Programme details

Master of Political Science – MPols

Explore the field of political science more thoroughly and enhance your career prospects in the broader realm of politics and public affairs.

Course description

Accelerate your career with a 12-month Master of Political Science, which provides advanced expertise without requiring an Honours degree. Alternatively, consider the shorter, coursework-only Postgraduate Diploma in Political Science.

Study politics at the heart of New Zealand’s capital city for a firsthand view of the political process. Gain a global perspective by comparing and contrasting New Zealand’s political landscape with that of other countries. You can also include courses from related fields such as international relations, strategic studies, and public policy.

Leverage the program’s connections locally and internationally. Opportunities include applying for the University’s prestigious Parliamentary Internship, as well as participating in the biennial China Field Study and Japan Field Study.

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

A Master’s in Political Science opens doors to various career opportunities, including roles such as Policy Analyst, Political Consultant, Legislative Assistant, Public Affairs Specialist, Diplomatic Officer, International Relations Advisor, Political Risk Analyst, and Government Relations Manager.

Entry requirements

Academic
– A bachelor’s degree or a Graduate diploma in Political Science, International Relations or Public Policy, with at least a B grade average in 60 points of 300-level courses in the majoring subject or or relevant area of study
– To be accepted by the programme coordinator as capable of proceeding with 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