Master of Health Science

Nursing

A two-year (240 point) master's programme for registered nurses and health professionals, focusing on advanced clinical practice, leadership, and a customizable selection of specialties including mental health, primary and rural healthcare, Māori health, and nurse practitioner pathways.

NZ$11,328

inc GST

Enquire about international pricing


This course starts anytime

(240 Credits)


In-person study

Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting

Hamilton, Hamilton

It will take a total of 2 years

Background blur gradient small

Coming Soon: Nexties Explorer

Our AI-powered Explorer is almost ready. Soon, you’ll be able to build a dynamic profile of your skills, goals, and strengths, and get a curated selection of courses just for you.

More details

Unlock these abilities


Star graphic

Evidence-based change implementation

Develop skills in the implementation of evidence-based change within health practice.

Star graphic

Analytical and leadership skills

Become a high analytical thinker and build clinical and professional leadership abilities.

Star graphic

Professional contribution

Contribute to the national and international development of nursing as a profession.

What You're Signing Up For

The Master of Health Science (MHSc) at the University of Waikato is designed to prepare registered nurses and other health professionals for advanced clinical practice and leadership roles. The programme is highly flexible, offering multiple specialty pathways, including mental health, primary, community and rural healthcare, acute care, Māori health, older person health and rehabilitation, as well as options in child health, cancer care, education, and health management. There is a clear focus on supporting clinical, cultural and leadership development, especially for Māori and Pasifika nurses. Graduates may also become eligible to apply for registration as a Nurse Practitioner with the Nursing Council of New Zealand. The programme includes a mix of coursework, research, and (for Nurse Practitioner pathway) professional practice papers.

Course Content

  • Evidence-based clinical practice
  • Health leadership and management
  • Specialty pathways: mental health, primary care, community and rural healthcare, acute care, Māori health, older person health and rehabilitation
  • Child health, cancer care, palliative care, health education, health management
  • Indigenous worldviews and health equity
  • Research methods and structured research report
  • Nurse Practitioner professional practice pathway (optional)
  • Dissertation or thesis (unless on Nurse Practitioner pathway)

What you need to know first

Bachelor of Nursing (or equivalent)

B average across the final year of study

Industry icon

What sort of industry will this job lead to

  • Healthcare

  • Nursing

Employment opportunities icon

Future employment opportunities might be

  • Advanced practice nurse

  • Nurse practitioner (with eligibility to apply for registration)

  • Clinical nurse leader

  • Specialist nurse roles in mental health, primary care, rural healthcare, Māori health, older person health