Institute of Technology or Polytechnic
Ara Institute of CanterburyBachelor of Broadcasting Communications (Radio)
This course is available
On-Campus
Level of Study
Bachelor's Degree
Duration
3 years
Next start date
Expected Feb 2027
Campus
Christchurch - City Campus
Summary
Applications for 2027 are now open.
The Bachelor of Broadcasting Communications (Radio) will develop your understanding of this dynamic environment. It combines two years of immersive, on-campus learning with a third year spent working in the industry.
The programme is strongly influenced and supported by industry groups such as NZME, Mediaworks and The Radio Broadcasters Association.
On campus you’ll learn practical and research skills that will prepare you for a first-time position in the radio broadcasting industry. You'll study presenting, media business, audience engagement, branding, marketing, content creation, social media and audio production. You’ll also operate a commercial radio station that broadcasts throughout the Canterbury region and nationally via iHeartRadio and rova.
A 24-week paid industry placement will provide you with a highly effective link between the theoretical and practical aspects of broadcasting and gives you a clear pathway to a career in this exciting industry.
Our graduates are in demand - 90% of them secure employment in roles related to their field of study (Source: 2024 Ara Graduate Outcome Survey).
Entry criteria
Academic RequirementsUniversity Entrance as specified by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA)
OR Certificate in University Preparation (CUP)
If you have undertaken examinations other than NCEA (e.g. International Baccalaureate, Cambridge Examination), Ara will assess your qualification for academic entry equivalency.
Alternative RequirementsStill 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?
Overall IELTS 6.0 Academic
- 5.5 Listening
- 5.5 Reading
- 5.5 Writing
- 5.5 Speaking
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, please book a PTE Academic test through the Ara Examination Centre or complete an NZQA-approved English language test 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 University Entrance?
- You do not need to provide additional evidence of English Language skills.
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.
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