Course details

Summary

The Master of Arts involves advanced study in an Arts subject and is intended for those who want to deepen their knowledge of that subject. The degree also includes a substantial component of independent research.

Are you seeking the ability to think critically and communicate well? A Master of Arts (MA) from Waikato will teach you the skills to work independently and see a major project through to completion. These are characteristics that are highly sought after by employers.

Enrolling in a MA gives you the opportunity to engage in independent (but supervised) research in one or more of a wide range of Arts subjects. Graduating with an MA provides you with a gateway to a higher research degree or to a wide range of careers.

Philosophy

Philosophy is for thinkers and doers. It's about solving real-life problems, and applying intellectual rigour to how we understand and interact with others, society and the world. Studying Philosophy at Waikato will teach you how to learn, think and write clearly, argue vigorously, and question deeply held assumptions and beliefs.

The study of Philosophy involves tackling ethical and science-related issues, logic problems and debates about the nature of reality. It asks fundamental questions about what it means to be human, at this time and in this place. Questions such as: what is truth; what is reality; what is the mind; and what is good?

Employers understand the value of graduates who can think, and decide, for themselves. Waikato Philosophy graduates have the practical and analytical skills needed for careers within the public and private, health, business, environmental, publishing, information technology and education sectors, among others.

Career opportunities

• Business Consultant
• Editor
• Environmental Consultant
• Health Policy Adviser
• Policy Analyst
• Public Relations Practitioner

Entry criteria

Following the successful completion of the BA or BA(Hons) you may apply for the Master of Arts degree. The MA is awarded with classes of honours.

To be admitted to the MA, you must have completed a Bachelor of Arts (or equivalent) or a Bachelor of Arts with Honours (or equivalent) in the same subject and must have achieved a satisfactory grade average – normally a B+ average or better.

You will also need to have appropriate supervision arranged.

English language requirements:

IELTS - 6.5 overall (no less than 6.0 in writing); iBT (internet based TOFEL) - 90 with a score of 22 in writing; Pearson PTE Academic- 65 with English language requirements no less than 58 for each communicative skill; From Waikato Pathways College - Successful completion of Level 8 with a B grade average in the Certificate of Attainment in Academic (CAAE) programme.