Programme details

Master of Indigenous Studies – MIndS

Expand your understanding of Māori and Pacific issues within a global indigenous context by pursuing a Master of Indigenous Studies at Victoria University of Wellington.

Course description

The Master of Indigenous Studies places Māori and Pacific cultures and histories within the broader global context of indigenous colonial and post-colonial experiences, cultural rights, and self-determination.

Advance your undergraduate degree in Māori Studies, Pacific Studies, or Education, or obtain a qualification that supports your career in aiding Māori and indigenous communities locally or internationally.

You will learn to engage in persuasive and sophisticated debates on indigenous issues in a culturally appropriate and respectful manner. Delve into indigenous perspectives on sustainable development, resource management, governance, language, education, economics, and science.

Enhance your understanding of the ethical responsibilities in indigenous research, and develop the ability to conceptualize and articulate your knowledge of indigenous political and cultural relationships.

Immigration benefits

This course may qualify for the following visa rights:
In-study work rights
Partner visitor rights
Partner work rights
Post-study work rights

This course qualifies for 5 points if applying for residency under the Skilled Migrant Category.

Career Prospects

As New Zealand’s Crown-Māori relations enter a new phase, there is an increasing demand for individuals with a profound understanding of mātauranga Māori throughout the New Zealand government.

Armed with a solid grasp of Aotearoa’s political landscape and a deep knowledge of the shared challenges of other indigenous peoples, you will be well-prepared for roles in government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and diplomatic bodies, both domestically and internationally.

Alternatively, you can leverage your expertise within the education system to promote tino rangatiratanga (self-determination) in New Zealand schools.

Entry requirements

– A Bachelor’s degree with at least a B average or equivalent in a relevant subject
– To be accepted by the programme director as capable of completing the proposed course of study.

EL requirement (any one of the following)
– IELTS (Academic): Minimum overall score of 6.5, with no sub-score below 6.0
– TOEFL (Internet-based test): Minimum score of 90, with at least 20 in writing
– Pearson Test of English: Minimum score of 58, with a ‘Communicative’ score of no less than 50
– EAP: Minimum final scores of 4, 4, 5, 5
– Cambridge English Qualifications: C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency with a score of 176 or higher, with each skill score no less than 169
– New Zealand Certificates in English Language (NZCEL): Level 5 (Academic)
– NZAPA: English New Zealand Accredited Pathway Assessment Level 3, with no skill lower than Level 2