III course
    Type:
    First major
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Name:
    Stage III course
    Type:
    Second major
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Name:
    Stage III course
    Type:
    Second major
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Name:
    Stage III course
    Type:
    Second major
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Name:
    Stage III course
    Type:
    Optional module
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Name:
    Stage III course
    Type:
    Elective course
    Points:
    15 pts

Majors available in this programme

Modules

A module is an optional grouping of three courses on a particular theme designed to complement the skills you will develop through your Bachelor of Arts. Modules available:

Find out more about modules

Additional subjects

You can also take elective courses in:

For all official programme information, including regulations about entry, enrolment, fees, examinations, and requirements for degrees, diplomas and certificates, see the University Calendar.

2024 entry requirements

My highest qualification is from:

Secondary school qualifications

If you're joining us from secondary school, here's what you need to enter the programme.

You are guaranteed entry to this programme if you meet these requirements.

  1. First, you must meet the University Entrance (UE) standard.
  2. You must also meet the rank score for this programme. Not sure about your rank score? Use our rank score calculator.
  3. You may need to have studied certain subjects or achieved credits in particular subjects.
  4. Some programmes have additional requirements, such as an interview, portfolio or references.

Guaranteed rank score, subject and other requirements

If your rank score is slightly lower than the guaranteed score, we encourage you to still apply. We will consider your application if places are available. If you don’t meet the requirements, you may be able to apply under our Undergraduate Targeted Admission Schemes.

  • Qualification
    NCEA National Certificate of Educational Achievement
    Score required
    150
  • Qualification
    CIE Cambridge International Examinations
    Score required
    150
  • Qualification
    IB International Baccalaureate
    Score required
    26

Read more about entry requirements for New Zealand secondary school applicants.

Tertiary qualifications

If you've studied at a tertiary institution, here's what you need to enter the programme.

You can transfer from another tertiary institution, or another University of Auckland qualification, if you meet these requirements.

Guaranteed grade requirements

These are the grades required for guaranteed entry to this programme. If your grades are slightly lower, we encourage you to still apply. We will consider your application if places are available.

Further requirements

You must have completed one semester of successful bachelor degree study from a New Zealand tertiary institution, or one year of successful study as part of an acceptable sub-degree qualification from a New Zealand tertiary institution.

Transfer of Credit - You can apply for transfer of credit for tertiary courses completed elsewhere as part of your Application for Admission. For more information, see External transfer of credit.

If you have completed study at another New Zealand University, get an estimate of the transfer credit you may be eligible for, using our Transfer Credit Calculator.

See information about prior tertiary study requirements

Other pathways to study

You could be eligible for another programme, or check out these alternative pathways:

  • If your rank score is below our guaranteed admission level and you're not eligible for the Targeted Admission Scheme, you could qualify for Conditional Admission. 

My highest qualification is from this country or region:

Secondary school qualifications

If you're joining us from secondary school, here's what you need to enter the programme.

You need to have one of the following:

  • International Baccalaureate Diploma with a minimum total score of 24.
  • General Certificate of Education (GCE) Advanced Level. You must have completed a minimum of three A-Level subjects. 
  • Cambridge International Examinations (CIE). You must have completed a minimum of three A-level subjects.

GCE ‘A’ Level requirements apply to ‘A’ Level qualifications examined by bodies such as AQA, OCR, Edexcel, WJEC, CCEA and Pearson Education Limited taken outside of New Zealand.

Minimum grade, subject and other requirements

Minimum requirements listed here are the likely grades required and do not guarantee entry. We assess each application individually and applicants may require a higher grade to be offered a place. Your CIE/GCE A level score is calculated on the best three academic subjects and General Studies cannot be included.

  • Qualification
    IB International Baccalaureate Diploma
    Score required
    26
    Qualification
    IELTS Academic International English Language Testing System
    Score required
    6.0

    No bands less than 5.5.

    See alternative English language requirements

  • Qualification
    GCE A Level/CIE General Certificate of Education Advanced Level
    Score required
    CCC
    Qualification
    IELTS Academic International English Language Testing System
    Score required
    6.0

    No bands less than 5.5.

    See alternative English language requirements

Tertiary qualifications

If you've studied at a tertiary institution, here's what you need to enter the programme.

You can transfer from another tertiary institution if you meet these requirements.

You need to have the following:

One year successful bachelor-degree level study at a recognised university (or similar institution) overseas. 

See information about prior tertiary study requirements

Guaranteed grade requirements

These are the grades required for guaranteed entry to this programme. If your grades are slightly lower, we encourage you to still apply. We will consider your application if places are available.

Other pathways to study

You could be eligible for another programme, or check out these alternative pathways:

  • Bridge your educational gap with a preparation and foundation programme.
  • If you have an offer of place from us that is conditional on meeting English language requirements, you may be considered for English Pathway courses from the University of Auckland English Language Academy (ELA)
  • If you are 20 on or before the first day of semester, have no formal University Entrance (UE) qualification, and are a New Zealand or Australian citizen or permanent resident you can apply for special admission.
For all official programme information, including regulations about entry, enrolment, fees, examinations, and requirements for degrees, diplomas and certificates, see the University Calendar.

How much does a Bachelor of Arts cost per year?

2024 fees

Domestic students
NZ$6,778.80 – $7,819.20*
International students
NZ$36,836 – $44,078*

Fees are set in advance of each calendar year and will be updated on this website. Fees are inclusive of 15% GST, but do not include the Student Services Fee, course books, travel and health insurance, or living costs. Amounts shown are indicative only. In addition to the tuition fees, there is a Student Services Fee of $8.88 per point, estimated at $1,065.60 for full-time study (120 points). Fees will be confirmed upon completion of enrolment into courses.

*Please note: amounts shown are indicative and estimates only.

See course fees for each faculty

Find out about financial support information

Scholarships and awards

Find out about the scholarships you may be eligible for.

Student loans and allowances

Are you a New Zealand citizen or resident? You could be eligible for a student loan or allowance.

Cost of living

Get an idea of how much accommodation and general living in Auckland will cost.

For all official programme information, including regulations about entry, enrolment, fees, examinations, and requirements for degrees, diplomas and certificates, see the University Calendar.

Key dates

Please note: We will consider late applications if places are still available. International students should start the application process as early as possible to allow sufficient time to apply for a visa.

Application closing dates

Summer School 2024
1 December 2023
Semester One 2024
8 December 2023
Semester Two 2024
4 July 2024

Start dates

Here are the start dates for the programme.

Other important dates

See important dates for the academic year, including orientation, enrolment, study breaks, exams, and graduation.

How to apply

Applying for an undergraduate programme? Check out our step-by-step guide.

For all official programme information, including regulations about entry, enrolment, fees, examinations, and requirements for degrees, diplomas and certificates, see the University Calendar.

Plan Your Degree

The Bachelor of Arts consists of 24 courses but offers students the flexibility to explore multiple areas of study. The following is a guide on how students can complete a BA. Please see Student Hubs for personalised guidance.

Degree planner

BA degree planners can be downloaded here and used to plan your study.

Year One

A typical first year for a BA student looks like:

  • 2 x Stage I courses in your first major
  • 2 x Stage I courses in your second major
  • 3 x Stage I Arts electives
  • 1 x General Education course

By structuring your first year this way, you remain on track to complete second-year courses in your chosen majors. This approach allows students to explore their interests and discover their strengths. The BA allows students to change their majors throughout their programme, so students are encouraged to use their first year to explore their interests.

See the Subjects tab to learn more about the areas you’re interested in and see what courses can help you plan your enrolment for the year.

Year Two

A typical second year for a BA student looks like:

  • 3 x Stage II courses in your first major
  • 3 x Stage II courses in your second major
  • 2 x Stage I Arts electives

Year Three

A typical third year for a BA student looks like:

  • 3 x Stage III courses in your first major
  • 3 x Stage III courses in your second major
  • 1 x General Education course
  • 1 x Stage I Arts elective

General Education

You are required to complete two General Education courses from the Arts or Open Schedules. These can be taken in any semester of your study. General Education papers are designed to allow you to study a broad range of subjects. You cannot take courses in a subject in which you have previously passed a course or take both of your General Education courses in the same subject.

Modules

You can take one or two optional modules instead of elective courses. A module is a group of three courses (45 points) focusing on a specific skill or knowledge to benefit or inform future careers.

For all official programme information, including regulations about entry, enrolment, fees, examinations, and requirements for degrees, diplomas and certificates, see the University Calendar.

Where could this programme take you?

Your BA study will help you develop strong capabilities for many careers: communication skills; creative and critical thinking; the ability to research, analyse and evaluate information; problem-solving; adaptability; and an awareness of different perspectives. These enduring capabilities are increasingly valued by employers. You'll be well-positioned to pursue new career opportunities as the world of work changes.

Jobs related to this programme

  • Business Development Co-ordinator
  • Communications Specialist
  • Digital Product and Content Manager
  • English Language Teacher
  • Research, Evaluation and Policy Lead
  • Sales and Marketing Executive

Further study options

See all study options

Graduate career: Daniel Haines

BA graduate Daniel Haines is leading the engagement with mana whenua to prepare for the 2021 America's Cup.

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Student career planning service

Once you become a student at the University, you can get help with planning and developing your career from Career Development and Employability Services.

Key Information for Students

Compare qualifications and academic information across different New Zealand institutions.

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Experience the University

A day in the life of a BA in Communication student

Georgia-Rae Taylor takes you through a day in her life as a BA in Communication student at the University of Auckland.

Study Communication

Do you need help?

AskAuckland

Your online help and support centre. Search our frequently asked questions.

Can’t find the answer in AskAuckland?

Our student support team is here to help. Use our online contact form.

Need to speak to someone?

You can phone us directly.

Auckland
923 5025
Outside Auckland
0800 61 62 63
International
+64 9 373 7513