Defence Studies – Graduate Diploma in Arts

Massey University

New Zealand, Palmerston North

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Massey University

New Zealand , Palmerston North

Key Facts

Program Level

Graduate Diploma

Study Type

Full Time

Delivery

Online

Campuses

Distance and online

Program Language

English

Start & Deadlines

Next Intake DeadlinesMay-2026

Apply to this program

Go to the official application for the university

Duration 1 year(s)

Tuition Fee

NZD 32,280 / year

Next Intake May-2026

Defence Studies – Graduate Diploma in Arts

About

Specialise in Defence Studies for your Graduate Diploma in Arts at Massey

The Graduate Diploma in Arts (Defence Studies) is a bridging tool for graduates in other subjects to get the equivalent of a major in defence studies. You can then apply for a postgraduate qualification in defence studies if you wish.

Get a powerful combination of skills

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

Unique in New Zealand

You’ll examine the contemporary world of modern defence. This includes its impact on media, technology and conflict resolution at local and global levels. This is at 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 qualification is designed in collaboration with an advisory board of New Zealand’s top defence and security officials.

Our qualification 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 only for people working in the defence forces, they’re for anyone interested in understanding the world of modern defence.

Further study

If you successfully complete your Graduate Diploma in Arts, you could go on to study a Postgraduate Diploma in Arts or a Master of Arts.

Requirements

Entry Requirements

Admission to Massey

All students must meet university entrance requirements to be admitted to the University.

Massey University entry requirements

Specific requirements

To enter the Graduate Diploma in Arts (Defence Studies) you will have been awarded or qualified for a bachelor’s degree or equivalent.

You will need to provide copies of all official academic transcripts for studies taken at all universities other than Massey University.

English language requirements

To study this qualification you must meet Massey University's English language standards.

This qualification is classified as NZQF Level 7 and requires the same English language standard as most undergraduate bachelor degrees, diplomas and certificates.

Massey University English language requirements

English language skills

If you need help with your English language skills before you start university, see our English for Academic Purposes (EAP) courses.

English Program Requirements

English Evidence Academic IELTS^: 6.5 overall and minimum 6.0 in each band

English Evidence TOEFL iBT: Overall score 90, minimum 20 in Writing

English Evidence Pearson Test of English (PTE): 58 overall and minimum 50 in each communicative skills

Career

With a Graduate 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: