Auckland University of Technology

What you'll study

The Master of Health Science combines advanced disciplinary knowledge with applied research skills. Students choose between a thesis-based, coursework-and-research, or fully taught pathway depending on their career aims and prior qualifications. Core study areas typically include research design and methods (qualitative and quantitative), biostatistics, epidemiology, health systems and policy, and health promotion and implementation science.

• Research methods and biostatistics – advanced quantitative analysis, qualitative inquiry, mixed-methods approaches, and critical appraisal of evidence.
• Epidemiology and population health – study of disease distribution, determinants of health, and surveillance methods.
• Health systems, policy and management – organisation and governance of health services, policy analysis and health economics basics.
• Health promotion and implementation – designing, delivering and evaluating interventions; translational research and knowledge mobilisation.
• Specialist topics – depending on supervision and elective choices, students can focus on areas such as Māori and Pacific health, ageing and rehabilitation, mental health, digital health, or chronic disease management.
• Research project or thesis – a substantial independent research project or thesis is required for most pathways, supervised by academic staff and aligned with current health research priorities.

Entry requirements

Entry typically requires a recognised bachelor’s degree with a relevant major or an honours degree (or equivalent) in a health, science or social science discipline. Applicants with substantial professional experience in a health discipline and demonstrated research potential may also be considered.

• A bachelor's degree at a recognised university, often with a minimum B-average or equivalent; specific grade requirements depend on prior qualifications and the chosen pathway.
• For thesis or research pathways, evidence of research capability or prior research coursework is desirable.
• International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements as set by the university (for example, recognised tests such as IELTS or equivalent scores).
• Selection may involve the submission of a research proposal or statement of purpose, academic transcripts, and referee reports for research supervision suitability.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Master of Health Science are prepared for a range of professional and academic roles across the health sector. The degree provides skills valued in both practice and research, enabling career progression and opportunities for further study.

• Health services management and leadership roles within hospitals, primary care and community health organisations.
• Policy analysis and advisory positions in governmental and non-governmental health agencies.
• Research positions in universities, research institutes and health research centres, including progression to PhD study.
• Public health practice, programme planning and evaluation, and roles in health promotion.
• Clinical educators, quality improvement officers, and roles in implementation science or evaluation in private and public sectors.

Why study at Auckland University of Technology

AUT has a strong applied focus and close links with the health sector across New Zealand, offering students opportunities to undertake research projects embedded in real-world health settings. The university hosts active research centres and institutes within its health faculty that cover topics such as rehabilitation, population health, digital health and health services research.

• Applied, practice-oriented learning – course design emphasises translational research and skills that can be directly applied in health services and policy contexts.
• Experienced supervision and interdisciplinary expertise – students are supported by academics with strengths across public health, clinical research and health systems.
• Flexible study pathways – options for full-time or part-time study, with thesis and coursework pathways to suit those aiming for professional practice or further research training.
• Industry connections – strong regional and national partnerships with DHBs, primary care networks and community organisations that help with placements, projects and employment opportunities.