Auckland University of Technology

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced coursework in applied psychological science with practical experience and an independent research or applied project. Typical subject areas include:

• Advanced research methods and statistics — multivariate techniques, experimental design, programme evaluation and applied data analysis.
• Assessment and measurement — psychometrics, test development, diagnostic interviewing and outcome measurement.
• Intervention and change strategies — evidence‑based interventions in health, organisational and community settings, behaviour change techniques and programme implementation.
• Applied specialisms — options commonly include organisational/industrial psychology, health psychology, educational psychology, forensic applications and wellbeing in workplaces.
• Professional skills and ethics — professional communication, cultural competency (including Te Ao Māori perspectives), ethics and legal considerations in applied practice.
• Practicum or placement — supervised applied experience in a relevant agency or workplace to translate theory into practice.
• Research or applied capstone — a thesis, research project or applied consultancy project that demonstrates independent integration of research and practice.

Delivery is typically a mix of lectures, workshops, supervised placements and independent research. Assessment commonly includes written reports, case formulations, research papers, presentations and placement evaluations.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold an undergraduate degree with substantial psychology content or equivalent tertiary qualification. Prior study in research methods and statistics is usually required. Selection commonly considers academic transcripts, a statement of purpose, curriculum vitae and referees; some applicants may be asked to attend an interview.

International applicants must meet the university's English language requirements and provide evidence of prior qualifications assessed as comparable to New Zealand tertiary study. For placements in certain settings, background checks or health clearances may be required.

Career prospects

Graduates work in a wide range of applied settings. Typical roles include:

• Organisational roles — people analytics, talent development, training design and workplace wellbeing.
• Health and community — health promotion, behaviour change programmes, rehabilitation services and wellbeing coordination.
• Education and youth services — programme evaluation, learning support and student wellbeing roles.
• Forensic and justice settings — assessment, risk management support and rehabilitation programme delivery.
• Research and policy — applied research positions in government agencies, NGOs and research institutes.

Note that completion of this master's provides advanced applied skills and research experience but does not by itself constitute registration as a clinical or registered psychologist; additional supervised practice and professional qualifications may be required for statutory registration or practitioner titles in New Zealand and overseas.

Why study at Auckland University of Technology

Auckland University of Technology emphasises applied learning and close industry engagement, offering access to supervised placement partners across Auckland and beyond. The university has active research groups in applied psychology areas and facilities that support practical training, including testing and behavioural labs. Students benefit from a metropolitan location with diverse communities, opportunities for cross‑disciplinary collaboration, and staff who combine academic expertise with professional practice experience.