Disciplinary Foundation Papers (2023)

All of our undergraduate qualifications offer a foundational element to give students a firm grounding in their chosen discipline early on. This foundational element may be a single paper, or it may be a collection of papers. Completing this foundational element is compulsory.

The disciplinary foundation papers are listed here by Division. However, the appropriate paper or papers will depend on which qualification and subjects you are studying. For course planning information, please see a Student Advisor in your Division of study.


On this page


  • Division of Arts, Law, Psychology and Social Sciences

    If you are taking a Bachelor of Arts you should include any one of: ARTSC101, ARTSC103, ARTSC105, ENSLA103 or ENSLA202.

    If you are taking a Bachelor of Environmental Planning you should include any one of: ARTSC101, ARTSC103, ARTSC105, ARTSC106, or ENSLA103.

    If you are taking a Bachelor of Laws or a Bachelor of Laws with Honours you will need to include LEGAL103 and LEGAL104.

    If you are taking a Bachelor of Music you should include any one of: ARTSC101, ARTSC103, ARTSC105 or ENSLA103.

    If you are taking a Bachelor of Social Sciences you should include any one of: ARTSC101, ARTSC103, ARTSC106, ENSLA103 or ENSLA202.

    If you are taking a Bachelor of Social Work you will need to include PHILO103.

  • Division of Education

    If you are taking a Bachelor of Social Sciences (studying with the Division of Education) you may include any one of: ARTSC101, ARTSC103, ARTSC106 or ENSLA103.

    If you are taking a Bachelor of Teaching you will need TEACH100, TEACH101, TEEDU100, TEEDU101 and TEEDU102.

    If you are taking Te Ara Poutama Toitū Te Reo you will need TOITU100, TOITU101, TOITU102, PUTOI100 and PUTOI101.

  • Division of Health, Engineering, Computing and Science

    If you are taking a Bachelor of Climate Change you will need to take ARTSC106 and CLIMT101.

    If you are taking a Bachelor of Computing and Mathematical Sciences with Honours or a Bachelor of Design you will need to include CSMAX170.

    If you are taking a Bachelor of Engineering with Honours you will need to take ENGEN112 and ENGEN180.

    If you are taking a Bachelor of Health you will need to include HELTH101.

    If you are taking a Bachelor of Health, Sport and Human Performance you will need to include HSHUP101.

    If you are taking a Bachelor of Science or a Bachelor of Science (Technology) with the School of Computing and Mathematical Sciences, you will need to include CSMAX170.

    If you are taking a Bachelor of Science with the School of Science, you will need to include 45 points from APHYS111, AQCUL101, BIOEB101, BIOEB102, BIOMD101, BIOMO101, CHEMY100, CHEMY101, CHEMY102, CLIMT101, EARTH101, EARTH102, ENGEN111, ENGEN112, ENGEN180, ENVSC101, MARIN101 or PHYSC100.

    If you are taking a Bachelor of Science (Technology) with the School of Science, you will need to include 45 points from APHYS111, BIOEB101, BIOEB102, BIOMD101, BIOMO101, CHEMY100, CHEMY101, CHEMY102, CLIMT101, EARTH101, EARTH102, ENGEN111, ENGEN112, ENGEN180, ENVSC101 or PHYSC100.

  • Division of Management

    If you are studying a Bachelor of Business or a Bachelor of Management Studies with Honours you will need to include 75 points from ACCTN101, ECONS101, FINAN101, MGSYS101, MRKTG101 or STMGT101.

  • Faculty of Māori and Indigenous Studies

    If you are taking a Bachelor of Arts or a Bachelor of Social Sciences (studying with Te Pua Wānanga ki te Ao - Faculty of Māori and Indigenous Studies) you will need to include MAORI100.

  • 100 Level

    Code Paper Title Points Occurrence / Location
    ACCTN101Accounting for Management15.023A (Hamilton), 23B (Hamilton), 23B (Hamilton Waikato College), 23B (Tauranga), 23VA (National Economics University, Vietnam) & 23X (Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou China)
    This paper focuses on the analysis and use of financial and non-financial information by internal and external stakeholders to make informed business decisions.
    APHYS111Physics in Context - Ahupūngao o te Ao15.023A (Hamilton)
    This is an introductory paper in physics for students who have not studied physics or mathematics at NCEA level 2 or 3. It is intended to support a major in other science subjects. Emphasis is placed on describing everyday physics concepts using correct terminology. Examples of physics in action are drawn from many science areas. T...
    AQCUL101Introduction to Aquaculture - Ahumoana15.023A (Tauranga)
    This paper has been designed to introduce you to important aspects of the fastest growing food-producing sector in the world. Aquaculture is one of the most efficient food production systems and now provides over 50% of the world's consumed fish. You will learn about the wide range of farmed aquatic organisms from algae to fish. We...
    ARTSC103Rights and Reason15.023A (Hamilton), 23A (Tauranga) & 23B (Hamilton)
    Students will develop critical thinking skills by reasoning about human rights. Issues include rights-protection in difficult circumstances, who bears responsibility for protecting human rights, and armed intervention and torture in the name of human rights.
    ARTSC105Language in Context15.023B (Online)
    Language in Context is an essential paper for students of a broad range of disciplines where language and communication are a focus. Students are given the tools to examine how human language reflects our histories, our social selves, and our immediate physical contexts. We observe how language is used to reinvent and to reinforce ...
    ARTSC106Critical Social Science Research: The Crisis of Climate Change15.023B (Hamilton) & 23B (Online)
    This paper is an introduction to critical social science research in Aotearoa New Zealand. It adopts an interdisciplinary approach spanning Indigenous and Feminist studies, political science and sociology, and is organised around the case study of climate change.
    BIOEB101Concepts of Biology - Ngā Huatau o te Koiora15.023A (Hamilton)
    An introduction to the foundations of biology, including the structure and functioning of cells, evolution, the origins and diversity of life, and a tour of the major forms of life and their defining characteristics. He whakataki tenei pepa i nga matapono o te koiora taea noatia te hanganga me nga whainga o te putau, o te kuneroa...
    BIOEB102Introduction to Ecology and Biodiversity - Mātai Hauropi a Kanorau Koiora15.023B (Hamilton) & 23B (Tauranga)
    An introduction to the principles of ecology and biodiversity. Topics include population, community and ecosystem ecology, conservation biology, and the structure, functioning and environmental responses of animals and plants. Examples will include New Zealand ecosystems and biota. He whakataki tenei pepa i nga matapono o te matai ...
    BIOMO101Introduction to Molecular and Cellular Biology - Mātai Pūtau a Mātai Rāpoi Ngota Koiora15.023B (Hamilton)
    An introduction to the central concepts of Molecular and Cellular Biology, including the ultrastructure and function of cells, the biochemical processes involved, and the role of DNA in cellular function, inheritance and evolution. He whakataki tenei pepa i nga aria pokapu o te Matai Putau, Matai Rapoi hoki, tae atu ana ki te ngota...
    CHEMY100Chemistry in Context - Matū o te Ao15.023A (Hamilton) & 23A (Tauranga)
    This paper covers a broad range of chemical concepts that are fundamental to the sciences and engineering. A strong emphasis is made to teach concepts through real-life examples from the world around us. He toro na tenei pepa i nga tumomo tuapapa o te matai matu kei te tuapapa o nga horopaki putaiao, pukaha hoki He kaha hangai te ...
    CHEMY101Structure and Spectroscopy - Tūramaramatia i ngā Hanganga15.023A (Hamilton) & 23C (Hamilton)
    A theoretical and practical course covering aspects of analytical and inorganic chemistry. This course is required for the chemistry major. He pepa tirotiro i nga tuahua o te wetewete i te matauranga matuwaro me tona kore paraumu, he pepa matua o roto o te tohu matuora.
    CHEMY102Chemical Reactivity - Tauhohehohe Matū15.023B (Hamilton)
    A theoretical and practical course covering aspects of physical and organic chemistry. This course is required for the chemistry major. He pepa a-aria, a-mahinga hoki hei tirotiro i nga tuahuaranga o te matuora a-kikokiko, a-paraumu hoki He pepa matua o roto o te tohu matuora.
    CLIMT101Introduction to Climate Change Science - Pūtaiao Huringa Āhuarangi15.023A (Hamilton), 23A (Online), 23A (Tauranga) & 23X (Secondary School - Unistart)
    An overview of the scientific basis of climate change with emphasis on understanding climate change mitigation and adaptation. He tirohanga whanui no tenei pepa i te tuapapa o te putaiao o te huringa ahuarangi. He nui te aro ki te whakamauru me te takatu o te huringa ahuarangi.
    CSMAX170Foundations in Computing and Mathematical Sciences15.023A (Hamilton) & 23A (Tauranga)
    The objective of this paper is to provide students with the academic foundations for computing and mathematical sciences. The paper will cover the following areas: -Effective academic reasoning and communication -Information literacy and research skills -Academic integrity -Techniques and tools in the computing and mathematical sci...
    EARTH101Introduction to Earth System Sciences - Pūtaiao Pūnaha Whenua15.023A (Hamilton) & 23A (Tauranga)
    A lecture and laboratory paper that explores the interacting processes that affect the surface of the Earth, producing landforms and resources, with a focus on physical processes. Topics covered include coastal processes and hazards; climate change; weathering; erosion and mass movement; soil formation; the hydrological cycle; rive...
    EARTH102Discovering Planet Earth - Tūhuratia Papatūānuku15.023B (Hamilton)
    This paper explores the Earth's interior and its dynamic interaction with the crust, including: the major rocks and minerals; interpreting the rock record and geologic maps; the geological time scale and fossils; plate tectonics; volcanism; earthquakes. He tuhura no tenei pepa i te kopu o Papatuanuku me tona pahekoheko hihiri i te ...
    ECONS101Economics for Business and Management15.023A (Hamilton), 23A (Hamilton Waikato College), 23A (Secondary School - Unistart), 23A (Tauranga), 23B (Hamilton), 23VA (National Economics University, Vietnam) & 23X (Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou China)
    This paper offers insights into the behaviour of consumers, firms and the government within the economy, giving students skills in analysing and predicting the actions of individuals and businesses.
    ENGEN111Electricity for Engineers15.023B (Hamilton), 23B (Tauranga) & 23X (Hamilton)
    Concepts underlying electricity such as current, voltage and power will be introduced, and apply these concepts to analyse electrical energy systems.
    ENGEN112Materials Science and Engineering15.023A (Hamilton) & 23A (Tauranga)
    Introduction to engineering materials (metals, ceramics, polymers, composites, semiconductors and biomaterials) and their atomic structure and mechanical properties. Includes; elastic and plastic deformation, fracture mechanisms, failure in service, iron-carbon phase diagram, redox reactions in corrosion, production of polymers, ce...
    ENGEN170Engineering and Society15.023A (Hamilton) & 23A (Tauranga)
    Introduction to the role of engineering in society with a focus on sustainable development, data analysis, holistic systems thinking, and the future of work within a global and New Zealand context including an introduction to the Treaty of Waitangi.
    ENGEN180Foundations of Engineering15.023B (Hamilton) & 23B (Tauranga)
    Introduction to the engineering design process and computer aided design, fundamental principles of engineering analysis, open ended problem solving, engineering economics and the skills of a successful engineer. Includes a design-build-test experience.
    ENSLA103English as an Additional Language: Effective Academic Writing15.023A (Hamilton) & 23B (Hamilton)
    This paper covers research, approaches to and techniques for different writing genres, analysis of English text and discourse, and an understanding of issues in academic integrity. This paper is intended for students with English is an additional language.
    ENVSC101Environmental Science - Pūtaiao Taiao15.023B (Hamilton) & 23B (Tauranga)
    A scientific study of the interaction between humans and the environment including climate change, utilisation and exploitation of natural resources and the effects of human activities on biological, chemical and physical processes that form resources and control ecosystems. Ko te whainga matua o tenei pepa putaiao taiao ki te whak...
    FINAN101Introduction to Finance15.023A (Hamilton), 23A (Hamilton Waikato College), 23B (Hamilton), 23B (Tauranga), 23H (Hamilton), 23VB (National Economics University, Vietnam) & 23X (Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou China)
    This paper introduces the three core areas of finance - financial management, investments, and capital markets and institutions. The paper also examines applications of corporate finance concepts to personal finance.
    HELTH101Hauora: Thinking about Health15.023A (Hamilton)
    Health is a multi-disciplinary field of study that draws on multiple cultural perspectives. This paper introduces students to the foundational academic skills required for success within the BHealth, through the lens of hauora, health and wellbeing.
    HSHUP101Foundations of Health, Sport and Human Performance15.023A (Hamilton) & 23A (Tauranga)
    Health, sport and human performance is an interdisciplinary field of study. This paper introduces students to the foundational academic skills required for success within the Health, Sport and Human Performance degree.
    LEGAL103Legal Method A15.023A (Hamilton) & 23A (Tauranga)
    This paper introduces students to the study and practice of law in New Zealand. With a particular focus on criminal law, the paper will teach you the basics of legal methods, including legal research, reasoning, opinion writing, statutory interpretation and case analysis. With a particular focus on crimes, this paper will teach the...
    LEGAL104Legal Method B15.023B (Hamilton) & 23B (Tauranga)
    Using the law of contract by way of illustration, this paper teaches students crucial approaches to statutory interpretation and case analysis, and introduces students to the key legal skill of mooting. With a particular focus on contracts, this paper will teach students essential skills in Legal Method, including case analysis, st...
    MAORI100Kōkiri: Academic Skills for Indigenous Studies15.023A (Hamilton) & 23A (Online)
    This paper introduces academic skills that are directly useful for the rest of your university studies but will also provide a foundation for critical thinking and clear communication beyond the university. We focus on academic conventions in relation to Indigenous Studies: understanding the Indigenous and colonial contexts of tert...
    MARIN101Marine Biodiversity - Rerenga Rauropi Taimoana15.023B (Tauranga)
    This paper provides an introduction to marine ecosystems, the form and function of key marine taxa, the identification of New Zealand marine plants & animals (both indigenous & introduced), and the concepts of Matauranga and biodiversity, as they apply to the coastal marine environment. He whakataki no tenei pepa i te rauropi taimo...
    MGSYS101Digital Business and Supply Chain Management15.023A (Hamilton), 23A (Hamilton Waikato College), 23A (Tauranga), 23B (Hamilton), 23VA (Internet National Economics University, Vietnam) & 23X (Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou China)
    This paper explores the dual concepts of digital business and supply chain management. The interactive lectures help in developing critical thinking skills and highlight many topical case studies.
    MRKTG101Fundamentals of Successful Marketing15.023A (Hamilton), 23A (Online), 23A (Tauranga), 23B (Hamilton), 23B (Hamilton Waikato College), 23B (Online), 23G (Hamilton), 23VB (National Economics University, Vietnam) & 23X (Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou China)
    This paper focuses on the role of Marketing in business, introducing students to marketing research, consumer behaviour, and analysis, as essential tools for developing brand positioning strategies that create value.
    PHILO103Critical Thinking15.023A (Online) & 23G (Online)
    This paper helps students to engage critically with the sorts of arguments encountered both inside and outside the University.
    STMGT101Introduction to Management15.023A (Hamilton), 23B (Hamilton), 23B (Tauranga), 23VA (National Economics University, Vietnam) & 23X (Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou China)
    Explores the world of management in organisations, the roles of managers and how they strategise, plan, organise, and motivate staff to achieve goals.
    TEACH101Ko te Reo me ngā Tikanga o ngā kura15.023X (Hamilton), 23X (Online) & 23X (Tauranga)
    This paper introduces students to the skills, attitudes and values required of a teacher in Aotearoa New Zealand. It explores professional and ethical requirements for teachers and commitment to the Treaty of Waitangi.
    TEEDU100Concepts of Learning and Teaching 115.023B (Hamilton), 23B (Tauranga), 23J (Online) & 23X (Online)
    In this paper, students will examine theories of learning, working with diverse learners and a range of innovative teaching practices.
    TEEDU101The Aotearoa New Zealand Educational Context15.023B (Hamilton), 23B (Tauranga) & 23X (Online)
    This paper examines the educational policies, ideas and processes shaping educational contexts in Aotearoa New Zealand.
    TEEDU102Learning and Development Across the Lifespan15.023A (Hamilton), 23A (Tauranga) & 23X (Online)
    This paper focuses on understanding and enhancing human development through an exploration of biological, psychological, social and cultural factors that influence patterns of development and learning over the lifespan.
  • 200 Level

    Code Paper Title Points Occurrence / Location
    ENSLA202English as an Additional Language: Effective Academic Speaking15.023B (Hamilton)
    This paper provides students with skills needed to understand and question academic texts. It covers skills in reading and text inquiry and techniques in voicing opinions and questioning views. This paper is intended for students for whom English is an additional Language.

2023 Catalogue of Papers information current as of : 7 December 2023 9:06am

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