Behind all of the martial arts there is a lot of history and myth. Most of this is lost to many of the students of the various arts practiced in New Zealand. In most cases, these are not even thought about. Then there is the true enthusiast, with a quest for knowledge on all that is the mystery of the "Arts of the Orient". These are the students ( Black Belt holders as well as new comers ) who take pride in reading up on the various styles and stories that surround them. They do this with a passion.
Now it is possible to be rewarded for doing this study. WIMAF-NZ offers three levels of recognition for your diligence. These are purely academic studies and are none style specific and require no technique training at all. The three courses are:
'Certificate in Martial Studies ', this is open to everyone and is a 12 assignment course covering different disciplines of martial art, the first being Karate.
The student researches all they can by reading books, web pages etc. and submits a minimum of 4 -5 page outline of what they have learnt about the art for that assignment. This is sent in for marking and returned with comments. If rejected the assignment must be re submitted after following suggestions from the tutor on how to improve. When the assignment meets the standard requirement a mark is assigned to it and the next assignment art is given.
'Diploma in Martial Studies', this is open to those who have completed the certificate course. This is a 6 assignment course that entails researching the five main countries where martial arts developed, outlining what arts emerged from these countries. The 6th assignment is on weapons of the martial arts. This course follows the same format as for the certificate.
'Masters Degree in Martial Studies', this is open to those who have completed the certificate and diploma courses, and hold a 4th Dan rank or above. This is a 1 assignment course where the student submits a 15 page essay on the martial art they themselves are involved in.
These courses are not restricted to New Zealand but are available internationally. WIMAF-NZ already has interest from America, Denmark, Germany, Canada and Nepal with martial artists ready to register.
It is time to get recognition for your academic passion for the arts. The courses cost $120 each for non WIMAF-NZ members and $60 for members, so are not cost restrictive. They are correspondence based and the students set their own pace, with no limitations to finish times.
If you are interested please feel free to contact me, via [email protected]
