University
University of OtagoMaster of Politics (MPols)
This course is available
On-Campus
Level of Study
Master's Degree
Duration
1 year
Next start date
Expected Mar 2027
Campus
Dunedin Campus
Summary
The Master of Politics (MPols) is an academically rigorous and intensive programme that provides an exciting opportunity for students of Politics to develop valuable research and communication skills, and to obtain a highly sought-after postgraduate qualification.
MPols students can choose between two different pathways: (i) papers and research dissertation (POLS590) or (ii) papers only, as set out below. Students may start the MPols degree at the beginning of semester 1 or semester 2.
Students enrol in either:
- POLS 501, POLS 590 and three further POLS 500-level papers, or
- POLS 501 and five further POLS 500-level papers.
Students may (with permission from the programme convener) substitute one POLS 500-level paper with a 30-point paper from another subject.
The research dissertation (POLS 590) is completed in one calendar year. The word limit is 20,000, exclusive of appendices, footnotes, tabular material, bibliography or equivalent.
Find more details, including information on admission, papers on offer, scholarships and prizes, here.
Entry criteria
General entry requirementsA university entrance qualification is essential for admission to the University of Otago for all types of programmes. You must also be at least 16 years of age by the first day of classes in your period of study and meet English language requirements.
Domestic studentsYou need to have met the New Zealand University Entrance standard, based on your achievement in secondary school or other prior study. Learn about the different categories for achieving University Entrance and what information you may need to provide with your application.
International studentsCheck recognised entry qualifications by country, and find out what documents you need to provide for a successful application.
English language requirementsAll students must be proficient in the use of English. If your first language is not English, there are several ways you may provide evidence of English proficiency, including through prior secondary or tertiary study, internationally recognised English language tests, and foundation language programmes.
The level of English proficiency required for undergraduate study is equivalent to an overall IELTS score of 6.0, with no individual band below 5.5.
For details about what is accepted as evidence of English proficiency, please refer to:
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