Development Studies
Study human societies and their relationship to the Earth we live on. Investigate inequality between people and nations, and the ethical issues it creates.
Subjects
- Development Studies
Public Policy and Government –
Learn how government works and how to make it work better. Find out how and why policy decisions are made, who they're made for, and how they can be most effective.
Whether they’re about climate change, child poverty, cyberbullying, student loans or liquor licensing, the decisions made by government affect our lives every day.
Study policy and government at Victoria University of Wellington and get the insights and skills to guide how these decisions are made.
I wanted to study something that would enable me to make a direct difference in people’s lives.
Full storySusan Jacobs
Master of Public Policy student
Capital connections
Study where policy gets made—with the people making it. As New Zealand’s capital, Wellington is at the heart of policy-making.
Make the most of the University's connections with the public sector and build networks through jointly run projects and seminars and internships in policy agencies. Listen to guest lectures from policy professionals, MPs and government ministers.
Powerful combinations
Maximise your know-how and ability to make a difference by combining the real-world insights of Public Policy and Social Policy with other subjects like Law, Economics and Political Science.
1893
The year New Zealand became the first country in the world to give all women the vote.
Professional programmes for professional progress
Are you a working professional wanting to take your capability to the next level? Choose from a flexible range of professional programmes in Public Policy, Public Management, e-Government and Restorative Justice Practice that are designed to let you study while you work.
After you graduate
Set yourself up to chose from—and move between—jobs in central, local or regional government, business, not-for-profits, consultancies and iwi, here in New Zealand or around the world.
As well as a policy analyst or adviser, you might work as a researcher, advocate, campaign coordinator, lobbyist, strategist or planner.
Because what we studied was so closely aligned to what government looks for, my cohort found it really easy to find jobs, many of us before we had even finished studying.
Full storyCameron Vannisselroy
Bachelor of Commerce with Honours in Public Policy and policy adviser at the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment
As New Zealand's political capital, Wellington is buzzing with people getting together and making things happen, in the city's famous cafés and bars, in conferences, clubs and seminars and at the exhibitions, gigs and shows that come through every week.
Support for students
Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington is a welcoming place with great student support. There are all sorts of resources available to help you get the best out of your time at university.
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People