Master of Regional Development

Postgraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs usually need a bachelor's degree or an equivalent qualification from a recognized institution. The entry requirement may specify a minimum score of 60% or higher in the previous academic degree.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: Overall score of 6.5 or 7.0, with no band below 6.
• TOEFL: Overall score of 90 with no individual section below 21.
• PTE: Overall score of 58, with a minimum of 50 in each section.

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

Work experience: Some postgraduate courses may require relevant work experience in the field.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

The University of Auckland offers various scholarships specifically designed to support and encourage international students in their academic pursuits. These scholarships aim to attract high-achieving students from around the world and provide financial assistance to help them achieve their educational goals at the university.

Merit-Based Scholarships: The University of Auckland offers merit-based scholarships recognizing academic excellence. These scholarships are awarded to students with outstanding academic achievements in their previous studies, supporting them throughout their undergraduate or postgraduate programs.

Need-Based Grants: For students facing financial challenges, the university provides need-based grants to assist with tuition fees or living expenses. These grants aim to ensure that deserving students have the opportunity to pursue their education without financial constraints.

Research Scholarships: The university also offers research scholarships for international students interested in pursuing research-based programs. These scholarships support students engaged in innovative research projects and contribute to the university's academic research endeavors.

Country-Specific Awards: Additionally, the University of Auckland provides scholarships specifically designated for students from certain countries. These awards aim to promote cultural diversity and international collaboration by attracting students from diverse geographical backgrounds.

Graduates from the 18-month Master of Regional Development program at the University of Auckland possess specialized skills and knowledge in regional planning, development, and management, qualifying them for diverse career opportunities. 

Regional Development Manager/Director: Graduates can work as regional development managers or directors, leading regional development initiatives for government bodies, consulting firms, or non-profits, overseeing strategies and implementation.

Urban Planner/Policy Analyst: They can pursue roles as urban planners or policy analysts, contributing to city planning departments, advising on urban development, and ensuring sustainable growth.

Community Development Specialist: Graduates may become community development specialists, working with communities to address social issues, plan projects, and facilitate collaboration between stakeholders for community improvement.

Regional Economic Development Consultant: They can work as consultants, providing advice to governments or businesses on strategies to promote economic growth, attract investments, and create job opportunities within regions.

Environmental Planner/Consultant: Graduates can work as environmental planners or consultants, ensuring environmental sustainability in regional development projects, focusing on conservation and minimizing environmental impact.

Policy Advisor/Advocate: They can work as policy advisors or advocates for advocacy groups, NGOs, or government agencies, influencing policies related to regional development, social equity, and environmental sustainability.

Infrastructure Development Manager: Graduates can oversee infrastructure projects such as transportation, utilities, and public facilities, ensuring effective infrastructure development within regions.

Rural Development Specialist: They can work in rural development, addressing challenges specific to rural areas such as agricultural development, infrastructure, and access to services.

Research Analyst/Consultant: Graduates may become research analysts or consultants, conducting research on regional issues, analyzing data, and providing insights to organizations involved in regional development.

International Development Specialist: They can work internationally, focusing on global development initiatives, collaborating with international organizations or NGOs on projects aimed at enhancing regional development worldwide.