Master of Social Sciences
Studying for a Master of Social Sciences at Waikato challenges you to take your understanding of theoretical subject matter to an advanced level.
180 points, 1-1.5 years
Hamilton
Trimester A (February) and Trimester B (July).
Why study the Master of Social Sciences?
A Master of Social Sciences (MSocSc) builds on the Bachelors or Honours qualification you've already gained. When studying for your MSocSc, you'll focus on your preferred Social Science subject area and you'll immerse yourself in a high-level programme of study. You'll learn the latest research techniques and be updated on recent developments in knowledge relating to your chosen field.
You'll be preparing for a dissertation or thesis, so will be conducting a substantial amount of your own independent research. If you think you may want to complete a doctorate level qualification later on, completing a MSocSc prepares you for that next level of academic study.
As you grow your knowledge of your chosen subject area, you'll be refining your intellectual skills, particularly your ability to think critically, problem solve and analyse. This will enable you to prepare for leadership roles in fields related to your subject area.
Career Opportunities
- Coastal Resource Officer
- Counsellor
- Economist
- Hazards and Emergency Management Officer
- Industrial Relations Advocate
- Journalist
- Policy Analyst
- Research Executive
- Social Services Manager
180 points, 1-1.5 years
Hamilton
Trimester A (February) and Trimester B (July).
Degree information
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Subjects Choose a subject
Browse available subjects and choose one for more information.
Browse MSocSc subjects Browse available subjects and choose one for more information
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Entry Requirements Following the successful completion of the BSocSc or BSocSc(Hons) you may apply for the Master of Social Sciences degree. The MSocSc is awarded with classes of honours.
To be admitted to the MSocSc, you must have completed a Bachelor of Social Sciences (or equivalent) or a Bachelor of Social Sciences with Honours (or equivalent) in the same subject and must have achieved a satisfactory grade average – normally a B average or better.
You will also need to have appropriate supervision arranged.
Admission criteria may vary so please consult the appropriate programme Graduate Adviser for their specific criteria. Admission to the MSocSc requires the agreement of the Head of School or Programme Convenor of the main subject or programme and agreement of the Dean (or nominee).
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Fees and scholarships Estimated fees
$7,626 - $9,292 per year
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Fees free
You may be eligible for fees-free study in your first year.
Fees-free for new students -
Scholarships
Visit our Scholarship finder for more information about possible scholarships.
Find a scholarship
Relevant as of 01 May 2024.
All amounts are in New Zealand Dollars (NZD). Tuition fees shown are indicative only and may change. There are additional fees and charges related to enrolment. Please see the Table of Fees and Charges for more information. You will be sent an enrolment agreement which will confirm your fees.
Estimated fees
$53,855 - $61,290 (180 points) per year
-
Scholarships
Visit our Scholarship finder for more information about possible scholarships.
Find a scholarship
Relevant as of 01 May 2024.
All amounts are in New Zealand Dollars (NZD). Tuition fees shown are indicative only and may change. There are additional fees and charges related to enrolment. Please see the Table of Fees and Charges for more information. You will be sent an enrolment agreement which will confirm your fees.
-
Browse available subjects and choose one for more information
Following the successful completion of the BSocSc or BSocSc(Hons) you may apply for the Master of Social Sciences degree. The MSocSc is awarded with classes of honours.
To be admitted to the MSocSc, you must have completed a Bachelor of Social Sciences (or equivalent) or a Bachelor of Social Sciences with Honours (or equivalent) in the same subject and must have achieved a satisfactory grade average – normally a B average or better.
You will also need to have appropriate supervision arranged.
Admission criteria may vary so please consult the appropriate programme Graduate Adviser for their specific criteria. Admission to the MSocSc requires the agreement of the Head of School or Programme Convenor of the main subject or programme and agreement of the Dean (or nominee).
Estimated fees
$7,626 - $9,292 per year
-
Fees free
You may be eligible for fees-free study in your first year.
Fees-free for new students -
Scholarships
Visit our Scholarship finder for more information about possible scholarships.
Find a scholarship
Relevant as of 01 May 2024.
All amounts are in New Zealand Dollars (NZD). Tuition fees shown are indicative only and may change. There are additional fees and charges related to enrolment. Please see the Table of Fees and Charges for more information. You will be sent an enrolment agreement which will confirm your fees.
Estimated fees
$53,855 - $61,290 (180 points) per year
-
Scholarships
Visit our Scholarship finder for more information about possible scholarships.
Find a scholarship
Relevant as of 01 May 2024.
All amounts are in New Zealand Dollars (NZD). Tuition fees shown are indicative only and may change. There are additional fees and charges related to enrolment. Please see the Table of Fees and Charges for more information. You will be sent an enrolment agreement which will confirm your fees.
Major in Political Science
Study a Master of Social Sciences in Political Science, a highly flexible programme that will give you job opportunities from local to national government, media, education, industry, business, labour organisations and social services.
Industry Connections
During your studies, you'll be supervised by well-connected staff members who have networks with people working in a wide range of sectors, from business to government.
These people, including representatives from local and central government and tribal authorities, provide input into the different subject areas. Members of community groups, business organisations and industrial and professional groups do the same – they provide valuable support and input. The subject area experts themselves provide consultancy services that the community in general needs, so there are broader links and connections made through this sharing of knowledge.
Scholarships and prizes
Visit our Scholarship Finder for information about possible scholarships.