Qualification Regulations
Part I
These regulations are to be read in conjunction with all other Statutes and Regulations of the University including General Regulations for Postgraduate Degrees, Postgraduate Diplomas, and Postgraduate Certificates.
Part II
Admission
1. Admission to the Master of Arts requires that the candidate:
(a) meets the University admission requirements as specified;
and shall have:
(b) been awarded or qualified for a Bachelor of Arts with a major in the intended postgraduate subject with at least a B grade average across the 200-300 level specialisation courses; or equivalent; or
(c) been awarded or qualified for a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) with a subject in the intended postgraduate subject, or a Postgraduate Diploma in Arts with an endorsement in the intended postgraduate subject, or an equivalent qualification, with at least a B+ grade average across the 700-level courses for entry to the Research Pathway or a B grade average across the 700-level courses for entry to the Coursework Pathway.
2. Notwithstanding Regulation 1(b), in order to be admitted to the Psychology subject, candidates must have been awarded or qualified for a Bachelor’s degree with a major in Psychology having achieved at least a B grade average in the 300-level Psychology specialisation courses, or equivalent.
Qualification requirements
3. Candidates for the Master of Arts shall follow a parts-based programme of study totalling at least 180 credits, comprising:
(a) completion of Part One and Part Two as detailed in the Schedule for the Qualification;
(b) completion of a subject.
4. Notwithstanding Regulation 3, candidates admitted under Regulation 1(c) may apply for credit towards Part One of the qualification in accordance with the limits specified in the Recognition of Prior Learning regulations.
Specialisations
5. Candidates for the Degree of Master of Arts must complete the requirements for one subject.
6. The requirements for each subject are set out in the Schedule for the Qualification.
7. Subjects available are: Defence and Security Studies, Economics, Education, English, Geography, History, Māori Knowledge, Media Studies, Museum Studies, Philosophy, Politics and International Relations, Psychology, Second Language Teaching, Social Anthropology, Social Policy, Sociology and Spanish.
Student progression
8. For progression to Part Two in the Master of Arts (Coursework Pathway), candidates must have achieved at least a B grade average in the first 60 credits of courses completed in Part One.
9. For progression to Part Two in the Master of Arts (Research Pathway), candidates must have achieved at least a B+ grade average in the first 60 credits of courses completed in Part One.
10. Candidates who do not meet the criteria for progression to Part Two, but who have achieved at least a C grade average in the first 60 credits of courses in Part One, may transfer to the Postgraduate Diploma in Arts.
11. In cases of sufficient merit the Degree of Master of Arts may be awarded with Distinction or Merit.
Completion requirements
12. The timeframes for completion as outlined in the General Regulations for Postgraduate Degrees, Postgraduate Diplomas, and Postgraduate Certificates will apply.
13. Candidates may be graduated when they meet the Qualification and Academic requirements within the prescribed timeframes. Candidates who do not meet the requirements for progression from Part One to Part Two, or who do not meet the requirements for graduation may, subject to the approval of Academic Board, be awarded the Postgraduate Certificate in Arts or the Postgraduate Diploma in Arts should they meet the relevant Qualification requirements.
Unsatisfactory academic progress
14. The general Unsatisfactory Academic Progress regulations will apply.
Transitional provisions
15. Subject to the Maximum Time to Completion and Abandonment of Study provisions specified in the Part I regulations to the degree, candidates who commenced study towards the Defence and Security Studies subject prior to 1 January 2024 who have successfully completed 294790 may substitute this for 176702 until 31 December 2026.
16. Subject to any Maximum Time to Completion and Abandonment of Study provisions specified in the Part I regulations to the degree, candidates enrolled in the Master of Arts (Museum Studies) prior to 1 January 2025 may substitute 167890, Advanced Research Practicum if successfully completed for 167896, Research Report Museum Studies, until 31 December 2026.
Schedule for the Master of Arts
Course planning key
- Prerequisites
- Courses that need to be completed before moving onto a course at the next level. For example, a lot of 200-level courses have 100-level prerequisite courses.
- Corequisites
- Courses that must be completed at the same time as another course are known as corequisite courses.
- Restrictions
- Some courses are restricted against each other because their content is similar. This means you can only choose one of the offered courses to study and credit to your qualification.
Key terms for course planning
- Courses
- Each qualification has its own specific set of courses. Some universities call these papers. You enrol in courses after you get accepted into Massey.
- Course code
- Each course is numbered using 6 digits. The fourth number shows the level of the course. For example, in course 219206, the fourth number is a 2, so it is a 200-level course (usually studied in the second year of full-time study).
- Credits
- Each course is worth a number of credits. You combine courses (credits) to meet the total number of credits needed for your qualification.
- Specialisations
- Some qualifications let you choose what subject you'd like to specialise in. Your major or endorsement is what you will take the majority of your courses in.
Subjects
Defence and Security Studies (180 credits)
Part One: Coursework Pathway (120 credits) or Research Pathway (Between 60 and 90 credits)
Compulsory course
Course code: 176702 Advanced Social Inquiry credits 30
An advanced study of methodological issues pertinent to social research. The course is designed to assist the planning of postgraduate theses and reports.
View full course detailsSubject courses
Course code: 294701 New Zealand National Security credits 30
A study of security theory and the domestic and international factors affecting New Zealand's strategic environment.
View full course detailsCourse code: 294704 Command, Leadership and Management credits 30
An advanced study of the interrelated components of command, leadership and management with an emphasis on how these are applied in the contemporary security environment.
View full course detailsCourse code: 294709 Terrorism credits 30
This course is an advanced study of terrorism, violent extremism and radicalisation. It critically examines the various theories, concepts and typologies of these phenomena, as well as response options and the challenges they pose in the contemporary international security environment.
View full course detailsCourse code: 294711 Theories in Defence and Security credits 30
Advanced theoretical thinking in Defence & Security Studies drawing from International Relations, Conceptualisations of Power, Ancient and Modern Conceptualisations of War, and Human Security, Ethics and Identity. Students will select and apply one of the theory sets to a case study in order to develop the analytical skills for advanced research in the field of defence and security.
View full course detailsCourse code: 294712 Economic and Environmental Security credits 30
This course offers an in-depth exploration and critical examination of contemporary environmental and economic security issues using theoretical analyses of case studies to propose alternative options for negotiating and/or governing wide ranging complex security issues.
View full course detailsCourse code: 294713 Counter-Terrorism credits 30
The course provides an overview of international Counter-Terrorism policy, strategy and operations as context for considering the challenges around implementing Counter-Terrorism operations and policy analysis in the New Zealand.
View full course detailsCourse code: 294715 Asia-Pacific Security Environment credits 30
An advanced study of security theory and domestic and international factors affecting the Asia-Pacific security environment with emphasis given to strategic, national security and defence policy in the region
View full course detailsCourse code: 294716 Securing Mobility in an Uncertain World credits 30
This course is an advanced study of the dynamics of mobility and security in a globalised world. Mobility is central to the movement of goods, people, bio-organisms and ideas around the globe. The course will equip students with methodological tools to deconstruct the dynamics of mobility and construct solutions.
View full course detailsCourse code: 294717 Human Security in Application credits 30
This course examines critical analysis and application of human security in national and international contexts. This would allow the participants to understand and engage in a wide range of theoretical studies and practical projects on human security.
View full course detailsCourse code: 294741 Intelligence in the International Security Environment credits 30
An analysis of intelligence in the international security environment, focusing on key concepts and methodologies of intelligence gathering and analysis, the intelligence cycle, and analysis of applied intelligence in investigations and detection.
View full course detailsCourse code: 294744 Intelligence Operations credits 30
This course provides a critical analysis of security intelligence operations, utilising research and observations from selected case studies to understand the changing nature of intelligence and critically appraise the role of intelligence in national and international security operations.
View full course detailsCourse code: 294798 Research Report (30) credits 30
Part Two: Coursework Pathway
Course code: 294873 Research Report Defence and Security Studies (60) credits 60
Part Two: Research Pathway
Course code: 294881 Thesis 90 Credit Part 1 credits 45
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 294882 Thesis 90 Credit Part 2 credits 45
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 294883 Thesis credits 90
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 294891 Thesis 90 Credit Part 1 credits 45
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 294892 Thesis 90 Credit Part 2 credits 45
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 294894 Thesis 120 Credit Part 1 credits 60
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 294895 Thesis 120 Credit Part 2 credits 60
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 294899 Thesis credits 120
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsEconomics (180 credits)
Part One: Coursework Pathway (120 credits) or Research Pathway (60 credits)
Course code: 125785 Research and Analytics in Economics and Finance credits 30
This course provides foundations for econometrics and data analytics from which students can understand and perform quality empirical research in economics and financial contexts.
View full course detailsCourse code: 178732 Advanced Econometrics credits 30
This course introduces students to advanced methods used in econometrics and forecasting. Topics include time-series analysis; testing and model selection; simultaneous equations; nonstationarity; vector autoregressive models; causality and exogeneity; binary choice models and panel data analysis.
View full course detailsSubject courses
Course code: 178703 The Theory and Practice of Economics credits 30
This course is a survey of developments in macroeconomic and microeconomic theory with extension into contemporary issues and practice.
View full course detailsCourse code: 178712 International Monetary Economics credits 30
This course is concerned with the monetary and macroeconomic relationships between countries. It deals with such issues as balance-of-payments problems and policies, the functioning of foreign exchange rate markets, the determination and causes of exchange-rate movements, the international monetary system, and derivative instruments including swaps, options and futures.
View full course detailsCourse code: 178718 Health Economics credits 30
Subject areas to be covered include microeconomics for healthcare, the economics of politics and bureaus, demand for healthcare, the supply and organisation of healthcare, hospital behaviour, moral hazard, cost-benefit analysis in health, private versus public provision of healthcare and contemporary policy issues.
View full course detailsCourse code: 178719 Climate Change Economics and Policy credits 30
An analysis of the economics of climate change and evaluation of the mitigation options used by policy makers globally.
View full course detailsCourse code: 178755 Economic Growth, International and Development Economics credits 30
A critical assessment of topics from economic growth, international economics and the nature and measurement of development. There is an emphasis on the empirical and policy implications of development strategies including the relationship between managing development, role of the State, international economy, globalisation, trade theory and policy, global crises, and macroeconomic policy.
View full course detailsPart Two: Coursework Pathway
Course code: 178894 Research Report credits 60
Candidates are required to conduct a piece of independent research under supervision and to produce a report of the research for examination.
View full course detailsPart Two: Research Pathway
Course code: 178897 Thesis 120 Credit Part 1 credits 60
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 178898 Thesis 120 Credit Part 2 credits 60
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 178899 Thesis credits 120
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsEducation (180 credits)
Part One: Coursework Pathway (120 credits) or Research Pathway (Between 60 and 90 credits)
Course code: 254744 Pacific Peoples and Education in New Zealand credits 30
A critical examination of current issues in education which affect Pacific Islands peoples in New Zealand. Students will consider the place of Pacific Islands peoples in New Zealand society and design strategies for meeting their educational needs within specified professional fields of interest.
View full course detailsCourse code: 261765 Innovations and Critical Issues in Digital Education credits 30
This course critically explores how learning and pedagogical practices co-evolve with technological innovations, drawing on contemporary learning theories and empirical research in diverse learning contexts. Central themes in this course include critical issues in digital education, teaching & learning in a networked society, and how new/emerging technologies influence processes of learning and transformation.
View full course detailsCourse code: 263704 Advanced Studies in Motivation and Learning credits 30
A study of learning and the applications of national and international theory and research within learning contexts with an emphasis on contemporary learning themes.
View full course detailsCourse code: 265737 Young Children, Families, Whānau and Communities credits 30
This course offers a critical study of theory, research and policy relating to young children, families, whānau and communities. Content includes exploration of key theoretical perspectives, longitudinal research, and national and international policy that influences the lives of children, families, and whānau. Implications for young children, their families and whānau in the context of education and community will be explored.
View full course detailsCourse code: 269733 Mana Motuhake: Contemporary Issues in Māori & Indigenous Education credits 30
An analysis of power, politics and resistance that underpin a range of contemporary and topical social issues which impact on Māori and/or indigenous education. A critical examination of the role of advocacy, activism and protest in advancing Māori and indigenous rights and aspirations in the context of education.
View full course detailsPart Two: Coursework Pathway
Course code: 267860 Professional Inquiry credits 60
A critical evaluation and inquiry into a significant issue of professional interest, based on a critique of relevant theory and literature.
View full course detailsPart Two: Research Pathway
Course code: 267871 Thesis 120 Credit Part 1 credits 60
An advanced preparation for research, including a critical review of research literature, methodological design, ethics application and a refined research proposal.
View full course detailsCourse code: 267872 Thesis 120 Credit Part 2 credits 60
An advanced realisation of proposed research, subsequent analysis and scholarly report.
View full course detailsCourse code: 267880 Thesis credits 90
Course enables students to conduct and report research using academic research conventions.
View full course detailsCourse code: 267881 Thesis 90 Credit Part 1 credits 45
Course enables students to conduct and report research using academic research conventions.
View full course detailsCourse code: 267882 Thesis 90 Credit Part 2 credits 45
Course enables students to conduct and report research using academic research conventions.
View full course detailsCourse code: 267899 Thesis credits 120
An advanced scholarly application of theory and practice using academic research conventions.
View full course detailsEnglish (180 credits)
Part One: Coursework Pathway (120 credits) or Research Pathway (Between 60 and 90 credits)
List A: Subject courses
Course code: 139703 Critical and Creative Research credits 30
An introduction to practices of research with creative texts. Students will learn practical techniques for planning and producing research in critical and/or creative modes. Fostering a critical voice and debating the cultural and social value of aesthetic communication will be integral to the course.
View full course detailsCourse code: 139710 Rhetoric, Composition and the Teaching of Writing credits 30
An advanced introduction to rhetoric and composition as a framework for writing research and writing instruction.
View full course detailsCourse code: 139724 Literary Revolutions: Romantic and Victorian Literature credits 30
A study of literary culture in Britain and the Pacific during the Romantic and Victorian periods. This course explores relationships between poetry, novels, travel writing and political treatises in the period, focusing on the distinctive nature of literary engagements with contemporary social and political upheavals.
View full course detailsCourse code: 139728 Early Modern Drama: Form and Performance credits 30
An advanced study of the drama of Early Modern England and the significant social, artistic, political and religious forces that shaped it. The course will examine plays by Shakespeare and his contemporaries, investigating their material and cultural contexts using critical approaches that highlight questions of dramatic production and reception.
View full course detailsCourse code: 139750 Contemporary New Zealand Writers in an International Context credits 30
An advanced exploration of contemporary New Zealand fiction and poetry and its relationship to international aesthetic practices, in the context of globalisation and postcoloniality.
View full course detailsCourse code: 139758 Postcolonial Theory and Writing credits 30
An advanced introduction to theories of postcolonial ethics and identity, and their relationship to selected works of literature from a range of postcolonial contexts.
View full course detailsList B: Subject courses
Course code: 139763 Community Theatre credits 30
What role does theatre have in the community? Is there a valid place for community theatre in a secular society? If so, what stories need to be told through theatre? How might we tell them? The exploration of these questions will involve, initially, the examination of a range of historical and contemporary models of community theatre. Students will then engage in exploratory workshops, in community research, writing, rehearsals and theatrical performance.
View full course detailsCourse code: 139765 Creative Writing Workshop credits 30
An advanced study and practice of creative writing in its myriad contemporary forms.
View full course detailsCourse code: 154708 Modern Fiction, Popular Culture and the Media credits 30
An examination of major developments in approaches to fiction in the twentieth century, focusing on modern and postmodern trends, and on how these have impacted on the rise and alleged decline of distinctions between elite art and popular culture. Texts for analysis are selected from both literature and film and include examples of canonical as well as popular fiction.
View full course detailsPart Two: Coursework Pathway
Course code: 139873 Research Report English (60) credits 60
A supervised and guided independent study.
View full course detailsPart Two: Research Pathway
Course code: 139816 Thesis 120 Credit Part 1 credits 60
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 139817 Thesis 120 Credit Part 2 credits 60
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 139881 Thesis 90 Credit Part 1 credits 45
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 139882 Thesis 90 Credit Part 2 credits 45
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 139883 Thesis credits 90
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 139899 Thesis credits 120
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsGeography (180 credits)
Part One: Coursework Pathway (120 credits) or Research Pathway (Between 60 and 90 credits)
Course code: 145707 Economic Geography credits 30
Several themes are examined in relation to the geography of advanced capitalism at global, national and intra-urban scales. Within this broad framework students are encouraged to develop personalised courses of study which reflect their individual interests.
View full course detailsCourse code: 145710 Consumption and Place credits 30
This course explores consumption processes, practices and places. Using a number of themes it encourages students to engage with relationships between production and consumption, cultural and economic change, and matters of identity and ethics.
View full course detailsCourse code: 145711 Foundations in Human Geography credits 30
An advanced exploration of the history of geographical thought, critically assessing key debates that have shaped the field and examining geographical theory and methodology.
View full course detailsCourse code: 145712 Frontiers in Human Geography credits 30
An advanced examination and exploration of contemporary issues and debates in human geography.
View full course detailsCourse code: 145739 GIS Principles and Applications credits 30
A conceptual and operational understanding of Geographic Information Systems (GIS). This course provides a postgraduate-level introduction to fundamentals of spatial data creation, manipulation, management, visualisation and analysis.
View full course detailsCourse code: 145740 GIS Programming and Practice credits 30
This course focuses on principles and practices of programming within the GIS context. Issues in GIS project design and implementation are addressed.
View full course detailsCourse code: 145799 Research Report (30) credits 30
Part Two: Coursework Pathway
Course code: 145873 Research Report Geography (60) credits 60
Part Two: Research Pathway
Course code: 145881 Thesis 90 Credit Part 1 credits 45
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 145882 Thesis 90 Credit Part 2 credits 45
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 145883 Thesis credits 90
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work
View full course detailsCourse code: 145897 Thesis 120 Credit Part 1 credits 60
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 145898 Thesis 120 Credit Part 2 credits 60
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 145899 Thesis credits 120
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsHistory (180 credits)
Research Pathway only
Part One: Compulsory courses
Course code: 148720 Advanced Historiography credits 30
An examination of the relationship between ideas about the nature and meaning of history and the writing of history. The course concentrates on groups of historians who have propounded a philosophy of history and have been practitioners of the historian's art.
View full course detailsCourse code: 148730 Advanced Historical Methodology credits 30
A study of the theory and practice of historical research methodology.
View full course detailsPart Two
Course code: 148816 Thesis 120 Credit Part 1 credits 60
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 148817 Thesis 120 Credit Part 2 credits 60
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 148899 Thesis credits 120
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsMāori Knowledge (180 credits)
Part One: Coursework Pathway (120 credits) or Research Pathway (Between 60 and 90 credits)
Compulsory course
Course code: 150714 Ta Te Māori Rangahau Korero: Māori Research Methodologies credits 30
An examination of methodologies appropriate for research within Māori communities, iwi, hapu and whanau. Emphasis will be placed on accessing relevant information held in public repositories, on the internet and on computerised databases. The identification of frameworks for research in Māori contexts, ethical issues, and research design form important aspects of the course.
View full course detailsSubject courses
Course code: 150701 Tino Rangatiratanga: Strategic Māori Development credits 30
Strategies for Māori advancement are examined within a Māori development framework. Barriers to development and the facilitation of positive development are explored using criteria relevant to indigenous self-determination. There is a focus on land, fisheries, social policy, health, Treaty settlements and opportunities for positive development.
View full course detailsCourse code: 150702 Pae Ora: Māori Health Advancement credits 30
Strategies for the advancement of Māori health will be explored with a particular focus on health planning, national Māori health related strategies, health funding, the delivery of health services, and the link between Māori health strategies and positive Māori development.
View full course detailsCourse code: 150710 Te Reo Whakawhitiwhiti: The Language of Everyday Communication credits 30
A focus on the use of Māori language at home, in the workplace, in social situations, in sport and recreation. Students will be encouraged to express ideas and opinions in Māori with confidence and to incorporate new words into the vocabulary as indicated. The significance of local idiom will be an important part of the course.
View full course detailsCourse code: 150711 Te Tau-Ihu o te Reo: Advanced Māori Literature credits 30
Tuatahi he ako i te taumata momo reo, te kawa o tātau marae pēnei i te tangihanga, whakataukī, pepeha, kōrero pūrākau, waiata tawhito. Tuarua he kaupapa mai i te rēanga poropiti Māori o ērā atu rau tau. Ka tātaritia hoki ngā kōrero mo tērā poropiti a Te Kooti Ārikirangi Te Tūruki i ahu mai ai ngā kaupapa maha e pā ana ki te mana motuhake. Tuatoru kā tātaritia ngā kōrero e pā ana ki tēnei kaupapa hohonu, e taukapo ai ōnā kaupapa ko te poroporoaki tēnā. This course explores language forms used in marae procedure, and language associated with tangihanga, whakataukī, pepeha, kōrero pūrākau, waiata tawhito. In addition the prophecies and aspirations of Te Kooti Ārikirangi Te Tūruki are explored. There is also an examination of the oral narrative and written literature associated with poroporoaki.
View full course detailsCourse code: 150715 Taonga Tuku Iho: Heritage Aotearoa credits 30
An examination of the dynamics of Māori culture and custom as part of the Aotearoa/New Zealand heritage. Particular emphasis is placed on the significance of land, language, oral tradition, the marae, art, and the Treaty of Waitangi, as well as an examination of the role of government in heritage through a study of legislation, policy and programmes. Case studies will focus on conservation, maintenance, sustainability and revitalisation.
View full course detailsCourse code: 150799 Research Report (30) credits 30
Part Two: Coursework Pathway
Course code: 150873 Research Report Māori Studies (60) credits 60
Part Two: Research Pathway
Course code: 150816 Thesis 120 Credit Part 1 credits 60
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 150817 Thesis 120 Credit Part 2 credits 60
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 150881 Thesis 90 Credit Part 1 credits 45
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 150882 Thesis 90 Credit Part 2 credits 45
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 150883 Thesis credits 90
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 150899 Thesis credits 120
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsMedia Studies (180 credits)
Part One: Coursework Pathway (120 credits) or Research Pathway (Between 60 and 90 credits)
Course code: 154701 Modern and Postmodern Visual Cultures credits 30
An introduction to the key critical debates and cultural practices that have defined the response to modern mass media and their major ideological formations. Particular emphasis is placed on avant-garde notions of montage and their continuing influence on postmodern media theory and practice.
View full course detailsCourse code: 154702 Advanced Film Studies credits 30
This course engages students with a variety of critical and theoretical approaches to cinema, mapping their development across history and examining their usefulness in understanding the social, cultural, economic, political and aesthetic significance of film.
View full course detailsCourse code: 154704 Researching Media and Cultural Studies credits 30
An introduction to theoretical frameworks and research designs and methods in Media Studies and Cultural Studies and to various issues that arise in the conduct of research. Students preparing to undertake research-based theses or projects will receive assistance in the preparation of their proposals.
View full course detailsCourse code: 154707 The World of Noir credits 30
A study of the historical phenomenon of film noir, along with the related genre of the noir novel. The emphasis will be on classical film noir but more recent texts will also be examined. A variety of critical and theoretical approaches will be used.
View full course detailsCourse code: 154708 Modern Fiction, Popular Culture and the Media credits 30
An examination of major developments in approaches to fiction in the twentieth century, focusing on modern and postmodern trends, and on how these have impacted on the rise and alleged decline of distinctions between elite art and popular culture. Texts for analysis are selected from both literature and film and include examples of canonical as well as popular fiction.
View full course detailsCourse code: 154709 Technology and Cultural Change credits 30
This course examines the role of technology in producing and transforming contemporary culture. Through the investigation of key theorists, particular attention is given to the pivotal role technology plays in shaping space, time, and experience.
View full course detailsCourse code: 154747 Media Practice and Global Culture credits 30
This course examines the critical context of contemporary media practice, exploring how media texts, technologies, and institutions respond to and produce processes of globalisation. Students will focus on the use of digital and mobile media technologies, and consciously negotiate decisions regarding the cultural, social, political, economic, ethical and environmental implications of their own media production, distribution and consumption.
View full course detailsPart Two: Coursework Pathway
Course code: 154873 Research Report Media Studies (60) credits 60
A supervised and guided independent study.
View full course detailsPart Two: Research Pathway
Course code: 154816 Thesis 120 Credit Part 1 credits 60
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 154817 Thesis 120 Credit Part 2 credits 60
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 154881 Thesis 90 Credit Part 1 credits 45
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 154882 Thesis 90 Credit Part 2 credits 45
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 154883 Thesis credits 90
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 154899 Thesis credits 120
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsMuseum Studies (180 credits)
Part One: Coursework Pathway (120 credits) or Research Pathway (Between 60 and 90 credits)
Compulsory course
Course code: 150715 Taonga Tuku Iho: Heritage Aotearoa credits 30
An examination of the dynamics of Māori culture and custom as part of the Aotearoa/New Zealand heritage. Particular emphasis is placed on the significance of land, language, oral tradition, the marae, art, and the Treaty of Waitangi, as well as an examination of the role of government in heritage through a study of legislation, policy and programmes. Case studies will focus on conservation, maintenance, sustainability and revitalisation.
View full course detailsSubject courses
Course code: 167742 Collection Management credits 30
An examination of the following areas of museological theory and practice: material culture; recent research into private collecting; preventive conservation; collection management policy and practice; contemporary collection management issues including collection rationalisation, contemporary collecting, and the changing roles of curators and collection managers.
View full course detailsCourse code: 167743 Museum Management credits 30
An examination of museum organisation, governance, policy development, strategic planning, marketing, financial management, project management and personnel management. Practical skills in budgeting, grant writing, reports and presentations will be taught.
View full course detailsCourse code: 167744 Museums and the Public credits 30
An examination of the philosophy, strategies and practical processes of effectively interpreting and communicating museum programmes for a variety of audiences.
View full course detailsPart Two: Coursework Pathway
Course code: 167896 Research Report Museum Studies (60) credits 60
Students intending to enrol in this course should write to the programme coordinator of Museum Studies at the earliest opportunity. A dissertation proposal must be submitted by 1 April in the year of enrolment and approved by the Museum Studies Research Committee. A dissertation of not more than 20,000 words must be submitted by 10 October in the year of enrolment.
View full course detailsPart Two: Research Pathway
Course code: 167816 Thesis 120 Credit Part 1 credits 60
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 167817 Thesis 120 Credit Part 2 credits 60
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 167881 Thesis 90 Credit Part 1 credits 45
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 167882 Thesis 90 Credit Part 2 credits 45
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 167883 Thesis credits 90
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 167899 Thesis credits 120
Any student planning to enrol in the MA Thesis should advise the programme coordinator of Museum Studies in writing in the year before enrolment. A local supervisor may also be arranged. Students may enrol part-time and complete the thesis over two years. A thesis of approximately 30,000 words will be submitted. A thesis proposal must be submitted before 1 April in the year of enrolment and approved by the Museum Studies Research Committee. Selection of a thesis supervisor should be discussed with the programme coordinator of Museum Studies.
View full course detailsPhilosophy (180 credits)
Part One: Coursework Pathway (120 credits) or Research Pathway (90 credits)
Compulsory course
Course code: 134710 Philosophical Research credits 30
A study of key issues in the practice of philosophical research and development of a philosophical research project.
View full course detailsSubject courses
Course code: 134740 Advanced Study of Philosophical Topics credits 30
An in-depth study of selected philosophical topics at an advanced level from epistemology, metaphysics, theories of mind, or value theory.
View full course detailsCourse code: 134750 Advanced Study of Philosophical Texts credits 30
A detailed examination of selected philosophical texts at an advanced level.
View full course detailsCourse code: 134760 Advanced Philosophical Inquiry credits 30
This course will provide an opportunity for graduate students to engage in an advanced course of study in an area of current philosophical research.
View full course detailsCourse code: 134799 Research Report (60) credits 60
A supervised and guided independent study.
View full course detailsPart Two: Coursework Pathway
Course code: 134873 Research Report Philosophy (60) credits 60
A supervised and guided independent study.
View full course detailsPart Two: Research Pathway
Course code: 134816 Thesis 120 Credit Part 1 credits 60
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 134817 Thesis 120 Credit Part 2 credits 60
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 134881 Thesis 90 Credit Part 1 credits 45
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 134882 Thesis 90 Credit Part 2 credits 45
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 134883 Thesis credits 90
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 134899 Thesis credits 120
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsPolitics and International Relations (180 credits)
Part One: Coursework Pathway (120 credits) or Research Pathway (90 credits)
Compulsory courses
Course code: 176702 Advanced Social Inquiry credits 30
An advanced study of methodological issues pertinent to social research. The course is designed to assist the planning of postgraduate theses and reports.
View full course detailsCompulsory course selection
Course code: 200701 Advanced Political Thought credits 30
An advanced study of significant and diverse scholarships and debates that frame and contest contemporary political events.
View full course detailsCourse code: 200702 Comparative Politics credits 30
An in-depth exploration and critical analysis of the operation and nature of politics in different countries and regions around the world.
View full course detailsCourse code: 200761 International Relations: Theory and Practice credits 30
An exploration of the theory and practice of international relations.
View full course detailsSubject courses
Course code: 131703 Gender and Development credits 30
An examination of the interaction of gender difference, development planning and social change. Selected topics include empowerment and human rights, masculinities, the household, work, education, and health.
View full course detailsCourse code: 150701 Tino Rangatiratanga: Strategic Māori Development credits 30
Strategies for Māori advancement are examined within a Māori development framework. Barriers to development and the facilitation of positive development are explored using criteria relevant to indigenous self-determination. There is a focus on land, fisheries, social policy, health, Treaty settlements and opportunities for positive development.
View full course detailsPart Two: Coursework Pathway
Course code: 200873 Research Report Politics (60) credits 60
Part Two: Research Pathway
Course code: 200881 Thesis 90 Credit Part 1 credits 45
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 200882 Thesis 90 Credit Part 2 credits 45
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 200883 Thesis credits 90
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsPsychology (180 credits)
Part One: Coursework Pathway (120 credits) or Research Pathway (60 credits)
Compulsory course
Course code: 175738 Psychological Research: Principles of Design credits 15
An advanced study of the principles of research design in psychology. The course will provide a conceptual orientation to the integrated components of the design process. Through a meta-theoretical framework, various approaches to design will be explored to enable advanced engagement with psychological research from scientific, interpretivist and/or indigenous perspectives.
View full course detailsSubject courses
Course code: 175718 Postmodernism and Psychology credits 15
The course will focus on some of the ways in which the cultural phenomenon labelled as 'postmodernism' has impacted on/in psychology, with particular emphasis on the poststructuralist theories through which postmodern psychology is developing.
View full course detailsCourse code: 175719 Applied Criminal Psychology credits 15
An advanced study of the aetiology of recurrent criminal behaviour with reference to cultural and ethnicity issues, familial and societal factors, and cognitive and psychopathological correlates. The underlying emphasis of the course is offender rehabilitation.
View full course detailsCourse code: 175720 Advanced Psychology of Women credits 15
This course examines contemporary theoretical studies in the psychology of women. It is an advanced study of the history of women in psychology and critiques traditional approaches to research on women and girls. It includes three contemporary approaches focusing on specific areas of concern in the sub-discipline at present.
View full course detailsCourse code: 175721 Child and Family Therapy credits 15
The course covers a variety of theoretical frameworks which are used in working with children and families. An in-depth case study approach will be used to develop students' skills in working with children and families. The course is designed to build on the students prior knowledge of developmental and abnormal psychology.
View full course detailsCourse code: 175722 Principles of Clinical Neuropsychology credits 15
This course will focus on the principles of neuropsychological assessment, as they apply across the life span. Factors which influence neuropsychological functioning will be considered including neuroanatomy, cognitive functioning and the conditions that influence these factors.
View full course detailsCourse code: 175724 Advanced Experimental Psychology credits 30
This course provides an advanced overview of the theoretical and methodological issues that define contemporary experimental psychology with particular focus on affective, cognitive, and social psychology.
View full course detailsCourse code: 175725 Applied Social Psychology credits 30
This course adopts an applied orientation to social psychology in relation to complex socio-cultural issues.
View full course detailsCourse code: 175729 Psychology and Culture credits 15
This course examines the wide-ranging influence culture has in people's lives, from their ideological beliefs and values to their behaviour patterns. How cultural influences have been considered in the theory, research, and practice of psychology will be examined.
View full course detailsCourse code: 175730 Professional Practice in Psychology credits 15
The course provides an in-depth examination of the professional issues that impact on the practice of psychology. Models of practice, ethics, the statutes that affect practitioners, professional interrelationships and cultural issues are all analysed using a case-based approach.
View full course detailsCourse code: 175732 Psychological Well-being in Organisations credits 15
This course examines the influence of organisational and work characteristics on staff well-being and performance. It covers stress and stress management, designing salutogenic workplaces, implications of disaster and crises for staff, families and communities, psychological aspects of promoting health and safety in organisations.
View full course detailsCourse code: 175733 Sustainable Livelihood credits 15
According to the UN, Sustainable Livelihoods include not only access to shelter and food but also security, dignity, societal participation for groups and individuals. This course examines how workplaces potentially enable such capabilities, e.g., by respecting cultural foundations, enabling work-life-balance, providing decent work, and reducing inequality, through equitable partnerships between organizations along global supply chains, fair trade, living wages.
View full course detailsCourse code: 175734 Child Clinical Neuropsychology credits 15
This course is designed to enable students to understand and use theories, research and skills involved in child neuropsychology. An emphasis will be placed on functioning in interdisciplinary teams.
View full course detailsCourse code: 175737 Occupational Psychology credits 15
This course examines the relationship between people and organisations. Adopting a psychological perspective, it examines strategic aspects of staff development, job, social and cognitive approaches to task and role analysis, recruitment, selection, the training process, equal employment opportunities, industrial relations and performance assessment.
View full course detailsCourse code: 175739 Health Psychology: Understanding Health and Illness credits 15
An examination of how psychological factors enhance physical health or increase the risk of illness and disease. Theoretical and methodological aspects of etiology are given particular emphasis using examples from such areas as cardiovascular diseases and psychoneuroimmunology.
View full course detailsCourse code: 175740 Occupational Health Psychology credits 15
The application of psychological principles and theory to health and managing hazards in occupational settings. Students will learn critical skills in psychological evaluation, appropriate for the environmental, cultural and political contexts of the New Zealand workplace.
View full course detailsCourse code: 175741 Psychological Assessment in Organisations credits 15
This course investigates the application of the principles and theory of psychological measurement in organisational contexts. It covers the development of psychological tests, the implications of organisational factors for latent psychological constructs, test characteristics and test evaluation, and the application of psychological tests for processes such as selection, promotion, performance appraisal.
View full course detailsCourse code: 175743 Health Psychology: The Social Context credits 15
An examination of psychological theory and research on how social context shapes the experience of physical health and illness. An emphasis will be placed on the individual's understandings of health and experience of illness, and a critical consideration of research methods appropriate for examining these issues.
View full course detailsCourse code: 175744 Health Psychology: Promoting Health credits 15
An analysis of psychological theories and methods as applied to health promotion and disease prevention, and consideration of their applications at group, community and population levels.
View full course detailsCourse code: 175746 Psychological Research: Quantitative Data Analysis credits 15
An examination of how psychologists use quantitative data analysis techniques to address complex research problems involving multiple variables. Techniques including multiple regression, factor analysis and structural equation modelling are explored, with an emphasis on the relationships between analyses, research questions and design issues.
View full course detailsCourse code: 175747 The Psychology of Sport and Exercise credits 15
The course will examine current psychological theories and related research in the sport and exercise domain. Specifically, the focus of the course is on how psychological factors influence involvement and performance in sport and exercise.
View full course detailsCourse code: 175748 The Psychology of Organisational Change credits 15
This course examines psychological aspects of organisational change. It considers societal and organisational factors driving change and models of both planned and unplanned organisational change, illustrating these issues through the use of case studies of organisational change and psychologists' accounts of their experiences as change agents.
View full course detailsCourse code: 175750 Qualitative Methods in Psychology credits 15
The course provides advanced understanding and skill development to enable students to undertake qualitative research in psychology.
View full course detailsCourse code: 175751 Neuropsychological Rehabilitation credits 15
This course is designed to enable students to understand and use theories, research, and skills involved in neuropsychological rehabilitation. This course will review interventions that arise from neuropsychological evaluation. An emphasis will be placed on functioning in interdisciplinary teams.
View full course detailsCourse code: 175761 Theory and Practice of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy credits 15
This course provides a broad overview to the theory and practice of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy. Early research foundations and current empirical support will be examined. In addition to gaining an understanding of the generic cognitive model and its variants, practical experience in the use of basic assessment instruments and procedures for effective behavioural and cognitive intervention will be gained through demonstrations and roleplays.
View full course detailsCourse code: 175781 Understanding Mental Distress credits 15
This course builds on undergraduate study of clinical psychology to provide an advanced understanding of mental distress across the lifespan. The focus is on recognising the most common experiences of mental distress and understanding their etiology using evidence-based theoretical frameworks, emphasising psychological approaches. Attention is given to recovery and lived experience perspectives, and contextual and cultural influences on understanding the experience of mental distress. A case study approach is taken to provide opportunities for applied learning.
View full course detailsCourse code: 175782 Clinical Psychology Assessment credits 15
This course will examine a variety of standard objective and subjective clinical assessment instruments, and their use in diagnosis and treatment across the lifespan. Topics covered include cognitive, emotional and behavioural assessment; diagnosis-specific and population-specific instruments; and diagnostic interview systems. Principles of test administration, scoring and interpretation as well as ethical issues surrounding psychological testing will also be covered.
View full course detailsCourse code: 175783 Clinical Psychology Interventions credits 15
The course emphasises empirically validated treatments and integration of psychotherapy research and practice across the lifespan. The course covers behavioural and cognitive-behavioural interventions, experiential and brief dynamic psychotherapies as well as other factors in therapy (e.g., the roles of therapist, client, and culture).
View full course detailsPart Two: Coursework Pathway
Course code: 175873 Research Report Psychology (60) credits 60
Part Two: Research Pathway
Course code: 175894 Thesis 120 Credit Part 1 credits 60
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 175896 Thesis 120 Credit Part 2 credits 60
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 175899 Thesis credits 120
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsPsychology - Health Psychology (180 credits)
No new enrolments
This qualification is not accepting new enrolments.
Social Anthropology (180 credits)
Part One: Coursework Pathway (120 credits) or Research Pathway (Between 60 and 90 credits)
Compulsory courses
Course code: 146701 Contemporary Approaches in Anthropological Theory credits 30
A study of current theoretical issues and debates in social anthropology.
View full course detailsCourse code: 146703 The Practice of Anthropology credits 30
A study of the methodological and ethical dimensions of anthropological research.
View full course detailsSubject courses
Course code: 146707 Reading and Writing Ethnography credits 30
Students in this course will examine contemporary exemplary ethnographies and develop their own ethnographic writing practices.
View full course detailsCoursework Pathway only
Course code: 146708 Anthropology Today: Current Issues credits 30
Based on a close reading of an issue of a contemporary social anthropology journal, students in this course will explore current issues, topics and debates in social anthropology.
View full course detailsPart Two: Coursework Pathway
Course code: 146873 Research Report (60 credits) credits 60
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a report.
View full course detailsPart Two: Research Pathway
Course code: 146816 Thesis 120 Credit Part 1 credits 60
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 146817 Thesis 120 Credit Part 2 credits 60
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 146881 Thesis 90 Credit Part 1 credits 45
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a thesis.
View full course detailsCourse code: 146882 Thesis 90 Credit Part 2 credits 45
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a thesis.
View full course detailsCourse code: 146883 Thesis credits 90
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a thesis.
View full course detailsCourse code: 146899 Thesis credits 120
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsSocial Policy (180 credits)
No new enrolments
This qualification is not accepting new enrolments.
Part One: Coursework Pathway (120 credits) or Research Pathway (90 credits)
Compulsory courses
Course code: 179702 Advanced Research Methods credits 30
An examination of research methods, traditions and techniques used in social work, social policy and health research. The course is designed to assist in developing a research proposal for a thesis, or research project.
View full course detailsCourse code: 279701 Social Policy: Beyond the Welfare State credits 30
An advanced analysis of the trends, theories and impacts of social policy in relation to the state, individual and the distribution of welfare. An examination of the historical development of social policy including theories and models of welfare, approaches to political economy, Te Tiriti and welfare state typologies.
View full course detailsCourse code: 279703 Theorising Today’s Social Policy for the Future credits 30
A critical examination of social policy and its current developments. Utilising conceptual tools and new theories of social policy including sustainability, decolonisation and crisis theory to analyse social policy.
View full course detailsSubject courses
Course code: 132741 Long-Term Community Planning credits 30
An examination of the theoretical and empirical aspects of long-term community planning and exploration of evolving good practice.
View full course detailsCourse code: 179783 Manu tute credits 30
A critical examination of the personal and professional self as Mana Whenua or Mana Tiriti, social citizenship and active responsibility in advancing Mana Whenua aspirations. There is active engagement in Tangata Whenua theories and models of practice.
View full course detailsPart Two: Coursework Pathway
Course code: 279873 Research Report Social Policy (60) credits 60
Part Two: Research Pathway
Course code: 279881 Thesis 90 Credit Part 1 credits 45
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 279882 Thesis 90 Credit Part 2 credits 45
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 279898 Thesis credits 90
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsSociology (180 credits)
Part One: Coursework Pathway (120 credits) or Research Pathway (Between 60 and 90 credits)
Compulsory courses
Course code: 176701 Current Issues and Theories credits 30
An examination of key concepts, theories and debates in contemporary social theory.
View full course detailsCourse code: 176702 Advanced Social Inquiry credits 30
An advanced study of methodological issues pertinent to social research. The course is designed to assist the planning of postgraduate theses and reports.
View full course detailsSubject courses
Course code: 176718 Environmental Sociology credits 30
An exploration of the interrelations between society and the environment, with an examination of major contemporary environmental issues from a sociological point of view. Among the major issues covered are consumerism, population growth, resource limits, development, political conflicts, environmental groups and environmental values.
View full course detailsCourse code: 176799 Research Report (30) credits 30
Part Two: Coursework Pathway
Course code: 176873 Research Report Sociology (60) credits 60
Part Two: Research Pathway
Course code: 176816 Thesis 120 Credit Part 1 credits 60
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 176817 Thesis 120 Credit Part 2 credits 60
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 176881 Thesis 90 Credit Part 1 credits 45
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 176882 Thesis 90 Credit Part 2 credits 45
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 176883 Thesis credits 90
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 176899 Thesis credits 120
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
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