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 - Public Policy
Hamilton, Tauranga
INTAKE: Jul & Feb
Program Overview
The Master of Social Sciences in Public Policy at the University of Waikato is designed to provide students with an in-depth understanding of public policy processes, governance, and analysis. It focuses on policy formulation, implementation, and evaluation within governmental, non-governmental, and international contexts.
Curriculum: The curriculum covers a range of courses emphasizing policy analysis, governance, economics, law, ethics, and research methodologies. Students explore various aspects of public policy, including its development, assessment, and impact on society. Topics may include policy design, public management, ethics in policymaking, and strategic leadership.
Research Focus: The program emphasizes research methodologies, enabling students to conduct in-depth analyses of policy issues. Students engage in research projects, potentially focusing on policy evaluation, policy advocacy, public administration, or comparative policy studies. They learn to critically assess policy alternatives and propose evidence-based solutions to societal challenges.
Industry Engagement: Students may have opportunities for industry engagement through internships, practicums, or collaborative projects with governmental agencies, non-profit organizations, or international institutions. These engagements provide practical experiences, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world policy challenges.
Global Perspective: The program may incorporate a global perspective by addressing international policy issues, examining comparative policies across different countries or regions, and analyzing the impact of globalization on policymaking. It aims to prepare students to understand and address complex policy challenges in an interconnected world.
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.
The Master of Social Sciences in Public Policy from the University of Waikato prepares graduates for diverse roles in public service, non-profit organizations, private sector consultancy, research institutions, and international organizations, addressing complex societal challenges through informed policy analysis and advocacy.
Policy Analyst/Advisor: Graduates can pursue roles as policy analysts or advisors in governmental agencies, think tanks, or consulting firms. They analyze policy issues, conduct research, and provide recommendations to improve policy development and implementation.
Public Administration/Management: Opportunities exist in public administration, working in local or central government agencies, overseeing policy implementation, managing programs, or leading departments related to public policy initiatives.
Non-profit Sector Manager: Graduates can work as managers in non-profit organizations, advocating for policy changes, managing programs, and shaping public policies that align with the organization's mission.
International Development Specialist: Careers in international organizations or NGOs involved in development projects and policymaking initiatives focusing on global issues like poverty alleviation, healthcare, education, and human rights.
Government Relations Specialist: Working in the private sector, graduates can engage in government relations roles, interacting with policymakers, influencing legislation, and ensuring business strategies align with public policies.
Policy Researcher/Evaluator: Opportunities exist in research institutions or academia, conducting policy research, evaluating the effectiveness of policies, and contributing to evidence-based policymaking.
Public Affairs/Communications Manager: Graduates can work in public affairs or communications roles, translating complex policy issues for the public, managing public relations, or advocating for policy changes.
Urban/Regional Planner: Careers in urban or regional planning involve analyzing policies impacting land use, infrastructure, and community development while ensuring sustainability and social equity.
Social Policy Analyst: Focusing on social issues, graduates may analyze and develop policies related to healthcare, welfare, education, or social justice in governmental or non-governmental settings.
Environmental Policy Specialist: Roles focusing on environmental policies, sustainability, and conservation, working in government agencies, environmental organizations, or consulting firms.
