Victoria University of Wellington

Master of Arts (Coursework)

Wellington, New Zealand 1 year Taught in English Open to international students

Why students choose this program

  • Taught in English
  • Scholarships available for international students
  • No application fee

About Master of Arts (Coursework)

Tuition fees for Master of Arts (Coursework) are 35,238 USD per year.

Explore your area of interest in more detail by studying for a Master of Arts (Coursework). Refine your research, writing, and analytical skills. The 180-point Master of Arts (Coursework) is a flexible qualification. You’ll take at least 90 points of 400-level courses. Your study programme can also include research, an internship, or work-integrated learning. You’ll have the opportunity to apply your knowledge in real settings and to build professional networks. Our Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences ranks 102nd in the world for Arts and Humanities in the latest QS World University Rankings. The Master of Arts (Coursework) suits people with a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Arts (Hons) who want to extend their study in their main area of focus. You'll need at least a B average in your Bachelor's degree for the subject you want to study. For some subjects you’ll need at least a B+ average to study at this level. The Master of Arts (Coursework) is part of a tiered family of qualifications that are staircased so that courses completed for each qualification can count towards the next step. You can enrol in one of the shorter qualifications initially, and build on your learning in your own time: If you'd like to focus on research, you can choose the 120-point Bachelor of Arts (Hons) followed by the 120-point, thesis-based Master of Arts. You’ll understand complex subject matter and investigate contemporary topics through research-based study, advanced coursework, work-integrated learning, or a research or creative portfolio. In a typical Master of Arts (Coursework), you’ll complete 120 points of 400-level courses, followed by a 60-point research project. But you can choose from four different pathways: Most courses in the Master of Arts (Coursework) are small seminars, taught face-to-face. A few courses may involve online teaching. Often there are fewer lectures than at undergraduate level, and classes are typically small and supportive. Our postgraduate programmes are designed to fit around your schedule. You can study full time, or part time if you’re a domestic student. A Master of Arts (Coursework) builds cultural awareness, analytical thinking, and the ability to work across cultures—skills that are valued in any field. You’ll be qualified to work in professional positions across the public, nonprofit, and private sectors, especially in roles that involve the use of knowledge in your chosen subject. You can get support to stay on top of your finances by downloading our money management resources or by meeting with one of our student finance advisers. We can show you how to manage your student loan or allowance, and help you sort out your budget. For students facing financial difficulties, we can help you apply for support from the Hardship Fund. Depending on your situation, you might also be able to get government or community support. At the end of your Master's you can choose to continue your research and apply to do a PhD, either in New Zealand or overseas. In exceptional circumstances you may be able to upgrade to a PhD during your Master's study. A PhD is the highest academic qualification offered by the Faculty. You’ll carry out original and sustained research under supervision from world-class academics. Postgraduate study at Victoria University of Wellington will help you build valuable relationships and networks with peers, university staff, and future colleagues. You’ll have opportunities to attend events, seminars, workshops, and social functions. The Postgraduate Students’ Association can also give you information on study at the University and provides a voice for you on campus. I am a citizen of‐ Choose ‐AfghanistanAlbaniaAlgeriaAmerican SamoaAndorraAngolaAnguillaAntarcticaAntigua and BarbudaArgentinaArmeniaArubaAustraliaAustriaAzerbaijanBahamasBahrainBangladeshBarbadosBelarusBelgiumBelizeBeninBermudaBhutanBolivia (Plurinational State of)Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and SabaBosnia and Herzeg

About Victoria University of Wellington

Victoria University of Wellington, established in 1897 and situated in New Zealand’s capital, is a research-led university serving a diverse student body of around 23,000. The university is known for strengths in arts, law, humanities, social sciences and research across public policy and environmental disciplines, offering a blend of rigorous scholarship and practical engagement with national institutions.

The Wellington campus places students at the heart of a lively cultural and political city, where internships, public-sector connections and creative industries are readily accessible. Academic programmes are complemented by research centres and community-facing projects, and teaching emphasises critical thinking, communication and transferable skills that prepare graduates for varied careers both locally and internationally.

For international students, the university provides support services including orientation, academic help and pathways into student life in Wellington. The city’s compact size, cultural amenities and outdoor opportunities make it friendly for newcomers. Overall, Victoria University of Wellington suits students seeking high-quality research and teaching in a capital-city setting that combines academic rigor with opportunities for professional and civic engagement.

Scholarships You Could Apply For at Victoria University of Wellington

Funding relevant to this program — the university's own awards and popular scholarships for studying in New Zealand.

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New Zealand · University

Hunter Postgraduate Scholarship

Victoria University of Wellington

Up to NZD 5,000 towards fees

Master's
Open · Next: No separate application — drawn from Wellington Master's by Thesis Scholarship applicants (1 November)
New Zealand · University

VUW Postgraduate International Scholarship

Victoria University of Wellington

NZD 10,000 towards tuition fees

Master's
Open · Next: No fixed date — same as the relevant programme application closing date; assessed automatically on application
New Zealand · University

Wellington Master's by Thesis Scholarship

Victoria University of Wellington

NZD 15,000/month

Master's
Open · Next: 1 November annually
New Zealand · University

Victoria University of Wellington Study Abroad Scholarship

Victoria University of Wellington

NZD 1,000

Master's
Open · Next: Trimester 1: 16 January; Trimester 2: 1 May
Browse all scholarships →

English Test Requirement

IELTS 6.5 overall, no band below 6.0

Master of Arts (Coursework): Frequently Asked Questions

What are the fees for Master of Arts (Coursework)?
Tuition: USD 35,237.75 per year.
Is Master of Arts (Coursework) available online?
This is an on-campus program at Victoria University of Wellington in Wellington.

Similar Programs You Can Apply To

Direct application via Global Admissions is not available for this program. Browse similar partner programs below or visit the university's site to apply directly.

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