Master of Philosophy Political Science (Research)

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 Waikato in New Zealand offers a range of scholarships specifically tailored to support international students pursuing their academic aspirations. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic excellence, promote diversity, and assist students in overcoming financial barriers to education.

International Excellence Scholarship: This merit-based scholarship is awarded to high-achieving international students enrolling in undergraduate or postgraduate programs at the University of Waikato. The scholarship covers a portion of tuition fees and is renewable based on academic performance.

International Bursary: The International Bursary aims to support outstanding students by providing a financial contribution toward tuition fees for the first year of study at the university. It is available to eligible international students undertaking full-time undergraduate or postgraduate studies.

Sir Edmund Hillary Scholarship Programme: This prestigious scholarship program is designed for exceptional international students who demonstrate leadership potential and excel academically. Recipients receive financial assistance along with additional support for leadership development and networking opportunities.

Pacific Excellence Scholarship: Dedicated to students from Pacific countries, this scholarship recognizes academic achievement and provides financial support to cover a portion of tuition fees for selected undergraduate or postgraduate programs.

Country-Specific Scholarships: The University of Waikato offers scholarships tailored to students from specific countries or regions. These scholarships vary in criteria and eligibility, aiming to support students from diverse backgrounds and nationalities.

Research Scholarships: For international students pursuing research degrees (Ph.D. or Master's by Research), the university offers various scholarships to support their research endeavors. These scholarships provide financial assistance, allowing students to focus on their studies and contribute to groundbreaking research initiatives at the university.

Graduates from the Master of Philosophy in Political Science (Research) program at the University of Waikato possess advanced knowledge and research skills in political science, enabling them to pursue various career paths.

Academia/University Professor: Graduates can pursue academic careers as professors, lecturers, or researchers in political science departments at universities, teaching and conducting research.

Research Analyst/Policy Advisor: Professionals may work as research analysts or policy advisors in governmental agencies, think tanks, or non-governmental organizations, providing policy recommendations and analysis.

Political Consultant/Lobbyist: Career paths may lead to roles as political consultants or lobbyists, working with political organizations, interest groups, or private entities to influence policy decisions.

Public Affairs Manager/Strategist: Graduates might enter roles as public affairs managers or strategists, working in corporations, NGOs, or government offices to manage public relations or strategic communication.

International Relations Specialist: Opportunities exist in international organizations, diplomatic services, or NGOs, focusing on international relations, diplomacy, conflict resolution, or global governance.

Government/Policy Researcher: Professionals can work in government agencies or research institutes, conducting research on public policy, governance, public administration, or political systems.

Journalism/Political Analyst: Career paths include roles in journalism, political analysis, or media commentary, providing political insights, analysis, or reporting for media outlets.

Nonprofit/NGO Management: Graduates might engage in nonprofit or NGO management, working in leadership roles in organizations focusing on social issues, human rights, or advocacy.

Political Campaign Manager/Advisor: Career opportunities can include roles as political campaign managers or advisors, assisting political candidates or parties in electoral campaigns.

International Development Specialist: Professionals may work in international development, focusing on issues like poverty alleviation, sustainable development, or humanitarian aid.