Faculty of Arts
Diploma in Languages
If you want to study one or two foreign languages, the Diploma in Languages (DipLang) is an alternative to the BA. You can combine language study with enrolment in any degree (including the BA) and graduate with an additional qualification.
Knowledge of another language is useful in many careers. You can add to your skills, distinguish yourself from other graduates and enhance your career opportunities. If you are interested in teaching languages, see the Faculty of Education's webpage about teaching languages in schools.
Language knowledge also adds depth and context to your study of other subjects, and is an advantage for postgraduate study and research.
Chinese, Cook Islands Maori, French, German, Greek (Ancient), Italian, Japanese, Korean, Latin, Māori, Russian, Samoan, Spanish, Tongan.
You may study one or two languages for the DipLang (courses may not always be available in all languages). Some languages offer study abroad courses.
The DipLang is taken part-time and is equivalent to one year's full-time study. You would normally take it concurrently with enrolment in a degree. The time you take to complete will depend on how you structure your enrolment.
| Your DipLang must include: | Courses |
|---|---|
| 120 points | 8 courses (15 points each) |
| One or two languages | Language courses chosen from those you may take for the DipLang |
| Courses at more advanced levels | Courses above Stage I: at least 4 (including at least 2 courses at Stage III) |
Because language study is progressive, it is not usually possible to study a language full-time. You cannot take courses at different levels in a single semester or year but need to spread your study over time so that you gradually build up your knowledge.
It may be possible to obtain credit towards this diploma of up to 30 points (including a General Education course). You have considerable flexibility as to how you structure your study.
Selected language courses are available for the DipLang. You must choose your courses from those listed in the schedule for the Diploma in Languages.
You must enrol in the appropriate course for your level of competency. Some language courses are for beginners, while others are for more advanced learners or native speakers. Read the course description and if necessary seek advice from an Undergraduate Adviser.
Language study involves following a progressive sequence of courses, so check course prerequisites when planning your study. You may also have to meet co requisites, ie: concurrent enrolment in two specified courses.
Enrolment limits
The University limits how many courses you can enrol in per year and per semester. You may enrol in up to 170 points in an academic year. Within this limit, you can take:
- up to 80 points in each of Semesters One and Two, and
- up to 30 points in Summer School.
Language Competency Form
If you want to study a modern language you must submit a Language Competency Form. This tells the department about your background (if any) in the language and ensures you take the right course/s. You may also need to sit a placement test.
Language Competency forms for Asian, European and Pacific languages
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