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 - Geography
Hamilton, Tauranga
INTAKE: Jul & Feb
Program Overview
The Master of Social Sciences in Geography program at the University of Waikato offers a comprehensive study of geographical phenomena, human-environment interactions, and spatial analysis. It focuses on exploring the complexities of landscapes, societies, and the environment through geographic perspectives.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the Master of Social Sciences in Geography at the University of Waikato encompasses a diverse range of topics. It includes courses in human geography, physical geography, GIS (Geographic Information Systems), environmental management, urban and regional planning, remote sensing, and geographical research methodologies. The program integrates theoretical concepts with practical applications, fostering critical thinking and analytical skills.
Research Focus: Research is a central aspect of the Geography program at the University of Waikato. Students engage in research projects exploring various geographical aspects, such as environmental sustainability, urbanization, climate change, cultural landscapes, spatial analysis, or natural resource management. They utilize GIS, fieldwork, and analytical techniques to address real-world geographical challenges.
Industry Engagement: The program actively engages with industries, governmental bodies, and environmental organizations. Through internships, fieldwork, and collaborative projects, students gain hands-on experience, apply geographic theories to practical situations, and contribute to solving geographical problems faced by communities and industries.
Global Perspective: The University of Waikato promotes a global outlook within the Geography program. It examines global issues like climate change, migration, globalization, and their geographical implications. Students analyze diverse cultural and environmental contexts, fostering a broader understanding of global challenges and solutions.
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 Geography program at the University of Waikato possess a diverse skill set and knowledge base, paving the way for a multitude of career paths in fields related to environmental management, urban planning, research, GIS analysis, and more.
Environmental Consultant: Graduates can work as environmental consultants, assessing environmental impacts, conducting surveys, and providing recommendations for environmental management in consultancy firms or governmental agencies.
Urban and Regional Planner: Individuals can pursue careers as urban and regional planners, working with local governments, NGOs, or private sectors to plan and develop urban areas, addressing sustainability and land-use issues.
GIS Specialist/Analyst: Graduates with expertise in GIS can work as GIS specialists or analysts, utilizing spatial data and technology for various purposes in sectors like environmental management, utilities, or urban planning.
Environmental Policy Analyst: Individuals can work as environmental policy analysts, evaluating policies, conducting research, and providing insights on environmental legislation and regulations for governmental bodies or non-profit organizations.
Conservation Officer/Manager: Graduates can work in conservation, managing natural resources, implementing conservation programs, and protecting ecosystems in governmental departments or conservation organizations.
Remote Sensing Specialist: With knowledge in remote sensing, graduates can work in fields such as land management, agriculture, or environmental monitoring, analyzing satellite data and imagery.
Researcher/Academician: Graduates can pursue careers in research or academia, becoming university lecturers, researchers, or contributing to think tanks, conducting research on geographical issues and publishing findings.
Spatial Analyst: Individuals can work as spatial analysts, utilizing spatial data to analyze patterns, trends, and relationships in fields such as transportation, urban development, or market analysis.
Climate Change Analyst/Planner: Graduates can work as climate change analysts or planners, assessing climate impacts, developing adaptation strategies, and contributing to climate change mitigation efforts.
Land Use Analyst: With expertise in land-use planning, graduates can work as land use analysts, examining land development projects, zoning regulations, and spatial planning strategies.
