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Bachelor of Broadcasting Communications (Journalism)

Close Date: 30 September
International Close Date: Please enquire

COVID-19 vaccination information

Placements or workplace assignments are an integral part of this programme.You don’t need to supply evidence of your Covid-19 vaccination status to apply for this programme, but please be aware that some workplaces may require evidence from you that you are fully vaccinated from COVID-19 before allowing you to complete work at their organisation.

Prepare to face the world of broadcast and online news and current affairs head-on with our internationally renowned journalism degree.

Our Bachelor of Broadcasting Communications degree specialising in journalism is a highly practical programme providing you with the skills and theory to break news stories and be actively involved with the production of news for radio, television or online media.

Early in your studies you'll gain a strong grounding in broadcasting and communications theory, writing and researching news bulletins for our radio station. You'll also report TV news stories for broadcast and online.

In close collaboration with our media partners, our programme has been designed to produce graduates who will meet the needs of the industry. Our 24-week industry internship gives you more real-world experience, builds your industry contacts and gives you a real edge when it comes to securing your first job.

Please note: This degree is currently undergoing its regulatory five-yearly review. The Level 5 and 6 courses may change slightly once the review is approved. Any changes will be reflected on this page. This will not affect your enrolment status.

Fees for 2023

Domestic Fee
$7,607 - $10,635 per year
International Fee
$26,293 per year
Valid To
December 31, 2023

NCEA Level 3 (60 credits at Level 3 and 20 credits at Level 2 or higher) which must include 14 credits at Level 3 in each of 3 subjects from the list of approved subjects*

  • one of these subjects must include 14 literacy credits at Level 3

and Numeracy* - 10 credits at Level 1 or above (specified achievement standards, or unit standards 26623, 26626, 26627)

OR New Zealand Certificate in Study and Career Preparation (Level 4) Ara Broadcasting and Media Pathway

OR Certificate in University Preparation (CUP)

Due to Covid-19 disruption, if you studied and achieved NCEA Level 3 during 2020, you only need 12 credits per Level 3 subject (i.e. total of 36 credits). Literacy and Numeracy requirements remain the same

If you have undertaken examinations other than NCEA (e.g. International Baccalaureate, Cambridge Examination), Ara will assess your qualification for academic entry equivalency.

* NZQA approved subjects: see http://www.nzqa.govt.nz/qualifications-standards/awards/university-entrance/

You will need to complete the New Zealand Broadcasting School Additional Requirements form which includes:

  • a covering statement
  • two named referees

Shortlisted applicants who meet entry criteria may be required to attend an advisement/korero to confirm programme/applicant suitability.

Still want to study but don't meet the Academic Requirements?

  • If you show that you have equivalent skills for tertiary study gained through study, work and/or life experience, you may be able to gain alternative entry.
  • Note: The number of courses you have to complete for this qualification may be reduced where you have relevant credits from previous study, or evidence of similar learning or experience in the workplace.

What if English is not my first Language?

If English is not your first language, we want to make sure that you will be successful in your chosen programme of study.

  • Please provide a result from a test or qualification on the acceptable alternatives English Proficiency Outcomes Chart.
  • If you are a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent Resident, complete an Admission and Enrolment form and Ara will contact you regarding a free assessment.
  • If you are not a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent resident, book an IELTS or other test through the Ara Examination Centre or in your home country.
  • IELTS scores used must be taken from a single IELTS Test Report Form and are valid for two years from the date of the test.
  • What if I have achieved NCEA Level 3 University Entrance?
  • You do not need to provide additional evidence of English Language skills.

Overall IELTS 6.0 Academic

  • 5.5 Listening
  • 5.5 Reading
  • 5.5 Writing
  • 5.5 Speaking

Selection committees ensure the selection process is consistent across the three specialisations of the degree

These committees review applications received and draw up a short list of candidates

The process is designed to assess suitability of the programme for the applicant as well as potential for a successful career in a media-related industry

It is based on:

  • the written Ara application form
  • additional requirements
  • interview/korero

Selection committees are made up of tutors from the specialisations (all craft professionals themselves) and a current industry practioner wherever possible

The committees have established criteria and a marking schedule by which all candidates are ranked

Any applicant who meets the entry criteria but is not offered a place is waitlisted, in order of ranking

Applicants who meet the requirements for admission are accepted in the order their applications are received. In the event that there are more applications than spaces available on the programme, a waitlist will be maintained.

Funding assistance

If you face unexpected financial hardship during your studies, we have several funds that you can apply for. These are designed to enable you to continue your current course of study. We also have a wide range of scholarships and awards that can provide financial assistance.

Find out more

Career opportunities

As a graduate of this programme you will be ready to establish a career as a journalist, working in newsrooms throughout the country as a reporter, digital editor, presenter, producer or researcher.

Study pathways

Use this qualification as a foundation for further postgraduate study in media and communications.

Recommended school subjects

  • English or English-rich subjects
  • Media studies
  • Relevant industry experience

Bachelor of Broadcasting Communications (Journalism)

FULL-TIME - 3 Years

Prepare to face the world of broadcast and online news and current affairs head-on with our internationally renowned journalism degree.

Information
Type Degree
Code CH3714
Application close date 30 September
May be available for Study Visa? Yes
International application close date Please enquire
Credits 360
Level 7
Additional Equipment/Fees $1000 per year
May be eligible for Studylink? Yes
May be eligible for Fees Free? Yes
Reference CH3714-JOUR

Fees for 2023

Domestic Fee
$7,607 - $10,635 per year
International Fee
$26,293 per year
Valid To
December 31, 2023
Enquire Now

With an internationally-recognised Ara qualification, the world is your oyster. Our graduates can be found working and making a difference across the globe…

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Additional Entry Requirements

You will need to complete the New Zealand Broadcasting School Additional Requirements form which includes:

  • a covering statement
  • two named referees

Shortlisted applicants who meet entry criteria may be required to attend an advisement/korero to confirm programme/applicant suitability.

See overview for more

Credit Recognition

If you have prior relevant experience or previous related study credits, you may be eligible for credit recognition towards this qualification.

Find out more

Documents

Area of Interest

Key Information for Students

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