Master of Arts

The tuition fee is 23,492 USD per year, while applications for the Feb 2027 intake are open until Dec 8, 2026.

Overview

The Master of Arts (Coursework) – MA (CW) – is a flexible, 180-point programme from the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, first offered from 2027. It suits Bachelor of Arts graduates who want to extend their study through advanced coursework, research, an internship, or work-integrated learning.

Programme highlights

• The Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences ranks 102nd in the world for Arts and Humanities in the QS World University Rankings
• Choose from subjects including Art History, Classical Studies, Cultural Anthropology, Economics, Education, English, Environmental Humanities, Film, Geography, History, Linguistics, Mathematics, Media Studies, Music, Pacific Studies, Philosophy, Social Policy, Sociology, Study of Religion and Theatre
• Choose from four study pathways combining coursework, a research project, an internship or a 90-point thesis
• Part of a staircased family with the Postgraduate Certificate and Postgraduate Diploma in Arts
• Graduates work across government, NGOs, media, technology, arts and cultural institutions and consulting

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.