Diploma in Arts (Defence Studies)

Massey’s Diploma in Arts (Defence Studies) will prepare you for a career that’s integral to the safety of New Zealand.

What is it Like?

The Diploma in Arts (Defence Studies) is a unique programme that combines the study of modern defence studies and military history with broad and transferable critical-thinking skills.

Unique in New Zealand

Examining the contemporary world of modern defence - including its impact on media, technology and conflict resolution at local and global levels - is the core of this diploma. Massey is the only university in New Zealand where you can study defence studies and military history at undergraduate level.

Learn from the best

You’ll be taught by staff with academic knowledge of defence studies and/or military, defence and security experience. The programme is designed in collaboration with an advisory board of New Zealand’s top defence and security officials. Our programme partners are government agencies that contribute to national, regional and global security, as well as peace and humanitarian aid initiatives.

You choose what to study

You can choose from a mix of military history, strategy, tactics, intelligence, command and technology courses. These courses aren’t just for people working in the defence forces, they’re for anyone interested in understanding the world of modern defence.

Careers

With a Diploma in Arts (Defence Studies) you’ll graduate in high demand.

There’s an increasing need for defence professionals, both military and civilian. Employers are looking for people with the intelligence, initiative and determination to work in a wide range of complex defence environments. These roles are integral to the safety of New Zealand, and the demand for qualified people who can fill these is exceptionally strong.

Our graduates are employed in a broad range of areas such as border control, law, policing, management, defence, immigration, intelligence, foreign affairs and trade, business, and international relations.

Defence studies is a great choice for a career in:

• Civil defence and disaster relief
• Diplomacy and conflict resolution
• Peacekeeping and truce monitoring
• Policy analysis
• Education
• Journalism and the media
• Management and planning
• Politics

This diploma also offers early- to mid-career professional development in public and private organisations where security is important.

Requirements

Defense Studies is not just for people employed in the military, it is for anyone with an interest in the various aspects of defense, for example, command, logistics, tactics, policy, or strategy.

The requirements for the Diploma in Arts endorsed in Defense studies are:

Pass both;

• 230.111 Tū Kupu: Writing and Inquiry
• 230.112 Tū Arohae: Critical Thinking

Pass 75 credits in Defence Studies consisting of:

• at least 45 credits at 200- and 300-level in Defence Studies
• 30 credits at any level in Defence Studies

The remaining 15 credits for the Diploma in Arts can be from Part II of the schedule for the Bachelor of Arts degree (including further courses from the endorsement subject) and/or courses offered in other undergraduate degrees.