Massey University

What you'll study

The programme combines theory and practice across social innovation, entrepreneurship, systems thinking and impact measurement. Core study areas typically include design thinking and co‑design methods, social and environmental entrepreneurship, project and programme management, evaluation and impact assessment, business models for sustainability, systems mapping, ethics and policy, research methods, and digital tools for innovation.

Study usually follows a staged undergraduate structure with foundational courses in the first year, skill and practice modules in years two and three, and a capstone project or applied practicum where students design and test a real‑world intervention. Electives allow for depth in areas such as social enterprise, climate and sustainability, public policy, community development or digital innovation, and many students undertake industry placements or collaborative projects with community partners.

Entry requirements

Admission is at the undergraduate level. Applicants meeting New Zealand university entrance requirements (for example NCEA Level 3 or recognised international equivalents) are normally eligible to apply. Successful applicants typically demonstrate literacy and numeracy competence and may be expected to show evidence of interest in community engagement, social causes or entrepreneurial activity.

International applicants will need to provide recognised academic credentials and evidence of English language proficiency where required. Where relevant, selection can take into account portfolios, statements of purpose, or interviews for applicants who can demonstrate practical experience or a clear project idea.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles that require creative problem solving, stakeholder engagement and practical implementation of social and environmental initiatives. Common career paths include social entrepreneur or start‑up founder, programme or project manager in NGOs and community organisations, impact assessment or monitoring and evaluation specialist, sustainability or corporate social responsibility advisor in businesses, policy analyst in government agencies, and innovation roles within philanthropy or development agencies.

Alumni may also work in design consultancies, incubators and accelerators, research and evaluation consultancies, or continue to postgraduate study in fields such as public policy, sustainable development or business innovation.

Why study at Massey University

Massey offers applied, interdisciplinary learning with a strong emphasis on work‑integrated projects and community partnerships, giving students opportunities to test ideas in real settings. The university’s campuses and online delivery options provide flexibility, and students benefit from connections with industry, social enterprises and research centres that focus on sustainability and innovation.

Massey is known for combining practical skills with academic rigour, enabling graduates to move into practice quickly while retaining pathways to further study. Support services, career development and networks with practitioner communities help students transition from study to impact‑focused careers.