Master of Science (Research)

Summary

The Master of Science (Research) is an internationally-recognised qualification, suitable for students who want a complete research experience, coupled with taught papers. The Area of Study will depend upon your major.

A core feature of the degree is the development of independent research skills, including the collection and analysis of data and critical review of the relevant literature.

The MSc(Research) has either 180 points (Artificial Intelligence, Computer Science or Data Analytics) or 240 points (Biomedical Sciences, Chemistry, Earth Sciences, Ecology and Biodiversity, Environmental Sciences, Molecular and Cellular Biology, Mathematics, Psychology). First, you take a set of taught papers and then you spend the remaining period doing a 120-point research thesis. It normally takes one and half to two academic years of full-time study to complete, but you have the option to complete on a part-time basis.

Study an MSc(Research) 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.

Facilities

The University of Waikato’s School of Science is home to a suite of well-equipped, world-class laboratories. You will have the opportunity to use complex research equipment and facilities such as NMR spectroscopy, DNA sequencing and the University of Waikato Herbarium.

Study in Tauranga

Depending on the focus of your research, you could complete the research thesis portion of your MSc(Research) in Tauranga. Facilities there include the Coastal Marine Field Station.

The taught portion of the MSc(Research) is based in Hamilton only.

Practical experience

You will spend more time putting theory into practice in the laboratories and out in the field. Smaller class sizes in taught papers mean more one-on-one time with renowned academics.

The University of Waikato also boasts excellent industry collaborations with organisations such as NIWA, AgResearch, Plant and Food Research and Landcare Research. These strong relationships generate numerous research projects for MSc(Research) students, who are able to work on real issues with a real client.