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MHSHP
Master of Health, Sport and Human Performance

The Master of Health, Sport and Human Performance will set you up with a research-based qualification that will teach you to critically examine how political, cultural, social and economic factors influence the meaning and nature of sport, exercise and leisure.

While studying the Master of Health, Sport & Human Performance (MHSHP), you'll explore how sociological perspectives; psychological and physiological factors influence movement and performance in sport and exercise. Throughout your course of study you'll receive opportunities to get involved in real world research to make a difference in people’s lives, as well as connect with elite athletes and teams.

Te Huataki Waiora School of Health boasts world-renowned active researchers and lecturers who have international expertise and reputations. Throughout your course of study you'll receive opportunities to get involved in real-world research to make a difference in people’s lives, as well as equipping you with the practical skills to work in contexts that are relevant to you.

You will work in our high-tech laboratories at the Cambridge Avantidrome or the University of Waikato Adams Centre for High Performance in Tauranga, and will benefit from our collaborative relationships established with local organisations. These partnerships bring about opportunities for you to connect with elite athletes and teams for research including; Waikato Chiefs, BoP Magic, Cycling NZ and community organisations such as Parafed Waikato, Sport Waikato and working relationships with Paralympics New Zealand and Special Olympics New Zealand.

The MHSHP is a flexible degree, giving you the option to tailor the programme to meet your needs. Our staff hold the expertise to supervise a diverse range of projects, and you have the option of completing your degree over one year full-time, or part time while working.

Study flexibly

At masters level you can study a range of papers. The MHSHP usually comprises 180 points (500 level) including required and optional papers. You are required to choose one or more option(s) from the below. You can also pursue an area of interest in greater depth by undertaking a research project or thesis, under one of our expert supervisors. You are required to take a research methods paper.

Parts of this qualification can be completed in Tauranga.

Apply to enrol

Key information

Years: 1.5
MHSHP Study Locations:Hamilton, Tauranga
Papers offered differ by location. The Catalogue of Papers has full location info.
Start Dates: Trimester A (March)
Estimated Fees* (Domestic): $7,626 - $9,292 per year
See if you're eligible for fees-free study in your first year
Estimated Fees* (International): $35,900 (120 pts)
$53,855 (180 pts)
Entry Requirements: Postgraduate International
Area of Study:
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.

Degree Planner

Degree planner — MHSHP - including 60 point dissertation paper

Course Work

Focus Paper

Focus Paper

Option Paper*

Research

Research Methods

Dissertation 60 points

  • Focus Paper
  • Option Paper*
  • Research Methods
  • Dissertation

Degree planner — MHSHP - including 90 point thesis paper

Course Work

Focus Paper

Focus Paper

Research

Research Methods

Thesis 90 points

  • Focus Paper
  • Research Methods
  • Thesis**

Degree planner — MHSHP - including 120 point thesis paper

Course Work

Focus Paper

Research

Research Methods

Thesis 120 points

  • Focus Paper
  • Research Methods
  • Thesis**


Choose a main subject

Career opportunities

  • Applied Exercise Scientist/ Exercise Physiologist
  • Coach
  • Coach Educator
  • Coach Developer
  • Health, Physical Education or Dance Teacher
  • Human Movement or High Performance Manager
  • Outdoor Education Instructor/manager
  • Researcher in Health, Sport and Human Movement
  • Strength and Conditioning Coach

The MHSHP can be partially completed in Tauranga. You will work in our high-tech laboratory at the University of Waikato Adams Centre for High Performance which was established in partnership with the Tauranga City Council. It features a state-of-the-art chamber that allows for manipulation of heat, humidity and altitude for research, teaching and athlete acclimatisation purposes.


Scholarships and prizes

Visit our Scholarship Finder for information about possible scholarships

Find your scholarship


Graduate study options

PhD in Health, Sport and Human Performance


See the University of Waikato Calendar for all Regulations for the Master of Health, Sport and Human Performance.

To complete a MHSHP:

  • Students who qualified with a BHSHP must gain a further 180 points at 500 level.
  • Students who qualified with a BHSHP with at least second class honours (second division) or a PGDip Health, Sport and Human Performance must gain a further 120 points at 500 level.
  • All students must include a thesis (120 or 90 points), a dissertation (90 points) or a directed study (30 points).
  • All students must complete the papers prescribed in the University of Waikato Catalogue of Papers.

  1. Physiology of Exercise and training adaptation, Dr Martyn Beaven
  2. Coaching research, Dr Robert Townsend
  3. Biomechanics and Injury Prevention, Dr Kim Hebert-Losier
  4. Sport and movement researchers, Dr Holly Thorpe and Dr Belinda Wheaton (Marsden Research Grant recipient researching sport in sites of war, conflict and disaster)
  5. Sleep and Energy Availability in Athletes, Dr Shannon O'Donnell
  6. Strength and Conditioning, Dr Daniel McMaster

Contacts

Te Huataki Waiora School of Health

Division Registrar
Email: [email protected]

Postgraduate Advisor 
Dr Robert Townsend
Phone +64 7 838 4466 ext 9491
Room: TT.6.13
Email: [email protected]

Have a chat with one of our friendly advisers to help you plan your degree.

Phone: +64 7 807 9275
Email: [email protected]

Enquire Now