Postgraduate study
Explore postgraduate study options with the School of Science in Society, including taught Master’s, Master’s by research and PhD.
The School of Science in Society offers several postgraduate options, including coursework-only study and thesis research, which can cater to your specific study needs and interests. Our taught Master's are suitable for students directly out of undergraduate study—you don't have to have studied science to continue your study with us—or those who are looking to upskill or gain professional development for the next stage of their career.
A taught Master's programme can lead into thesis research via the Master of Science (Science in Society) and we also welcome hearing from students interested in joining us as a research student, through a Master's or PhD. We have supervision expertise across a wide range of interdisciplinary research, including science and technology studies, science communication, Mātauranga Māori and history of science.
Master of Science in Society
Many of the most pressing issues facing society today—including COVID-19, climate change, and the impact of new technologies—cannot be solved using established scientific approaches. The Master of Science in Society (MScSoc) considers science in relation to its social context, its relation to Māori and other forms of knowledge, and its communication. It will equip you for a successful career in key roles in science policy, decision making, public engagement, or research on the social aspects of science.
You will graduate with:
- an understanding of the central concepts, theories, issues, and debates related to the role of science in society
- insight into multiple, and sometimes conflicting, perspectives on science
- the skills to analyse, critique, and reflect on the science sector and science engagement processes
- the ability to communicate clearly and effectively about science and the science sector through written, visual, and digital channels.
Master of Communication
The School of Science in Society contributes to the science communication specialisation within the Master of Communication. Students will study a combination of communication courses alongside several required science in society courses.
Postgraduate Certificate or Diploma in Science
If you’re looking to add to your current qualifications, seeking professional development around your current work, or not ready to commit to a full Master’s programme, a Postgraduate Certificate or Diploma may suit.
You will take a smaller number of science in society courses, with flexibility around which courses you choose and the possibility to ‘upgrade’ to a Master’s at a later date.
Find out more
To find out more about taught postgraduate study in science in society, including Postgraduate Certificate, Diploma or Master of Science in Society, contact:
Master of Science (Science in Society)
A Master of Science (MSc) is a research degree consisting of two parts and normally completed over two years: one year of coursework and one year of a full-time research project leading to a thesis. An MSc can be studied part-time and students who have started in the Master of Science in Society may be able to transfer to an MSc.
Find out more about undertaking a Master's by research at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington, including enrolments and available funding. Occasionally, we will advertise scholarship opportunities within the School of Science in Society.
PhD
A PhD is the highest degree offered by the School and usually takes three to four years to complete full-time.
PhD candidates are supervised by School of Science in Society staff: explore our staff’s research expertise.
More information on undertaking a PhD at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington, including how to apply and available funding, can be found through the Faculty of Graduate Research.
Find out more
To find out more or to express interest in studying a Master's by research or PhD with the School of Science in Society, contact:
More information
Master of Science in Society
This Master's programme is designed to give you an in-depth understanding of science's role in society through a modern, multi-disciplinary approach.
Master of Communication
Within the Master of Communication, you can choose to focus on science communication—a specialisation unique to Victoria University of Wellington.
Master of Science (Thesis) students
The School of Science in Society is open to Master's candidates from a range of disciplines who are interested in projects of relevance to science in society.