University of Waikato

What you'll study

The MSc Research is centred on an original, supervised research project that culminates in a substantial thesis. Depending on your chosen discipline, your project may be in areas such as ecology and conservation, environmental science, computer science and software engineering, mathematics and statistics, chemistry and materials, or physics. Alongside the thesis you will normally undertake research training that covers research design, advanced subject-specific methods, ethics and data analysis. Some candidates also complete a small amount of coursework or seminars to support their project, but the emphasis remains on independent research and critical analysis.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a relevant undergraduate degree with honours or a postgraduate diploma with a significant research component. In some cases, applicants with a strong bachelor's degree and substantial relevant professional or research experience may be considered. All applicants must identify a prospective supervisor in the chosen discipline and submit a research proposal or outline as part of the application. International applicants must meet the University of Waikato's English language requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MSc Research progress to a range of careers. Typical pathways include:

• PhD study and academic research positions
• Research and development roles in industry, technology and biotechnology companies
• Environmental consultancy, resource management and conservation agencies
• Data analysis, modelling and specialist statistics roles in public and private sectors
• Policy advisor, science communication and technical specialist positions in government or NGOs

Why study at University of Waikato

The University of Waikato offers a supportive research environment with experienced academic supervisors across a broad spread of science disciplines. Students benefit from strong links between departments and local research partners, access to laboratory and computing facilities, and opportunities for fieldwork in diverse local ecosystems. The University also places importance on research that engages with local communities and tangata whenua, offering a context for research that is regionally relevant and internationally informed.