Master of management by thesis at ICL Graduate Business School

Starting something big often begins with a single, clear step. If you’re curious, analytical, and ready to dig deep into management as a discipline, ICL’s Master of Management by Thesis is built for you—especially if you see yourself moving into a PhD or an academic/research career next.

About ICL Graduate Business School

ICL Graduate Business School focuses on rigorous, practical, and research-informed business education, with pathways designed for postgraduate students who want to deepen their expertise and open doors to doctoral studies. The Master of Management by Thesis centres on advanced theoretical mastery and a substantial original research project under academic supervision.

Why study the master of management by thesis

• Doctoral pathway: Offers a strong foundation for PhD-level study in New Zealand and internationally, ideal if you want to pursue academia or research-intensive roles.
• Deep specialisation: You’ll identify a real management problem, find gaps in existing literature, and contribute meaningful insights through your thesis.
• Advanced theory into practice: Emphasis on mastering contemporary management theories and applying them to emerging organisational challenges.
• Work flexibility: As a research master’s student in New Zealand, there are no restrictions on paid work hours during your enrolment, which helps balance study and career needs.

Programme overview and structure

• Level of study: NZQF Level 9 master’s by thesis.
• Duration of program: 12 months (three 16?week trimesters, excluding holidays).
• Credits/points: 120 credits total: two taught papers at 15 credits each, plus a 90?credit thesis.
• Mode of learning: Onsite study with thesis supervision. BYOD is required (bring your own laptop/tablet).

Subjects, topics, and thesis focus

• Core focus: Critically examine management theories and practices; design and complete a substantial research thesis.
• Research areas: Management, business, commerce, business information, and enterprise innovation—your thesis will address a defined gap or challenge in one of these domains.

Disciplines or specialisations offered

• Customised specialisation via thesis: Your chosen topic becomes your specialisation, guided by academic supervision in areas spanning advanced management, organisational culture, innovation, and business information.

Entry criteria for international students

• Academic background:
  • A Postgraduate Diploma, Master’s degree, or other NZQF Level 8 qualification in a business?related subject from a recognised institution; or
  • A Level 8 qualification in any discipline plus at least 3 years of relevant managerial and practical experience.
• English language:
  • Academic IELTS 6.5 overall, with no band lower than 6.0, achieved within the past two years in one sitting (or equivalent NZQA?recognised test).
• Personal statement: Strongly recommended to explain your motivation and research interests.

 

Highlights and career outcomes

Programme highlights

• Research-led master’s: Intensive thesis learning with targeted taught components to prepare you for scholarly inquiry.
• PhD readiness: Clear progression to doctoral studies with robust theoretical grounding. Real-world relevance: Identify and solve contemporary organisational challenges through evidence-based research.
• Work rights for research masters: No hourly limits on employment during your programme.

Career outcomes

• Academic and research roles: Lecturer, Research Fellow, Academic Advisor, Researcher, Research Analyst.
• Education and learning design: Learning Designer, Educational Consultant, Curriculum Developer, Higher Education Administrator.
• Policy and corporate roles: Policy Analyst, Corporate Trainer, Management Consultant, Research Manager.
  • Note: Some pathways may require additional post?graduation work experience.

Visa requirements and study work rights

• Study visa: International students typically require a New Zealand student visa; you’ll need to meet immigration requirements (offer of place, funds, insurance, and health checks).
• Work rights during study: For research master’s programmes awarded by a New Zealand tertiary institution, there are no restrictions on the hours you can work while enrolled. Confirm the latest conditions with Immigration New Zealand at the time of application.