FAQs
Do I have to take more than one major?
No. You must take a first major and at least one minor to complete the requirements of the degree.
When will I find out what major/s minor/s I have been placed in and when can I enrol for 2024?
Your placement in major/s and minors/s will be confirmed in early October and enrolments for 2024 will open soon after you receive your confirmation. You will receive more detailed communication from us via email during Semester 2. Please make sure your preferred email address is up to date in Arion.
What is the difference between a major and a minor?
A major is a substantial component of a degree in a subject area selected by a student in accordance with the regulations, as the principal area of study within a programme. In the Bachelor of Communication Studies, a major makes up 120 points (typically 8 courses within the degree). A minor is a prescribed course of study in an undergraduate degree, in a subject area with less depth than a major. A minor is 60 points (typically 4 courses) in a subject area and must have a minimum of 15 points at level 7.
How am I ranked for a major with limited places?
Where a major is limited because of resources, entry will be subject to results in your first year. Your GPA will be calculated across your best 60 points (four papers) which must include either COMM516 Media Production Foundations or COMM517 Media Production Studio.
What is an elective?
A non-compulsory paper students may be able to choose as part of their programme to broaden their learning.
Can I take any combination of majors and minors?
All combinations are subject to placement and timetabling constraints. We will endeavour to make your preferred pathway/programme of study work for you.
Where do I find more information out about the papers I will be enrolling in?
All this information is stored on the Canvas - Communication Studies Programme Information page which can be found here.
When must I submit my preferred major by?
You must complete the form by the end of day September 1st to be considered for your preferred majors. If you miss this deadline we will help you organise a programme of study but you may miss out on being ranked for majors and/or minors where there are limited places.
What if I submitted my form and I have changed my mind?
You can resubmit the form up until the deadline but please note we will take the latest submission as your preferred pathway/programme of study. After the deadline passes you will need to email bcs@aut.ac.nz.
I am not sure what major to choose. Can I come and talk to someone?
Yes! You can email bcs@aut.ac.nz for help at any time and we will arrange for you to meet with one of our team.