COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Science (MSc) at the University of Canterbury is a research-oriented degree comprising two parts: Part I includes coursework, and Part II is focused on a thesis or dissertation. Students must successfully complete Part I before progressing to Part II, although in some subjects, only Part II is required. The entire degree must be completed within two years full-time or up to four years part-time. Part I must be completed full-time within one year, while Part II can be completed full-time in one to two years or part-time (with approval) over a maximum of four years. Most departments offer a February and July start for Part I, while Part II can usually begin at any time. However, certain subjects—such as Biochemistry, Chemistry, Industrial and Organisational Psychology (with applications due by 1 November), and Speech and Language Sciences—have a February-only intake. The Child and Family Psychology major also requires early application, typically by early October, and a February start is strongly recommended, with July starts considered case by case. The MSc offers a broad range of subjects, including both traditional and emerging fields like Astronomy, Biotechnology, Data Science, Disaster Risk and Resilience, Environmental Science, Geospatial Data Science, and Water Science and Management. Students can tailor their studies based on their academic interests and career goals. For a full list of course requirements and subject options, refer to the official Schedule for the Master of Science or contact Te Kaupeka Pūtaiao | Faculty of Science for further guidance.