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Master of Science (MSc) in Earth Sciences

New Zealand

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What will I learn?

The Master of Science is valued for its flexibility and excellence, and can be tailored to suit your needs. You can select your papers from a range of subjects and the mix of research and taught papers are customised to suit your interests and goals.

Why study a MSc?

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 120 points in taught papers and a 60-point dissertation (research project).

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.

Why study Earth Sciences?

The University of Waikato is uniquely placed to offer a thorough grounding in all aspects of the Earth Sciences. We are situated close to both North Island coasts, a short drive from the active Taupo Volcanic Zone, at the heart of the richest New Zealand farming region, and have New Zealand's longest river on our doorstep. We are a leader in teaching and research related to the Earth’s environment, and offer you a learning experience that goes beyond the laboratory and lecture room - and out into the world. The Earth Sciences major at Waikato consists of four main sub-disciplines: geology, soil science, hydrology and coastal processes. The first two years concentrate on fundamental knowledge and skills across all subdisciplines. In your final year, you’ll have the option to specialise in a specific area. Facilities

As an Earth Sciences student at the University of Waikato, you will have access to the University's well-equipped laboratories, and will have the opportunity to examine features in the field and undertake field investigations using a wide range of techniques. You'll be working alongside, and learning from, well-respected researchers, industry professionals and academics. Build a successful career

As a graduate you will gain the knowledge and skills to pursue a wide range of careers. Earth Sciences graduates are spread across New Zealand and around the world, working in careers ranging from Earth resources' exploration to environmental management and planning, and from scientific research to teaching.

Career Opportunities

Coastal Engineer

Coastal Resource Manager

Engineering Geologist

Environmental Consultant

Geologist

Hazard Manager

Hydrologist

Soil Conservator

Volcanologist

Water Resource Manager

Which department am I in?

School of Science

Study options

Full Time (1 year)

Tuition fees
NZ$40,860.00 (US$ 24,498) per year
120 points: NZ $40,860; 180 points: NZ $61,290

*Price shown is for indicative purposes, please check with institution

Start date

March 2025, July 2025

Venue

Hamilton Campus

Gate 1, Knighton Road,

HAMILTON,

Hillcrest,

3216, New Zealand

Full Time (1 year)

Tuition fees
NZ$40,860.00 (US$ 24,498) per year
120 points: NZ $40,860; 180 points: NZ $61,290

*Price shown is for indicative purposes, please check with institution

Start date

March 2025, July 2025

Venue

Tauranga Campus

The University of Waikato,

101-121 Durham Street,

Tauranga,

3110, New Zealand

Entry requirements

For international students

Candidates for the Degree must have

  • qualified for the award of the degree of Bachelor of Science, or Bachelor of Science (Technology) of the University of Waikato with at least a B grade average across the 300 level papers, or for a qualification considered by the Academic Board to be equivalent, or
  • qualified for the award of the degree of Bachelor of Computing and Mathematical Sciences, or Bachelor of Computing and Mathematical Sciences with Honours, or Bachelor of Science with Honours with at least second class honours (second division), or for the award of the Postgraduate Diploma of the University of Waikato in a relevant subject with at least a B grade average, or for a qualification considered by the Academic Board to be equivalent, and
  • satisfied the prerequisites for graduate study in the subject(s) being presented for the Degree, at levels considered appropriate by the Academic Board.

In exceptional circumstances, based on academic merit and relevant experience, candidates who do not meet the requirements of these regulations may be considered for admission subject to the completion of any qualifying papers the Academic Board may prescribe which must be completed either prior to admission or concurrently.

English Language Requirements

  • an Academic IELTS Overall score of at least 6.5 (with no less than 6.0 in any band), or
  • a TOEFL iBT (Internet Based TOEFL) score of 90 with a Writing score of 21, or
  • a TOEFL iBT Home Edition overall score of 90 with a Writing score of 21, or
  • a B grade or better at Level 8 in the Certificate of Attainment in Academic English, or
  • a PTE Academic overall score of 56 with no band less than 46, or
  • a Michigan English Test (formally known as Michigan English Language Assessment Battery (MELAB)) minimum score of 59.

*There may be different IELTS requirements depending on your chosen course.

Pathways options

Offered by this university

The University of Waikato offers below pathways course for this subject
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About The University of Waikato

Student experience at the Waikato is rated Highly Satisfiable.

  • Based in New Zealand, one of the most peaceful countries.
  • Top 3 universities in New Zealand according to QS rankings
  • #1 in New Zealand for Research by QS rankings
  • Top 1 percent of business schools in the world

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