Diploma in Arts (DipArts)
Mixed Studies
A course by
Otago University
A one-year NZQA Level 5 diploma pathway for students close to university entrance, providing preparation across arts and social science disciplines and direct progression into the second year of the Bachelor of Arts degree.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Dunedin, Dunedin
It will take a total of 1 year
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Develop foundational university-level academic and English skills
Students will acquire essential academic literacy, writing, and communication abilities required for successful tertiary study.
Enhance cultural awareness in the New Zealand context
Students will build intercultural understanding, particularly relating to Aotearoa New Zealand's social and cultural environment.
Understand historical and contemporary societal issues
Students will gain introductory knowledge of key events, structures, and challenges in historical and present-day societies.
What You're Signing Up For
The Diploma in Arts (DipArts) at the University of Otago is designed for motivated domestic or international students who narrowly miss university entrance. This fast-track, full-time, one-year programme helps students transition into university study through supported learning and targeted academic development. Completion of the DipArts enables entry directly into the second year of the Bachelor of Arts (BA), and includes core English and academic skills, cultural awareness, foundational history and contemporary society courses, and electives in arts and music disciplines. The qualification encourages a broad engagement with the humanities and social sciences, supporting diverse academic and career pathways.
Course Content
- English Skills for University Purposes 1 (PTWY 101)
- English Skills for University Purposes 2 (PTWY 102)
- Academic Skills for University Success (PTWY 103)
- Cultural Awareness in Aotearoa NZ (PTWY 104)
- Historical Worlds: Building States (PTWY 121)
- Contemporary Worlds: Our Challenges (PTWY 122)
- Representing Aotearoa NZ in Contemporary Literature Texts (PTWY 120) or Mathematics for University Purposes (PTWY 130)
- 54 points from Arts and Music Schedule C, including minimum of 36 points in 100-level requirements for one major subject
What you need to know first
Be at least 16 years of age by first day of classes
Be very close to meeting the New Zealand University Entrance standard or equivalent (based on secondary school or prior study achievement)
International students: Overall IELTS score of 5.5, with no individual band less than 5.0 or equivalent; completion of final year of high school and B- average across at least three relevant subjects
Domestic students: Achievement at NCEA Level 3 or equivalent deemed sufficient by the university
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Education
Humanities
Social Sciences
Academic Pathways
Future employment opportunities might be
Further progression into second year of Bachelor of Arts, leading to diverse careers in government, education, NGOs, media, cultural, or social research roles (as per BA outcomes)
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Our AI-powered Explorer is almost ready. Soon, you’ll be able to build a dynamic profile of your skills, goals, and strengths, and get a curated selection of courses just for you.
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