Master of Social Sciences

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 an 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.

Industry Connections

During your studies, you'll be supervised by well-connected Faculty members who have networks with people working in a wide range of sectors, from business to government.

These people, including representatives from local and central government and tribal authorities, provide input into the different subject areas. Members of community groups, business organisations and industrial and professional groups do the same – they provide valuable support and input. The subject area experts themselves provide consultancy services that the community in general needs, so there are broader links and connections made through this sharing of knowledge.

Career opportunities

• Clinical or Community Psychologist
• Coastal Resource Officer
• Communications Coordinator
• Community Health Administrator
• Counsellor
• Demographer
• Economist
• Educator (Primary, Secondary or Tertiary Sector)
• Environmental Planner
• Hazards and Emergency Management Officer
• Human Resources Advisor
• Industrial Relations Advocate
• Journalist
• Policy Analyst
• PR Consultant
• Research Executive
• Social Services Manager
• Tourism Consultant
• Union Organiser

Main Subject

• Anthropology
• Economics
• Education and Society
• Geography
• History
• Human Development
• Labour Studies
• Māori Cultural Studies/Tikanga Māori
• Philosophy
• Political Science
• Population Studies and Demography
• Psychology
• Public Policy
• Social Policy
• Sociology
• Women's and Gender Studies

Graduate study options

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Admission and enrolment

Following the successful completion of the BSocSc or BSocSc(Hons), you may apply for the Master of Social Sciences degree. The MSocSc is awarded 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 Chair of School or Programme Convenor of the main subject or programme and agreement of the Dean of Arts and Social Sciences (or nominee).