Postgraduate studies
Research programme overview
A PhD is a higher degree awarded for a thesis presenting original research that is a significant contribution to scientific knowledge. The thesis must meet recognised international standards. The thesis is judged by two examiners, one of whom is normally from New Zealand. The examiners submit independent written reports on the thesis. The student then sits an oral examination conducted by one of the examiners. A PhD normally takes 3 years to complete. There is no coursework requirement.
A Masters thesis is expected to display a good general knowledge of the field of study. The thesis is judged by two examiners who submit written independent reports. A Masters thesis usually takes 1 year to complete.
Enrolment qualifications
To qualify to enrol for a PhD you must have a Bachelors or Masters degree from a New Zealand university with first or second class honours (or the equivalent). Students from outside New Zealand must have met an equivalent standard.
To qualify to enrol for a research Masters degree you must have completed a bachelors degree with honours or a Postgraduate Diploma or Masters part I (this is equivalent to a PGDipSci). Students from outside New Zealand must have met an equivalent standard.
If English is not your first language you must also meet the University's English language requirements.