Social Sciences

Our nationally and internationally recognised lecturers are at the forefront of their fields, exploring real-world issues that are relevant to society today.

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Why study Social Sciences?

The social sciences provide you with the tools to add value to society and to confront the more challenging topics of the modern world.

With a dynamic curriculum that is focused on fostering a diversity of skills and experiences, we aim to equip our students with the tools they need to excel in their careers and make a difference in the world.

New in 2024

Our exciting new Criminology major will be available for students in Hamilton, Tauranga and online from Trimester A 2024.

Students will gain an extensive understanding of how society responds to criminal conduct, the underlying reasons for criminality, and how social discourse and relationships influence the perception of the criminal justice system.

Come and study Criminology at the University of Waikato
Get extra support with our broad range of scholarships
Flexible teaching options to study on-campus or online
Learn from award winning professors
Commitment to high-quality research

Explore a wide range of programmes

Our students can work alongside top-rated teachers and internationally respected scholars, across eleven majors.

Kristie Baillie Waikato Bachelor of Social Sciences Honours majoring in Anthropology
Choose from a

Choose from a variety of degrees

These majors can be taken towards a Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Climate Change or a Bachelor of Social Sciences. Te Kura Aronui School of Social Sciences also offers the Bachelor of Environmental Planning.

Ready for the next level

Ready for the next level?

Enrolling in one of our postgraduate qualifications gives you the opportunity to engage in independent (but supervised) research in one or more of a wide range of subjects.