The Postgraduate Diploma in Arts Subjects (PGDipArts) requires two semesters of full-time, or its equivalent in part-time, study. It entails a structured programme of postgraduate coursework and, in some instances, a piece of supervised research that counts for one or two of the required papers. The normal admission requirement is a completed Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in the major subject(s) of the proposed programme. The Diploma can be awarded in any of the subjects listed below, although a candidate may be permitted to study combinations of these. The primary aim of the study programme is to expose a candidate to advanced knowledge and skills in the major subject of the Bachelor's degree.

Graduates are employed in administration, business, education, government, industry and journalism where their advanced knowledge of an academic area, ability to solve problems, research and writing skills are valued. It is also a recognised qualification for admission as a candidate for the Master of Arts (MA) and, if a dissertation is included, the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).