University of Waikato

What you'll study

The Master of Management combines taught coursework with a substantial research or applied project component. Core areas typically covered include strategic management, organisational behaviour and leadership, marketing for managers, financial decision-making for managers, operations and project management, and research methods and data analysis for business.

Students select advanced papers that reflect their career aims — for example international business, entrepreneurship, human resource management, business analytics or sustainability in organisations — and complete either a supervised research dissertation or an applied management project that addresses a real organisational problem.

• Typical taught topics: strategy and corporate governance; marketing strategy; managerial finance; organisational change and development; operations and supply chain principles; applied business analytics.
• Research/project component: an independent dissertation or applied project under academic supervision, integrating theory and practical application.
• Study modes and duration: the programme is offered full-time or part-time, with duration varying according to mode and whether the research or project route is chosen.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally need a recognised bachelor’s degree, ideally with a substantial component in business, management, commerce, social sciences or a related field. Academic performance at undergraduate level is considered; applicants with lower academic qualifications but relevant professional experience may be considered on a case-by-case basis.

International applicants must meet the University of Waikato’s English language requirements; evidence of proficiency such as IELTS or equivalent is required where English is not the first language. Applicants are also expected to provide academic transcripts and referee reports; some candidates may be invited to an interview or asked to submit a proposal if applying for the research/project stream.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Master of Management move into a wide range of managerial and specialist roles. Common career paths include management consultancy, business analysis, strategy and planning, product and marketing management, human resource and organisational development roles, operations and supply chain management, and project leadership. The programme also provides a foundation for those wishing to progress to doctoral study or pursue leadership roles within public sector and not-for-profit organisations.

Employers value the programme’s combination of theoretical insight and practical problem-solving, and graduates are prepared to take on roles that require evidence-based decision making, team leadership and strategic thinking.

Why study at University of Waikato

The University of Waikato offers a supportive learning environment with direct access to experienced academic staff and applied research opportunities. The Management School has strong connections with regional and national employers, which helps students secure project placements, internships and industry-relevant research topics.

Located in Hamilton with ready links to New Zealand’s major business centres, the University provides a balance of small-class interaction and research-led teaching. Students benefit from personalised supervision for their research or applied projects and a curriculum designed to develop both managerial capability and practical skills sought by employers.