Bachelor of Applied Management
Gain specialist skills to make your mark in business.
What you'll be learning
This flexible degree will prepare you to succeed in business by equipping you with widely applicable, real-world knowledge and skills. You’ll develop your ability to think critically and strategically and gain valuable skills in your chosen area of business.
In your first year you’ll develop a depth of business knowledge and skills required for any commercial context. This includes skills in management, leadership, accounting, marketing, HR, law, economics and sustainability, as well as knowledge of Treaty of Waitangi/Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
Then in your second year you’ll choose a specialisation to suit your desired career. You can also choose a second specialisation, five elective courses or go on a student exchange programme (See your specialisations in the Pathway tab).
Your final year of study involves more complex critical and strategic thinking skills. You’ll do a work placement and put your learning to the test. Through a practical project with a real-world organisation, you’ll address a business problem or advance a business opportunity for that organisation. On successful completion, you’ll have real-life work experience to add to your CV.
Flexible study options and custom degree paths
Flexibility has been built into this degree, allowing you to not only study part-time, full-time and/or in the evenings, but to also choose two specialisations at no extra cost and without additional time. Alternatively, you can personalise your degree by including up to five elective courses from any subject of your choosing or pathway from the New Zealand Diploma in Business and complete the degree in just two years (full-time).
Fees for 2026
University Entrance as specified by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA)
Or New Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment Pathways (Level 4) Open Pathway
Or a relevant qualification at Level 4 or above listed on the New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework.
If you have undertaken examinations other than NCEA (e.g. International Baccalaureate, Cambridge Examination), Ara will assess your qualification for academic entry equivalency.
Still want to study but don't meet the Academic Requirements?
International applicants and applicants under 20 years old at the start of the semester in which their study will commence, who do not meet the stardard admission requirements stated above may apply for discretionary admission.
- To apply for discretionary admission you need to demonstrate readiness for study at the level of this programme.
Domestic Applicants over 20 years old at the start of the semester in which their study will commence, who do not meet the stardard admission requirements stated above may apply for special admission.
- To apply for special admission you need to demonstrate readiness for study at the level of this programme.
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
Applicants who meet the entry requirements will be accepted into the programme in the order that completed applications are received.
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 moreCareer opportunities
A business qualification enables you to work in a variety of industries and roles. Depending on the specialisation, career avenues include: accountancy, business analysis, project management, change management, event management, hospitality management, human resources, health and safety, marketing and sales, operations and production management, strategic management, supply chain and logistics management, to name a few.
Study pathways
In your second year you’ll choose a specialisation to suit your desired career. You can also choose a second specialisation, five elective courses or go on a student exchange programme.
- Business Transformation and Strategy
- Event Management
- Hotel and Tourism Management
- Human Resource Management
- Operations and Product Management
- Marketing and Sales
- Supply Chain Logistics
- Project Management
Ara offers a range of graduate diplomas in a variety of business specialisations. Alternatively, you could pathway to a Masters qualification.
Recommended school subjects
- English
- Mathematics
- Computing/ICT
- Economics
Bachelor of Applied Management
Gain specialist skills to make your mark in business.
| Information | |
|---|---|
| Type | Degree |
| Code | CH3988 |
| Next starts | July 2026 |
| May be available for Study Visa? | Yes |
| International application close date | 22 January for February start, 23 June for July start |
| Credits | 360 |
| Level | 7 |
| Additional Equipment/Fees | Advised on enrolment |
| May be eligible for Studylink? | Yes |
| Available Part time | Yes |
| Reference | CH3988-GENR |
Fees for 2026
With an internationally-recognised Ara qualification, the world is your oyster. Our graduates can be found working and making a difference across the globe…
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 moreDocuments
- Admission & Enrolment Form PDF, 425 KB
- International Application Form PDF, 357 KB
Area of Interest
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