Programme details

Master of Science by coursework and thesis – MSc

Enhance your Bachelor's degree with advanced scientific study at the Master's level and position yourself as a leader in your field.

Course description

Earn a globally recognized degree and make significant contributions to your field with a Master of Science (MSc). This program will enhance your technical, laboratory, and academic writing skills, preparing you for a successful career in science.

The MSc program can be completed in two to two and a half years of full-time study or up to four years part-time.

– First Year: Engage in coursework related to your specialized subject area.
– Research Phase: Conduct supervised, in-depth research for 12–15 months, culminating in a thesis. You may also have opportunities to publish in peer-reviewed journals during your studies.

To enroll in the MSc program, you need a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field with a B+ average or higher in your subject area. Candidates with appropriate work or other experience may also qualify for entry.

Specialisations

Artificial Intelligence
Biotechnology
Cell and Molecular Bioscience
Chemistry
Cognitive and Behavioural Neuroscience
Computer Graphics (not offered in 2025)
Computer Science
Cross-Cultural Psychology
Data Science
Development Studies
Ecological Restoration
Ecology and Biodiversity
Electronic and Computer Systems
Environmental Science
Forensic Psychology
Geography
Geology
Geophysics
Marine Biology
Mathematics
Molecular Microbiology
Physics
Psychology
Renewable Energy Systems
Science in Society
Statistics

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

Graduating with a Master of Science (MSc) opens the door to a variety of exciting career prospects. You can pursue roles such as Research Scientist, Data Analyst, Environmental Consultant, Laboratory Manager, Clinical Research Coordinator, Biotechnologist, Science Communicator, Quality Assurance Specialist, and University Lecturer. Additionally, opportunities exist in specialized fields such as Biomedical Engineer, Epidemiologist, Renewable Energy Specialist, and Regulatory Affairs Manager. These positions span across various sectors, including academia, healthcare, environmental organizations, industry, and government agencies, offering a diverse range of professional pathways.

Entry requirements

Academic Requirement

– A bachelor’s degree or relevant graduate or postgraduate diploma with a grade average of at least B+
– To have met the prerequisites for the subject you wish to study (see subject section below)
– To be accepted by the head of the school 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