Sargeson Prize winner praises prestigious award ahead of 2023 entries opening
Arts, Design and Communication
Unleash your creativity at the University of Waikato. Explore diverse programmes to develop practical skills across arts disciplines.
For the people ready to work their creativity
Any idea, issue or solution requires creativity and ways of communicating that stand out, have impact, affect people, and contribute to change.
The arts provide creative and practical ways of understanding ourselves, other people and the world around us, conveying and expressing innovative and impactful insights.
Studying Arts, Design and Communication at the University of Waikato is your opportunity to develop competence and practical skills to move confidently from stage and screen, to language and sound, in areas such as modern languages, visual literacy, musical and vocal expression, theatrical and movement composition, sound design and creative writing. In doing so, you will utilise multiple traditional and digital platforms.
Choose from a variety of degrees
Apply to study with us
Explore a wide range of programmes
Our students can work alongside top-rated teachers and internationally respected scholars, across a number of different majors:
Performing Arts
Music
Study with renowned performers, composers, and musicologists, and perform in the esteemed Dr John Gallagher Concert Chamber at the University of Waikato’s performing arts academy.
Theatre Studies
Explore a rich and challenging pathway, developing performance practice and exploring theatre's impact on the world.
Media and Creative Technologies
Screen and Media Studies
Deepen your understanding of media's theoretical and practical aspects and its influence on behaviour, attitudes, and beliefs.
Creative Media
Combine foundational skills for the Creative Industries with Communication to enhance your employability and distinctiveness.
Media Production
Develop practical skills in media production and understand various media platforms to prepare for diverse media-related careers.
Design
Industrial Design
Shape the world by designing everyday products with durability, purpose, and aesthetic appeal for diverse industries.
Interface Design
Create intuitive visual experiences for digital media, from screens to AR and VR, blending design with coding skills.
Media Design
Create dynamic multimedia content using design skills in animation, film, and motion graphics for diverse platforms.
Communication Design
Explore how to craft compelling narratives and engage audiences through diverse digital media and technologies.
Languages, Literature and Culture
English
Prepare for a dynamic future by honing reading, writing, and thinking skills through diverse art forms.
International Languages and Culture
Gain valuable language skills and cultural insights with our five specialisations: Chinese, French, Japanese, Korean, and Spanish.
Linguistics
Explore the scientific study of language, gaining insights into structure, cultures, and career opportunities in communication.
Big Band Jazz Ensemble available at Waikato!
Do you play trumpet, trombone, saxophone, drums, bass, piano or guitar? Or maybe you have an interest in singing Jazz? Do you love to collaborate with other musicians? If so, sign up for our MUSIC122 or MUSIC227 papers.
Why study with us?
Step into your future
Personalised career development support to help you take the next step.
Support your learning
Get extra support with our broad range of scholarships.
Outstanding campus and facilites
Specialist teaching facilities, including the acclaimed Dr John Gallagher Concert Chamber.
Adapt to the changing world
Looking to up-skill or need a change of direction? Explore our wide range of study options.
