MA in Political Science
Victoria University Wellington
Duration
1 year
Intake
February
Degree
Master’s
Program Overview
Advance your studies with a Master of Political Science, a 12-month programme designed to build postgraduate-level knowledge without requiring an Honours degree. If you prefer a shorter option, you can choose the Postgraduate Diploma in Political Science, which focuses on coursework.
Based in Wellington, New Zealand’s capital, the programme places you close to government institutions and policy-making environments, giving you direct exposure to how politics operates in practice. You’ll gain insight into political systems, governance, and public policy within both local and global contexts.
The course also offers a strong international outlook, allowing you to compare political systems across different countries. You can broaden your studies with subjects such as international relations, strategic studies, and public policy, creating a well-rounded understanding of global politics.
You’ll also have access to valuable opportunities, including the Parliamentary Internship and international field study programmes in China and Japan. For students interested in political science, government careers, and global affairs, this programme provides a focused pathway into the field.
Key Information
University
Victoria University Wellington
Campus
Wellington
Total Credits
180 points
Study Mode
Full-time
Loan Availability
No
Program Details
Duration
Tuition Fee:
Format
Attendance:
Study Gap:
Fees & Funding:
NZD 40,000 (indicative international rate)
Course Structure
You'll develop the core knowledge needed to understand political systems, policy processes and government in New Zealand and around the world. You’ll also hone your ability to design, interpret and apply political science research.
You’ll be able to choose from a range of courses spanning political thought, leadership, representation, political participation and political action. You can complement your Political Science courses with approved International Relations and Strategic Studies courses.
The MPols is in two parts—a taught and a research component.
The taught component starts with the core course and a range of approved courses.
For the research component you can choose between a 60-point dissertation and a combination of a 30-point research project and a taught course.
You may get permission from the MPols administrator to do a 90-point thesis in place of the part two research component and some part one courses.
If you are studying full time, you can expect a workload of 40–45 hours a week for much of the year.
You can estimate your workload by adding up the number of points you'll be doing. One point is roughly equal to 10–12 hours work.
Entry Requirement
Academic
A Bachelor’s degree or a Graduate diploma in Political Science, International Relations or Public Policy, with at least a B grade average in 60 points of 300-level courses in the majoring subject or or relevant area of study.
Language
IELTS - Minimum score of 6.5, no band below 6.0
PTE - Minimum score of 58, no communicative skills below 50
TOEFL - Minimum score of 90, with no section below 20
How To Apply
Quick flow:
Course → Apply → Offer → Visa → Travel → Study
Contact Us
Shakil Education Group
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