Master of Policy and Governance
- Degree Structure - Start In
- Semester 1 (February)
UC's Master of Policy and Governance (MPAG) provides advanced interdisciplinary training if you want to progress in local, regional, national, and third sector/not-for-profit roles in policy and governance. Learn more about studying a Master of Policy and Governance through our Te Kaupeka Toi Tangata | Faculty of Arts.
180
Drawing on UC's teaching and research strengths in Political Science and International Relations, graduates can obtain a professional qualification in public policy and strategic decision making.
This Master's programme will provide advanced interdisciplinary training in just one year for those wishing to progress in local, regional, national, and third sector/not-for-profit roles in policy and governance.
UC also offers a Master of International Relations and Diplomacy for those interested in careers in international and global affairs.
To enrol, you will need a bachelor's degree in any subject, normally with at least a B Grade Point Average in 60 points of 300-level courses in the majoring subject, or other equivalent qualifications. All students also need approval to enrol.
If English is your additional language, you are also required to meet UC's English language requirements.
For the full entry requirements, see the Regulations for the Master of Policy and Governance or use the admission requirements checker.
You can apply online at myUC.
See Admission and enrolment for all information on enrolling at UC.
The Master of Policy and Governance (MPAG) comprises 180 points. You can decide on the level of research that makes up their programme, choosing one of two options:
You will start studies in February, and the normal duration would be full-time for 1 year. However, with approval, you can study part-time up to a maximum of 3 years.
For full requirements, see the Regulations for the Master of Policy and Governance.
2024 tuition fee estimate: $11,858 - $11,998 (180 points)
2025 tuition fee estimate: $12,570 - $12,718 (180 points)
2024 Special Programme Fee: $46,350 (180 points)
2025 Special Programme Fee: $48,600 (180 points)
Compulsory course
Elective courses
Research course
Choose one of:
To complete POLS689 you will need approval from the MPAG Programme Director and good grades in your elective courses.
Te Whanga-nui-a-Tara Wellington field trip is a two-day trip, which includes meetings with senior figures in Government and Opposition, a variety of senior ministers, policy advisors, the Parliamentary Research library, and senior leaders, including the Prime Minister, and the Leader of the Opposition. The field trip also includes a formal networking and senior peer mentoring event with UC alumni now working in Te Whanga-nui-a-Tara Wellington. This is an effective professional networking event.
Two further regional field trips will be arranged, with local councils setting case study problems, and students working with community and groups to address this problem and report back on solutions to a panel of public and policy makers.
You can study a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Political Science and International Relations.
The MPAG caters perfectly for students interested in policy and governance careers in local, regional, and national government, and not-for-profit/volunteer sectors.
Graduates will leave UC having: