Postgraduate Studies

A postgraduate qualification from the University of Waikato will set you up for where the world is going. As a research intensive university with strong links to industry the University of Waikato provides the ideal environment for undertaking postgraduate study.

Taught or research-based study

Postgraduate study can be taught or research-based. A taught degree is a structured programme of study that consists of papers taught in lectures. Taught degrees are intended to develop knowledge or technique in a particular area of study. Research-based degrees offer you the opportunity to complete independent study and to explore a research topic with the assistance of a supervisor.

Higher degrees

If you are interested in undertaking research, the University of Waikato can support you by offering leading research facilities and supervision under some of New Zealand's leading researchers, check out our higher degrees research page for more information.

Higher research degrees application process

Applications for Higher Research Degree study, which includes the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), Doctor of Education (EdD),  Doctor of Juridical Science (SJD),  Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) and Masters of Philosophy (MPhil), can be received at any time, but applications will only be considered three times each year. Once your application has been approved, you can choose to enrol from the first day of any month between February and November.

When you apply to undertake a Higher Research Degree, your application will be assessed to check that you meet the admission criteria for Higher Research Degree study, as well as meeting the specific entry requirements for the qualification in which you wish to enrol.

The University of Waikato Doctoral Scholarship application process is now included in the Higher Degree application process, described below. When you apply for PhD, DMA (part 2) or EdD (part 2) study, you will have the opportunity to indicate if you would like to be considered for a University of Waikato Doctoral scholarship.

For further details on how to apply please read the Higher Degree Application Process.

Higher degree supervision

The University is responsible for providing suitable supervision for student research. Find out all you’ll need to know about supervision.

Research

The University of Waikato is one of New Zealand's major research organisations, playing a key role in the New Zealand economy and making a significant contribution to the international innovation system. Find out more about our Research and Expertise.

Postgraduate scholarships

The University of Waikato offers more than 70 scholarships for postgraduate study, including for both research and taught.

Postgraduate Students' Association

The Postgraduate Students’ Association (PGSA) represents all postgraduate interests at the University of Waikato. The PGSA works towards improving conditions at the University so that your postgraduate experience is positive and rewarding.

Postgraduate study guide

Download a copy of our postgraduate study guide for all you need to know about postgraduate study at Waikato.

Further information

• Dissertations and Theses
• Ethical Conduct in Human Research
• Find an Expert
• Maori PhD support: MAI ki Waikato
• Student Research Regulations
• Maori Graduate Support: Toi o Matariki