Master of Technology Innovation in Business
The University of Waikato in New Zealand offers a dynamic and cutting-edge program, the...
Master of Social Sciences - Political Science
Hamilton, Tauranga
INTAKE: Jul & Feb
Program Overview
The Master of Social Sciences in Political Science program at the University of Waikato is designed to provide advanced knowledge and expertise in political theories, systems, and practices. It focuses on the analysis of political structures, policies, governance, and their impact on societies.
Curriculum: The curriculum covers a diverse range of topics such as comparative politics, political theory, international relations, public policy, political economy, and governance. It may include core courses, seminars, and electives that allow students to tailor their studies according to their interests.
Research Focus: The program emphasizes research methodologies, enabling students to conduct independent research, analyze political issues, and contribute to scholarly discourse. It may involve a thesis or research project where students can explore specific areas of political science in depth.
Industry Engagement: The program may offer opportunities for industry engagement through internships, collaborations with government agencies, political organizations, or involvement in policy research. It aims to bridge academic knowledge with real-world applications in politics and governance.
Global Perspective: The curriculum often incorporates a global perspective, encouraging students to analyze political phenomena from an international and comparative lens. It may cover global governance, international relations, global political economy, and cross-cultural studies.
Location
Hamilton, Tauranga
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
NZD 35903
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 Social Sciences in Political Science program at the University of Waikato possess a broad spectrum of skills and knowledge, allowing them to pursue diverse career paths.
Policy Analyst/Researcher: Roles in policy analysis or research involve examining policy implications, conducting political research, and contributing insights to government bodies, think tanks, or research institutions.
Government/Administration: Opportunities exist within government agencies, civil services, or local government authorities in roles such as political advisors, policy officers, or administrative positions.
International Relations/Foreign Affairs: Careers in international organizations, diplomatic services, or foreign affairs, involving work on global governance, international policy, or diplomacy.
Political Consultancy/Analysis: Careers in political consulting firms, offering advice on political campaigns, public relations, strategic planning, or policy consulting to governmental or private entities.
Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs): Roles in NGOs, advocacy groups, or non-profit organizations focusing on various social, environmental, or human rights issues at national or international levels.
Journalism/Media: Opportunities in journalism, political reporting, or media analysis, contributing to newspapers, television, radio, or online platforms, interpreting and reporting on political developments.
Academia/Teaching: Roles in academia as professors, lecturers, or researchers in universities or educational institutions, teaching political science and conducting research.
Public Affairs/Community Engagement: Roles involving community engagement, public relations, or public affairs within governmental or non-governmental organizations, ensuring effective communication and engagement with communities.
Legal Professions/Policy Advocacy: Opportunities in legal professions, law firms, or policy advocacy groups, working on legal aspects of policies, advocacy, or legal analysis.
Corporate/Government Relations: Roles bridging corporate entities and government agencies, managing relationships between the private sector and government bodies.
Think Tanks/Research Institutes: Careers in think tanks or research institutes, contributing to policy discussions, analysis, and the development of political perspectives on societal issues.
