Course details

Summary

The Master of Science (MSc) normally takes 12-18 months of full-time study to complete. The degree requires 180 points, which is made up of 90 points in taught papers and a 90-point thesis (research project). This balance of theses to taught papers may be changed subject to permission from the graduate co-ordinator in your chosen discipline.

Study a MSc at Waikato University and you will enjoy more lab and field work, more one-on-one time with top academics and access to world-class research equipment. Our great industry contacts will also mean exciting collaborations with local, national and international companies and organisations.

This is an ideal degree for students wanting to improve their career opportunities, and seeking a qualification that is potentially not so research-heavy.

This qualification is taught at a level significantly in advance of undergraduate study, providing you with the challenges and knowledge needed to prepare for a successful career.

Build a successful career

Depending on the major completed and your particular interests, graduates of this degree may find employment in a range of science-related industries.

Career opportunities

• Local and Regional Council
• Crown Research Institutes
• Energy Companies
• Environmental Agencies
• Government Departments
• Biomedical/Pharmaceutical Industries
• Private Research Companies
• Food and Dairy Industries
• Agriculture and Fisheries

In the Faculty of Science & Engineering, Physics is taught at a post-graduate level. By studying with us you will develop a thorough understanding of theoretical physics and gain advanced knowledge in areas such as quantum theory and biophysics.

Many famous scientists, such as Einstein and Newton were physicists. Physicists are versed in mathematics, computer programming, experimental science and the design of complex instruments. They are among the most versatile scientists, able to easily cross boundaries into other disciplines such as chemistry, biology, medicine, Earth and planetary sciences. There are biophysicists, geophysicists, astrophysicists and neurophysicists.

At the University of Waikato our academic staff are leading the way in biophysics. both experimental and theoretical, including measuring and modelling the electrical activity in the brain for applications such as anaesthesia and transcranial magnetic stimulation.

Career opportunities

• Applications Engineer
• Avionics Engineer
• Electronics Engineer
• Medical Physicist
• Meteorologist
• Satellite Information Processor

Entry criteria

Admission requires a relevant Bachelors level qualification or equivalent.

If you do not hold the appropriate qualifications required for direct entry, you may be eligible to apply for a pathway via a Postgraduate Certificate or Diploma.

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.