Programme details

Master of Philosophy, Politics and Economics – MPPE

Combine the disciplines of philosophy, politics, and economics in this unique Master's degree, preparing you for a career driving change in politics, government, or related fields.

Course description

In today’s increasingly complex and unpredictable world, we need more thinkers who can grasp the dynamics of politics and society—individuals capable of creating stronger and more effective government.

The one-year, 180-point Master of Philosophy, Politics and Economics (MPPE) program combines three complementary disciplines, offering a broad understanding of the world and social decision-making. As the only postgraduate program of its kind in New Zealand, it provides a head start for careers in politics, government, or public service.

Studying philosophy will enhance your logical reasoning and ethical knowledge. Economics will teach you the motivations behind decisions made by individuals and organizations and their broader impacts. Politics will provide insight into political institutions and processes and their societal effects. This interdisciplinary approach equips you with practical and theoretical skills highly relevant to government roles.

Through your Master’s study, you will develop strong oral and written communication abilities and learn to apply critical and reflective thinking, logic, and persuasion to solve problems.

Immigration benefits

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

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

Career Prospects

Graduates of the Master of Philosophy, Politics and Economics (MPPE) are well-prepared for a wide range of career opportunities. In government, they can excel as Policy Analysts, crafting policies that address complex social issues. They can also become Public Affairs Consultants, advising on the political and social implications of business decisions.

In the realm of politics, MPPE graduates can pursue careers as Political Advisors, providing strategic advice to politicians and political parties. They may also work as Legislative Assistants, helping draft and analyze legislation.

The private sector offers roles such as Economic Analysts, where they evaluate economic data to inform business strategies. They can also become Management Consultants, utilizing their multidisciplinary knowledge to improve organizational performance.

Additionally, MPPE graduates can find opportunities in academia and research as Research Fellows, conducting studies that influence public policy. They can also work in international organizations as Policy Officers, developing and implementing global initiatives.

The combination of philosophy, politics, and economics equips graduates with the analytical and practical skills needed for these diverse and impactful career paths.

Entry requirements

Academic requirement
– A bachelor’s degree with a B average or better
– To have completed at least 40 points at 300 level in Economics, International Relations, Philosophy, Political Science or Public Policy
– To be accepted by the programme director as being 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