UNIVERSITY OF CANTERBURY · NEW ZEALAND
Sociology and Anthropology Studies
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
12 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
The University of Canterbury offers study options in Sociology and Anthropology. At the undergraduate level, you can choose to major in either discipline, with opportunities to combine courses with related subjects like Media and Communication, Political Science, Māori and Indigenous Studies, and more. Postgraduate study allows for further specialisation. A BA Honours in Sociology involves a year of intensive study after completing a bachelor's degree, focusing on research skills and in-depth knowledge. Master of Arts (MA) in Sociology is a thesis-only degree requiring independent research of approximately 30,000 words, typically completed within one year full-time or two years part-time. A PhD in Sociology offers a structured environment for original research and contribution to knowledge under academic supervision. You can also combine Sociology or Anthropology with other fields of study, such as Criminal Justice.
Careers
A degree in Sociology or Anthropology equips you with transferable skills relevant to many employment sectors. These skills include problem analysis, research and data management, effective communication, human relations, and leadership.
- Leadership and management roles in business, non-profit agencies, and government
- Research analysts
- Survey researchers
- Urban planners
- Community developers
- Criminologists
- Demographers
- Counsellors
- Therapists
- Programme directors in social service agencies
- Social researchers in applied areas (e.g., health, urban regeneration)
- Academics and researchers in colleges and universities
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for a Master of Arts (MA) in Sociology?
- Admission to the MA in Sociology typically requires a first-class or a second-class (division 1) Honours degree. It is also important to identify and consult with a potential supervisor within the department.
- What are the tuition fees for international students?
- International tuition fees apply to students who are not citizens or residence class visa holders of New Zealand or Australia. Specific tuition fees for Sociology and Anthropology programmes are not detailed but are subject to international rates.
- How long does the MA in Sociology take to complete?
- The MA in Sociology is a thesis-only degree that typically takes one year of full-time study or two years of part-time study to complete.
- What career paths can I pursue with a degree in Sociology or Anthropology?
- A degree in Sociology or Anthropology equips you with skills for roles in leadership, management, research analysis, urban planning, community development, and social services, among others.
- Are there any scholarships available for postgraduate students in Sociology or Anthropology?
- Scholarships such as the C. Wright Mills Scholarship (Anthropology), Steve Luke Memorial Scholarship (Sociology), and the Ngāi Tahu Research Centre Postgraduate Scholarship may be available. Support for Pacific and female postgraduate students is also offered.
- What is the application process for postgraduate programmes?
- For postgraduate research degrees like MA and PhD, it is crucial to identify and contact a potential supervisor. You will then need to submit an online application form with supporting documents.
Entry requirements
Sociology HonoursA B grade average in 60 points in 300-level Sociology is normally required for admission to the BA(Hons) programme.
Master of Arts (Sociology)A first class or a second class (division 1) Honours degree is generally required for admission to the MA programme.
PhD (Sociology)A good academic record and the agreement of two supervisors are required for provisional enrolment.
Prospective MA candidates should identify and consult a possible supervisor within the department and contact the relevant postgraduate co-ordinator. PhD candidates also need to arrange supervision.
Fees
Tuition (international)International tuition fees apply to students who are not citizens or residence class visa holders of New Zealand or Australia, unless on an approved exchange programme or enrolled in a PhD while living in New Zealand.
Tuition (home)Domestic tuition fees apply to NZ citizens, Australian citizens, or those with NZ Residence Class Visa or Australian Permanent Residence who live in NZ while studying.
Living—
The MBA programme is approximately $43,931 (2026 rates, 180 points). Domestic students have a 'pay-as-you-learn' option. Specific tuition fees for Sociology and Anthropology programmes are not detailed but are subject to international or domestic rates.
How to apply
1. Identify Your ProgrammeDetermine whether you are interested in undergraduate Anthropology or Sociology, BA Honours, MA, or PhD.
2. Check Entry RequirementsReview the academic and English language requirements specific to your chosen programme. For postgraduate research degrees (MA and PhD), identifying a potential supervisor and their research interests is crucial.
3. Explore Fees and ScholarshipsUnderstand the tuition fees applicable to your status (domestic or international) and research available scholarships and funding opportunities.
4. Submit ApplicationFollow the university's application process, which typically involves submitting an online application form and supporting documents. For MA and PhD programmes, this may involve direct contact with potential supervisors.
5. EnrolmentOnce admitted, follow the enrolment procedures and deadlines provided by the university.
Scholarships
C. Wright Mills Scholarship—
Three Nations Conference Award—
Steve Luke Memorial Scholarship—
The Gough MBA Leaders Scholarship—
Graduate Women Canterbury (Inc.) Trust Board Scholarship—
Pacific Community Scholarship—
Ngāi Tahu Research Centre Postgraduate Scholarship—
Manaaki NZ Scholarships—
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for a Master of Arts (MA) in Sociology?
+
Admission to the MA in Sociology typically requires a first-class or a second-class (division 1) Honours degree. It is also important to identify and consult with a potential supervisor within the department.
What are the tuition fees for international students?
+
International tuition fees apply to students who are not citizens or residence class visa holders of New Zealand or Australia. Specific tuition fees for Sociology and Anthropology programmes are not detailed but are subject to international rates.
How long does the MA in Sociology take to complete?
+
The MA in Sociology is a thesis-only degree that typically takes one year of full-time study or two years of part-time study to complete.
What career paths can I pursue with a degree in Sociology or Anthropology?
+
A degree in Sociology or Anthropology equips you with skills for roles in leadership, management, research analysis, urban planning, community development, and social services, among others.
Are there any scholarships available for postgraduate students in Sociology or Anthropology?
+
Scholarships such as the C. Wright Mills Scholarship (Anthropology), Steve Luke Memorial Scholarship (Sociology), and the Ngāi Tahu Research Centre Postgraduate Scholarship may be available. Support for Pacific and female postgraduate students is also offered.
What is the application process for postgraduate programmes?
+
For postgraduate research degrees like MA and PhD, it is crucial to identify and contact a potential supervisor. You will then need to submit an online application form with supporting documents.