Master of Social Sciences (MSocSc) in Psychology
A Master of Social Sciences (MSocSc) builds on the Bachelor's or Honours qualification you've already gained. When studying for your MSocSc, you'll focus on your preferred Social Science subject area and you'll immerse yourself in a high-level program of study. You'll learn the latest research techniques and be updated on recent developments in knowledge relating to your chosen field.
You'll be preparing for a dissertation or thesis, so you will be conducting a substantial amount of your own independent research. If you think you may want to complete a doctorate level qualification, later on, completing an MSocSc prepares you for that next level of academic study.
From analyzing the reasons for anger in considering the best way to train dogs, the study of Psychology allows insight into countless intriguing facets of cognitive function.
At Waikato, we offer plenty of flexibility to adapt to learning to suit your desired focus. Psychology can be taken as a major for the Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Social Sciences and Bachelor of Science - unlike any other university in New Zealand.
As a social science, Psychology focuses on individuals within the context of families, organizations and other groups, communities, cultures, and societies. As a biological science, Psychology studies the senses (hearing, vision, touch) and how the brain and physiological systems relate to behavior. As a cognitive science, Psychology studies perception, attention, memory, thinking and language understanding. The study of the development, personality, learning, and motivation are also part of Psychology at Waikato, as is animal behavior and welfare.
Campus Information
Hamilton campus
Our main campus is located in the vibrant, multicultural city of Hamilton, with outdoor activities, shopping malls and eateries only a short drive away. On campus, you’ll find a new state-of-the-art Student Centre, sporting facilities, cafes and eateries, car parking, subsidised bus services and more.
Intakes
- March
- July
Application Processing Time in Days: 30
Application Process
Minimum English Language Requirements
| English Level Description | IELTS (1.0 -9.0) | TOEFL IBT (0-120) | TOEFL CBT (0-300) | PTE (10-90) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Expert | 9 | 120 | 297-300 | 86-90 | |
| Very Good | 8.5 | 115-119 | 280-293 | 83-86 | |
| Very Good | 8 | 110-114 | 270-280 | 79-83 | |
| Good | 7.5 | 102-109 | 253-267 | 73-79 | |
| Good | 7 | 94-101 | 240-253 | 65-73 | |
| Competent | 6.5 | 79-93 | 213-233 | 58-65 | |
| Competent | 6 | 60-78 | 170-210 | 50-58 | |
| Modest | 5.5 | 46-59 | 133-210 | 43-50 | |
| Modest | 5 | 35-45 | 107-133 | 36-43 | |
| Limited | 4 | 32-34 | 97-103 | 30-36 | |
| Extremely Limited | < 4 | < 31 | < 93 | < 30 |
Job Opportunity Potential
We can help you with career planning, developing your CV and cover letters, interview skills, enhancing your employability skills, volunteering and refining your personal brand. The services can connect you with employers through Career Fairs, employer campus visits and promotion of graduate opportunities.
Career Opportunities
Sustainability advisor
Anthropologist
Biodiversity Management
Climate action specialist
Community educator
Data analyst
Ecologist
Economist
Environmental Scientist
Foreign Affairs Advisor
Media advisor
Policy Analyst
Political Scientist
Politician
Public relations expert
Planner
PSW Opportunity
- During study, all students on a student visa can work up to 20 hours per week during semester and full time during vacations.
- After completing Level 7 Bachelor’s Degree or Higher Qualification, a student will get a three years open post-study work visa.
- After completing Level 8 Post Graduate courses of 1 year, students get 1 year PSW.
Admission Requirement / Eligibility Criteria
This degree consists of either:
• a dissertation and coursework;
• coursework only.
This degree can be either in the same area as your undergraduate study or in a new area of study.
Depending on your previous study and chosen subject, a masters may take one, one and a half, or two years to complete.
Entry requirements
A recognised bachelors degree with a B-/B/B+ average, and a B-/B/B+ average in a relevant subject (if required).
Please refer to the respective masters degree course page for more detailed admission criteria.
Some Faculties/Schools require an honours degree (to demonstrate research capacity). Where the above requirements are not met, further study in a lower level programme may be required first.
A recognised bachelors degree with a B/B+ average, and a B/B+ average in a relevant subject if required. Some faculties/schools require an honours degree (to demonstrate research capacity).
Where the above requirements are not met, further study in a lower level programme may be required first.
- IELTS (Academic)- 6.5 overall (no band less than 6.0)
- iBT (internet-based) TOEFL- 90 with a score of 21 in writing
- iBT (home-based) TOEFL- 90 with a score of 21 in writing
- Pearson PTE Academic- 58 and no PTE communicative skills below 50
- Course Type: Full Time
- Course Level: Masters/PG Degree
- Duration: 01 Year 06 Month
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Total Tuition Fee:
61290 NZD
Average Cost of Living: 20000 NZD /year
Application Fee: N/A
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