Master of Arts in Social Policy The University of Waikato - Hamilton Campus, New Zealand

The Master of Arts involves advanced study in an Arts subject and is intended for those who want to deepen their knowledge of that subject. The degree helps applicants to build the skills required to work in their chosen field.

Why study the Master of Arts?

Are you seeking the ability to think critically and communicate well? A Master of Arts (MA) from Waikato will teach you the skills to work independently and see a major project through to completion. These are characteristics that are highly sought after by employers.

Our comprehensive MA taught programme (180 points) is open to graduates from a full range of bachelor’s degrees, including arts, education, management, psychology, social sciences or sciences. You can select from a large number of different subjects, each designed to meet the needs of today's global job market.  These programmes are comprised of taught papers only meaning that you can improve your career prospects or switch your focus and potential earnings regardless of your previous academic experiences.

Major: Social Policy

Be a force for change. Study Social Policy at Waikato and develop a critical understanding of how policy-making impacts on every person, regardless of their age, ethnicity or gender – then learn how to influence it.

Why study Social Policy?

Studying Social Policy involves examining the issues that affect people and society. It analyses the policies and practices of politicians, public servants, governments and non-governmental agencies, and how they impact on communities and wider society. It takes a broad and encompassing approach, because social policy impacts on all parts of everyday life – from health and education to families, transport and housing, plus the systems and institutions that support them.

Your Social Policy studies at Waikato will cover why and how societies respond to problems such as poverty and unemployment. You'll take part in popular and recurring social policy debates, and gain an in-depth understanding of why social problems arise. You'll investigate and evaluate different ways of responding to those problems.

At the end of your studies, you'll be equipped to seek employment opportunities within government agencies, non-government organisations, tertiary education institutions, voluntary and community agencies, and groups advocating for social equity and change.