Program Overview
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.
Hamilton NZ, New Zealand
12 Months
NZ$ 56,670
IELTS: 6.5 TOEFL: 90
Choose a main subject
- Anthropology
- Economics
- Education and Society
- Geography
- History
- Human Development
- Māori and Indigenous Studies
- Pacific and Indigenous Studies
- Philosophy
- Political Science
- Population Studies and Demography
- Psychology
- Public Policy
- Social Policy
- Sociology
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).
The cost of studying at University of Waikato varies largely depending on the type of university and the degree chosen. More often than not, humanities, arts, and education courses are less expensive than degrees in medical, engineering, or management. Furthermore, students who choose to study at the postgraduate level typically pay higher tuition fees, which again vary depending on the programme chosen.
Most universities provide scholarships or financial aid to students in order to help them offset their tuition costs. Students should be aware that additional course fees and incidental expenses may not be included in tuition. On average, international students can expect to pay NZ$56,670 annually, to study in University of Waikato.
- Clinical or Community Psychologist
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- Economist
- Educator (Primary, Secondary or Tertiary Sector)
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- Hazards and Emergency Management Officer
- Human Resources Advisor
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- Journalist
- Policy Analyst
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- Research Executive
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- Union Organiser