Why Study / Key Benefits

The Master of Arts (Coursework) is designed for students who want to advance their undergraduate knowledge through structured postgraduate learning, practical experience and applied research.

Key benefits include:

• A flexible 180-point Master's qualification.

• Opportunity to study advanced subjects in humanities, social sciences and related disciplines.

• At least 90 points of advanced 400-level coursework.

• Opportunity to incorporate research, an internship or work-integrated learning.

• Development of critical thinking, communication, research and problem-solving skills.

• Opportunities to apply academic knowledge in practical professional settings.

• Access to university academic resources, subject specialists and postgraduate learning facilities.

• Potential to develop professional networks through practical learning and internship opportunities.

Programme Structure and Subjects / Topics

The MA (CW) is a flexible postgraduate programme combining advanced coursework with applied learning.

The programme includes:

1. Advanced coursework

• At least 90 points of 400-level courses.

• Subject-specific advanced academic papers.

• Lectures, seminars and independent study.

2. Research component

• Opportunity to undertake an approved research project.

• Development of research and analytical skills.

• Investigation of a subject-related academic or professional topic.

3. Internship or work-integrated learning

• Opportunity to gain practical experience.

• Application of academic knowledge to real-world situations.

• Development of professional networks and workplace skills.

4. Independent learning

• Academic reading and literature review.

• Critical evaluation and academic writing.

• Subject-specific assignments and assessments.

Disciplines / Specialisations

The university's published MA (CW) subject selection and postgraduate information identifies the following disciplines:

1. Art History

2. Classical Studies

3. Cultural Anthropology

4. Economics

5. Education

6. English

7. Environmental Humanities / He Aronui Aot?roa

8. Film

9. Geography

10. History

11. Linguistics

12. Mathematics

13. Media Studies

14. Music – Composition / Sonic Arts

15. Music Performance

16. Music Studies

17. Pacific Studies

18. Philosophy

19. Social Policy

20. Sociology

21. Study of Religion

Programme Highlights

• A 180-point Level 9 Master's qualification.

• Designed to be completed in approximately 3–4 trimesters.

• Full-time and part-time study options.

• At least 90 points of advanced 400-level coursework.

• Research, internship or work-integrated learning options.

• A broad range of humanities, social sciences and related academic disciplines.

• Lectures, seminars and independent study.

• Opportunities to develop practical and professional skills alongside academic knowledge.

• Potential to build professional connections through practical learning.

• Available from 2027, subject to regulatory approval.

Career Outcomes

Graduates may pursue career opportunities related to their chosen specialisation.

Potential employment sectors include:

• Education and academic support.

• Government and public administration.

• Policy research and analysis.

• Social services and community organisations.

• International development and cultural organisations.

• Media, journalism and communications.

• Publishing and content development.

• Museums, galleries and heritage organisations.

• Research and consultancy.

• Economics and social research.

• Arts and cultural management.

• Professional and non-profit organisations.

Examples of possible roles include:

• Research Assistant.

• Policy Analyst.

• Education Programme Coordinator.

• Communications Specialist.

• Cultural Programme Coordinator.

• Media and Content Professional.

• Social Researcher.

• Project Coordinator.

• Community Development Officer.

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

1. New programme from 2027: The Master of Arts (Coursework) is scheduled to be offered from 2027, subject to regulatory approval.

2. Separate qualification: The MA (CW) is a 180-point coursework Master's degree and should not be confused with the existing 120-point thesis-based MA.

3. Flexible learning structure: Students complete at least 90 points of 400-level courses and can incorporate research, internship or work-integrated learning.

4. Subject availability: The programme offers different subject pathways, but individual schools determine the available courses and learning arrangements.

5. Academic performance: Applicants generally need a B-range average in a relevant Bachelor's degree.

6. International orientation: New international students must complete the university's applicable International Orientation and Enrolment requirements.

7. Regulatory approval: The university's programme application information explicitly states that the MA (CW) will be offered from 2027 subject to regulatory approval. Applicants should obtain confirmation that the qualification and intended specialisation are approved before making a financial commitment.

International Student Visa Requirements

International students intending to study this programme on campus in New Zealand generally need a Fee Paying Student Visa from Immigration New Zealand.

Visa requirements:

1. Offer of Place: Obtain an acceptable Offer of Place from Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.

2. Passport: Hold a valid passport and provide the required identity documents.

3. Tuition fees: Provide evidence of payment, ability to pay tuition fees or an acceptable scholarship or funding arrangement.

4. Living expenses: Demonstrate sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay.

5. Medical and travel insurance: Maintain insurance acceptable to the university and Immigration New Zealand.

6. Genuine student intentions: Demonstrate genuine reasons for studying in New Zealand.

7. Health requirements: Meet applicable medical and health requirements.

8. Character requirements: Meet Immigration New Zealand's character requirements.

9. Return travel: Provide evidence of a return ticket or sufficient funds to purchase one.

10. Academic progress: Maintain satisfactory academic progress and comply with attendance requirements.

Financial requirements:

For tertiary-level international students, Immigration New Zealand currently requires:

• NZ$20,000 for each year of study; or

• NZ$1,667 per month for courses shorter than one year.

These funds are for living expenses and are separate from tuition fees.

Acceptable financial evidence may include:

• Personal or family bank statements.

• Education loan sanction letters.

• Scholarship confirmation letters.

• Approved sponsorship arrangements.

• Fixed-term deposit evidence.

• Other acceptable financial documentation.

Visa work conditions:

• Eligible student visa holders may work up to 25 hours per week during study.

• Full-time work may be permitted during scheduled holidays, depending on visa conditions.

• Students must check their individual eVisa conditions before starting employment.

• Work rights are not automatic for every student visa.

Other important conditions:

• Students must study the programme and education provider specified in their visa.

• Students must maintain acceptable medical and travel insurance.

• Students must comply with applicable attendance and academic progress requirements.

• The university recommends applying for a student visa at least three months before intended travel.

Visa application information:

• Visa type: Fee Paying Student Visa.

• Maximum visa duration: Up to four years, depending on the approved study and visa conditions.

• Current published application cost: From NZ$850.

• Published processing indicator: 80% within seven weeks. Processing times can change.