Master of Arts

Program Overview

The University of Auckland's Master of Arts (MA) program offers students the chance to specialize or expand their knowledge in diverse areas of the arts and humanities. With flexible learning options, a distinguished faculty, and a focus on critical thinking and research skills, the program prepares graduates for careers in various sectors, including policy analysis, research, and education.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The MA program at the University of Auckland offers students an opportunity to specialize or expand their knowledge in diverse areas of the arts and humanities. It provides a range of options to cater to individual academic needs and interests, including research and taught degrees, one-year or 18-month programs, and a selection of over 40 subjects for study. The program allows students to:

• Deepen their knowledge in small classes with close faculty interaction.

• Contribute to existing knowledge through a substantial research project in the research-based master's program.

• Complete a smaller research project in the taught master's program.

• Gain specialized skills and knowledge in their chosen subject area.

• Explore new areas of study that differ from their previous specialization.

Outline:

The program structure varies depending on the chosen subject and desired degree pathway. Here's a breakdown of the different program options:

Research Masters (120 points):

• Typically involves a 120-point thesis or research portfolio.
• Some subjects offer a combination of a 90-point thesis and 30 points from taught courses.
• Up to 30 points from other subjects may be included.
• Completion timeframe is one year full-time or up to two consecutive years part-time.

Taught Masters (180 points):

• Introduced in 2022, focusing on advanced taught courses and a dissertation.
• Admission requires an undergraduate degree.
• Full-time completion is one and a half years, and part-time completion can take up to six years.

Taught Masters (120 points):

• Requires an undergraduate degree.
• Involves advanced taught courses and a small research project (e.g., dissertation).
• Up to 30 points from other subjects may be included.
• Completion timeframe is one year full-time or up to two consecutive years part-time.
• Only available in selected subjects.
The available subjects in the MA program are:
• Ancient History
• Anthropology
• Applied Linguistics
• Art History
• Asian Studies
• Chinese
• Criminology
• Development Studies
• Drama
• Economics
• Education
• Employment Relations and Organisation Studies
• English
• French
• Gender Studies
• Geography
• German
• History
• Italian
• Japanese
• Latin
• Linguistics
• Media and Screen Studies
• Museums and Cultural Heritage
• Māori Studies
• Pacific Studies
• Philosophy
• Politics and International Relations
• Psychology
• Screen Production
• Sociology
• Spanish

Assessment:

The assessment methods in the MA program vary depending on the chosen subject and program structure. However, some common assessment methods include:

• Examinations
• Essays and assignments
• Presentations
• Research projects
• Dissertations
• Portfolios
The specific assessment criteria will be outlined in the individual course outlines and program regulations.

Teaching:

The MA program utilizes diverse teaching methods to cater to different learning styles and subject requirements. These methods may include:

• Lectures
• Seminars
• Tutorials
• Workshops
• Independent research
• Field trips
• Guest lectures
• Online learning platforms
The program boasts a distinguished faculty of academics and researchers who are experts in their respective fields. The faculty members are dedicated to providing a supportive and stimulating learning environment for students.

Careers:

The MA program equips graduates with valuable skills and knowledge that can lead to diverse career opportunities in various sectors. Potential career paths for MA graduates include:

• Policy analyst
• Researcher
• Museum curator
• Journalist
• Teacher
• Librarian
• Archivist
• Cultural heritage officer
• International relations specialist
• Non-profit organization worker
Graduates may also pursue further academic studies, such as a PhD program.

Other:

• The program offers a flexible learning structure, allowing students to pursue their studies on a full-time or part-time basis.
The program's flexible structure, diverse teaching methods, distinguished faculty, and strong career prospects make it an attractive choice for students seeking a rewarding and enriching educational experience.