Master of Business Administration
Transform your career with the Waikato Master of Business Administration (MBA). A world-class qualification that will help you unlock your leadership potential and make a real difference to your business or organisation.
Two pathways. One MBA. Choose the study experience that is right for you.
You can study the Waikato Master of Business Administration full-time (12 months) in Tauranga or part-time in Hamilton.
Want to know more? Fill out our enquiry form and our team will get in touch to discuss your options.
180 points, 12 months (full-time Tauranga) or 2 years (part-time Hamilton)
Note: The full-time MBA in Tauranga is the only option open to international students.
Tauranga, Hamilton
The full-time MBA in Tauranga starts in July 2027. The part-time MBA in Hamilton starts in March 2027, with option to start later in May.
Why study the Master of Business Administration?
Waikato's MBA is for people who want to move into senior leadership roles where they can make a significant positive impact for their organisation or business.
It is a life-changing qualification that will help you develop the skills needed to grow into an outstanding business or community leader.
The Waikato MBA places practical application at the centre of the learning experience. Students apply their learning to genuine business challenges and develop solutions that create real value for organisations.
Real business. Real leadership.
Leadership is developed through experience. Through initiatives such as the High Impact Project and MBA Case Competition, students tackle real organisational challenges and develop practical solutions to complex business issues.
Future-focused leadership
Today’s leaders must navigate rapid technological, social and environmental change. The Waikato MBA develops capability in areas such as artificial intelligence, innovation, disruption, organisational transformation and sustainable value creation.
Global perspectives
Develop the cultural intelligence and leadership capability needed to lead across diverse and internationally connected environments. Students gain exposure to global business challenges, diverse perspectives and leadership approaches that reflect the realities of modern organisations.
Internationally recognised
Study with a Triple Crown accredited business school, placing it in the top 1% of business schools worldwide.
Enquire now
Have questions about how studying the MBA can fit around your busy life? Fill out our enquiry form and our team will get in touch with you.
180 points, 12 months (full-time Tauranga) or 2 years (part-time Hamilton)
Note: The full-time MBA in Tauranga is the only option open to international students.
Tauranga, Hamilton
The full-time MBA in Tauranga starts in July 2027. The part-time MBA in Hamilton starts in March 2027, with option to start later in May.
Degree information
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Plan your study -
Entry requirements Scholarships
Apply now for the Waikato Management School Emerging Leaders Entrance Scholarship. Applications close end of January.
You can apply for the Waikato MBA if you have:
- A bachelor's degree with at least a B-minus grade average across the 300-level papers, or equivalent professional qualification; AND at least 3 years' management experience
- Met the English language requirements for Masters-level study. For more information, see https://www.waikato.ac.nz/study/apply/international/entry-requirements-for-international-students/
Note: You don't need to have 'manager' in your current or previous job titles. Your job could involve managing projects, processes or people. If you are unsure if you have the necessary experience, please email us a copy of your CV so we can assess your eligibility.
You will be invited to attend an interview with the Waikato MBA Director (in person or via Teams) before being admitted to this programme.
You will also need to provide the following documentation:
- A detailed CV that outlines your education and employment history that highlights leadership and management skills or experience.
- Two written letters of reference; one from your employer and the other can be from an individual of your choice.
- References should be from individuals who can comment on your managerial strengths, leadership potential and personal character. Please see this Guide for Referees.
International students can apply for the Waikato full-time MBA | Tauranga if you have:
- A bachelor’s degree with at least a B- average; and
- At least three years’ management experience.
You will also need to provide:
- A detailed CV.
- Two written references.
- Evidence that you meet the University of Waikato English language requirements, for example IELTS Academic overall score of 6.5 with no band below 6.0.
Applicants may be invited to attend a panel entry interview before being admitted to the programme.
International applicants should also check student visa requirements, insurance requirements and other information for studying in New Zealand.
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Fees and scholarships Estimated fees
$50,107 per programme.
-
Domestic tuition fees
Approximate annual tuition fees and costs for domestic students enrolled in one year of full-time study.
Domestic tuition costs -
Scholarships
Visit our Scholarship finder for more information about possible scholarships.
Scholarships Finder
Relevant as of 28 August 2026.
All amounts are in New Zealand Dollars (NZD). Tuition fees shown are indicative only and may change. There are additional fees and charges related to enrolment. Please see the Table of Fees and Charges for more information. You will be sent an enrolment agreement which will confirm your fees. View information about fees free study.
Estimated fees
$65,700 per year
-
International tuition fees
Approximate annual tuition fees and costs for international students enrolled in one year of full-time study.
International tuition costs -
Scholarships
Visit our Scholarship finder for more information about possible scholarships.
Scholarships Finder
Relevant as of 28 August 2026.
All amounts are in New Zealand Dollars (NZD). Tuition fees shown are indicative only and may change. There are additional fees and charges related to enrolment. Please see the Table of Fees and Charges for more information. You will be sent an enrolment agreement which will confirm your fees.
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Graduate outcomes Graduates of the Master of Business Administration will be future-focused leaders who:
- Have insight and curiosity to develop values-led innovative ideas and solutions for business faced with complex global issues.
- Can translate ideas into impactful results for business.
- Are agile, resilient and ethical at all levels of decision-making.
- Are global citizens
- Can inspire and facilitate others to transform for positive change
- Demonstrate and utilise key strategic, communication, marketing, decision-making and financial frameworks to support organisational resilience and to influence change.
- Can ethically lead, evaluate and perform in organisations through the application of leadership knowledge.
- Adapt, influence and implement value creation strategies that transform organisations and the people within it.
Scholarships
Apply now for the Waikato Management School Emerging Leaders Entrance Scholarship. Applications close end of January.
You can apply for the Waikato MBA if you have:
- A bachelor's degree with at least a B-minus grade average across the 300-level papers, or equivalent professional qualification; AND at least 3 years' management experience
- Met the English language requirements for Masters-level study. For more information, see https://www.waikato.ac.nz/study/apply/international/entry-requirements-for-international-students/
Note: You don't need to have 'manager' in your current or previous job titles. Your job could involve managing projects, processes or people. If you are unsure if you have the necessary experience, please email us a copy of your CV so we can assess your eligibility.
You will be invited to attend an interview with the Waikato MBA Director (in person or via Teams) before being admitted to this programme.
You will also need to provide the following documentation:
- A detailed CV that outlines your education and employment history that highlights leadership and management skills or experience.
- Two written letters of reference; one from your employer and the other can be from an individual of your choice.
- References should be from individuals who can comment on your managerial strengths, leadership potential and personal character. Please see this Guide for Referees.
International students can apply for the Waikato full-time MBA | Tauranga if you have:
- A bachelor’s degree with at least a B- average; and
- At least three years’ management experience.
You will also need to provide:
- A detailed CV.
- Two written references.
- Evidence that you meet the University of Waikato English language requirements, for example IELTS Academic overall score of 6.5 with no band below 6.0.
Applicants may be invited to attend a panel entry interview before being admitted to the programme.
International applicants should also check student visa requirements, insurance requirements and other information for studying in New Zealand.
Estimated fees
$50,107 per programme.
-
Domestic tuition fees
Approximate annual tuition fees and costs for domestic students enrolled in one year of full-time study.
Domestic tuition costs -
Scholarships
Visit our Scholarship finder for more information about possible scholarships.
Scholarships Finder
Relevant as of 28 August 2026.
All amounts are in New Zealand Dollars (NZD). Tuition fees shown are indicative only and may change. There are additional fees and charges related to enrolment. Please see the Table of Fees and Charges for more information. You will be sent an enrolment agreement which will confirm your fees. View information about fees free study.
Estimated fees
$65,700 per year
-
International tuition fees
Approximate annual tuition fees and costs for international students enrolled in one year of full-time study.
International tuition costs -
Scholarships
Visit our Scholarship finder for more information about possible scholarships.
Scholarships Finder
Relevant as of 28 August 2026.
All amounts are in New Zealand Dollars (NZD). Tuition fees shown are indicative only and may change. There are additional fees and charges related to enrolment. Please see the Table of Fees and Charges for more information. You will be sent an enrolment agreement which will confirm your fees.
Graduates of the Master of Business Administration will be future-focused leaders who:
- Have insight and curiosity to develop values-led innovative ideas and solutions for business faced with complex global issues.
- Can translate ideas into impactful results for business.
- Are agile, resilient and ethical at all levels of decision-making.
- Are global citizens
- Can inspire and facilitate others to transform for positive change
- Demonstrate and utilise key strategic, communication, marketing, decision-making and financial frameworks to support organisational resilience and to influence change.
- Can ethically lead, evaluate and perform in organisations through the application of leadership knowledge.
- Adapt, influence and implement value creation strategies that transform organisations and the people within it.
Full-time MBA | Tauranga
Complete your MBA in just 12 months
The 12 month, full-time MBA is designed for professionals seeking an intensive and immersive learning experience that accelerates leadership development and career growth.
Rather than fitting study around work, you will step into a full-time MBA experience that combines practical learning, industry engagement, and future-focused leadership development.
Note: This is the only MBA study option open to international students.
Learn where NZ’s economy happens
Study in one of New Zealand's most dynamic, fastest-growing economic regions and gain exposure to industries driving the country's future.
From exports and logistics to agribusiness, food production and infrastructure development, Tauranga provides valuable insight into how organisations create value in a rapidly changing world.
Tauranga provides a distinctive business environment that complements classroom learning with real-world context.
Immersive learning experience
Over 12 months, study alongside a cohort of like-minded professionals in a highly engaging learning environment that is designed to maximise your personal and professional growth.
Global leadership grounded in Aotearoa New Zealand
The Full-time MBA combines international business perspectives with New Zealand’s unique cultural and business environment.
Part-time MBA | Hamilton
Advance your career while you work
The Part-time MBA is designed for professionals who want to continue building their careers while developing the skills required for more senior leadership positions.
Flexible delivery
Classes mix face-to-face and online learning, so you can fit study around your job. Expect workshops, case studies, group discussions, and practical projects you can apply directly in your own workplace.
Immediate workplace impact
Apply new frameworks, insights and leadership approaches directly to your organisation throughout the programme.
Strengthen your professional network
Expand your professional connections and learn alongside peers facing similar leadership and business challenges.
Why choose the Waikato MBA?
Top 1% globally
Study with world-class lecturers from Waikato Management School, which is in the top 1% of business schools globally with our prestigious Triple Crown Accreditation held since 2005.
MBA Study Tour
A highlight of the Waikato MBA is the optional Study Tour, where you can travel to another country for one week and enjoy daily field trips to export-led businesses and meet local leaders.
Smaller cohorts
Smaller cohort sizes means a higher level of interaction with your lecturers and classmates through practical and group assignments, and more personalised support when you need it.
Want to know more?
Course content
Whichever pathway you choose, you will graduate with the same internationally recognised qualification.
Both pathways include:
Learning through real business challenges
The Waikato MBA places practical application at the centre of the learning experience. Students have opportunities to participate in:
- High Impact Project
- MBA Case Competition
- Global Business Experience
- Industry-connected learning experiences
- Optional MBA International Study Tour (additional cost)
These experiences help students apply their learning to real organisational challenges while developing practical leadership capability and commercial confidence.
Three themes. One MBA.
The curriculum is built around three integrated themes:
Frameworks
Develop the analytical tools, business models and strategic thinking needed to evaluate complex challenges and identify opportunities for growth.
Leadership
Build your ability to lead people, teams and organisations through change, growth and uncertainty.
Value Creation
Learn how successful organisations create long-term value for customers, stakeholders and communities.
Topics you'll explore
Students explore areas such as:
- Leadership and organisational transformation
- Understanding the global business environment
- Strategic management and marketing
- Financial analysis and performance
- People and productivity
- Global business and international markets
- Governance and responsible leadership
- Contemporary issues shaping the future of business and leadership.
The diversity of perspectives within each MBA cohort creates valuable opportunities to learn from peers, broaden your thinking and build lifelong professional networks.
Contact us
If you have questions, or want to book a chat with us, please fill out the enquiry form and we'll get back to you soon.
MBA Emerging Leaders Entrance Scholarship
A $10,000 scholarship awarded to two new students of the Waikato MBA, designed to support emerging leaders from the business, public community and iwi sectors. Open for applications October to January each year.
What our graduates say
Waikato MBA global accreditations
AACSB accredited
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AMBA accredited
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EQUIS accredited
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