Auckland University of Technology

What you'll study

The Bachelor of Business Honours combines advanced coursework with an independent research project (honours thesis). Students typically study a core research methods sequence that covers quantitative and qualitative techniques, research design, ethics and data analysis, alongside a major supervised research project. Coursework options allow concentration in a business discipline such as accounting, finance, marketing, management, human resource management, information systems or economics, so you can align the year with your undergraduate specialism.

• Research methods and design: advanced qualitative and quantitative methods, applied statistics and research ethics.
• Honours project/thesis: a supervised piece of original research that demonstrates your ability to apply theory and methods to a business problem.
• Advanced discipline electives: seminars and advanced topics in areas such as strategic management, corporate finance, marketing strategy, organisational behaviour, and data analytics.
• Professional development: academic writing, presentation skills and training in publishing and research communication.

The programme is usually delivered over one academic year full-time, or the equivalent part-time, with a combination of seminars, workshops, supervision meetings and independent research. Assessment commonly includes essays, case analyses, presentations, exams and the honours thesis.

Entry requirements

To enter the Bachelor of Business Honours you normally need a completed bachelor degree in business or a closely related discipline from a recognised tertiary institution, with a strong academic record in the relevant subject area. Applicants are expected to have demonstrated competence in research or quantitative methods during their undergraduate study.

• Academic background: an undergraduate degree in business or a related field with evidence of good academic performance in final-year papers.
• Supporting documentation: academic transcripts, a CV, and sometimes a brief research statement or proposal outlining intended honours topics and supervisory needs.
• English language: applicants whose prior study was not in English will need to provide evidence of English proficiency to the University’s accepted standard.
• Admission process: selection may include review by an honours coordinator and assignment of a suitable supervisor. Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission where places are limited.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Bachelor of Business Honours are prepared for a range of professional and academic pathways. The programme strengthens analytical, research and communication skills sought by employers and is a useful bridge to postgraduate study.

• Management and leadership roles in private and public sector organisations
• Business analyst, data analyst or market research roles that require advanced analytical capability
• Consulting positions in strategy, human resources, finance or operations
• Policy analyst or advisory roles in government and non-government organisations
• Research assistantships and competitive entry to postgraduate programmes (Master’s and PhD) for those pursuing an academic or research career

Why study at Auckland University of Technology

AUT is an applied, research-active university located in New Zealand’s largest city, offering strong links to industry and practical learning opportunities. The business faculty combines academic expertise with practitioner experience, providing supervision for honours research across a wide range of contemporary business topics. Students benefit from modern facilities, access to industry networks in Auckland, and dedicated student support services including career development, academic writing and research training.

For students who want a focused, research-led honours year that enhances employability or prepares for higher degrees, the Bachelor of Business Honours at AUT provides a flexible, discipline-specific pathway with opportunities to engage with real business problems and scholarly research.