University of Auckland

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced coursework with supervised research and is taught through an interdisciplinary lens drawing on Māori studies, anthropology, history, law, education, health and language revitalisation. You will study theory and practice in Indigenous methodologies, kaupapa Māori research, treaty and governance issues, cultural heritage and policy, and language planning and revitalisation.

• Core topics: Indigenous research methods, kaupapa Māori theory, Indigenous epistemologies and decolonising methodologies.
• Applied areas: Indigenous language planning and revitalisation, Māori and Indigenous health, Indigenous education, treaty and post-settlement governance, cultural heritage management, and Indigenous law and policy.
• Research component: The degree includes a supervised research project or thesis option that allows you to develop a substantial piece of original scholarship, often in partnership with iwi, hapū or community organisations.
• Teaching format: A mix of seminars, workshops, community-engaged research, and independent study. Students can expect close supervision, opportunities for collaborative projects, and access to archival and oral-history resources.

Entry requirements

Applicants typically need a recognised bachelor’s degree with a strong academic record or an equivalent qualification in a relevant discipline. Candidates with professional experience in Indigenous development, community leadership, or related fields may be considered, particularly for practice-focused pathways. For the research/thesis option, a clear research proposal and evidence of research preparedness are normally required.

International applicants must meet the University of Auckland’s English language requirements. Additional requirements may include academic references and, for some applicants, evidence of engagement with Indigenous communities or organisations relevant to their proposed research.

Career prospects

Graduates from this programme go on to careers that require specialist knowledge of Indigenous issues, kaupapa Māori approaches and community-centred research. Typical roles include:

• Policy analyst or advisor in central and local government departments focused on Māori and Indigenous affairs.
• Researcher or project lead in university departments, Crown research institutes, or research centres partnering with Indigenous communities.
• Programme manager, planner or advisor for iwi, hapū, marae, and community organisations focused on development, health, education or language revitalisation.
• Roles within museums, libraries and heritage organisations managing tikanga-based collections and community relationships.
• Education and training roles, including curriculum development, Māori-medium education leadership and adult education within iwi and community settings.

Why study at University of Auckland

The University of Auckland provides an interdisciplinary environment with established strengths in Māori and Indigenous scholarship and active connections to iwi, community organisations and national research networks. Students benefit from access to experienced supervisors, research centres focused on Indigenous knowledge, and collaborative opportunities with Ngā Pae o te Māramatanga and other Māori research partners.

Located in Tāmaki Makaurau / Auckland, the university offers strong community engagement opportunities, a diverse student cohort and pathways into public, non-profit and community sectors where Indigenous expertise is in demand.