Master of Science by coursework and thesis – MSc
Build on your Bachelor's degree with advanced scientific study at Master's level and become a leader in your field.
Get a degree that's recognised worldwide and contribute to knowledge in your field. A Master of Science (MSc) will develop your technical, laboratory and academic writing skills to prepare you for a career in science.
The MSc will take you between two and two and half years of full-time study. In the first year of your MSc you'll take several courses related to your specialist subject area. Next, you'll carry out in-depth supervised research for 12–15 months and write a thesis. During your studies you might also author publications for peer-reviewed journals.
To do an MSc you'll need a Bachelor's degree in an appropriate field, with an average grade of B+ or higher in your subject area. You may also be able to qualify for entry if you have appropriate work or other experience.
Available subjects
- Ecological Restoration
- Artificial Intelligence
- Biotechnology
- Cell and Molecular Bioscience
- Chemistry
- Cognitive and Behavioural Neuroscience
- Computer Graphics
- Computer Science
- Cross-Cultural Psychology
- Data Science
- Development Studies
- Ecology and Biodiversity
- Electronic and Computer Systems
- Environmental Science
- Forensic Psychology
- Geography
- Geology
- Geophysics
- Marine Biology
- Mathematics
- Molecular Microbiology
- Physics
- Psychology
- Renewable Energy Systems
- Science in Society
- Statistics
Get the Postgraduate Science Handbook
Fill in the form to find out more about your study options in our Wellington Faculty of Science Postgraduate Handbook.
Download the handbookRange of Master's programmes
Choose to complete this Master's programme or one of the specialist science Master's programmes. Most specialist programmes are 180 points and don't require a thesis.
If you have already done a BSc(Hons), you can apply to go directly into the 120-point MSc by thesis.
Workload
If you are studying full time, you can expect a workload of 40–45 hours a week for much of the year. Make sure you take this into account if you are working.
Study for a PhD
If you do well in your Master’s degree, and show an aptitude for advanced research, you’ll be able to apply to do a PhD.
You’ll work under supervision to produce original research that makes a significant contribution to knowledge. Full-time candidates usually complete the degree within three to four years. You’ll carry out original and sustained research under supervision from world-class academics in the Wellington Faculty of Science.
As a PhD candidate you’ll also be supported by the Faculty of Graduate Research.
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Requirements