Set yourself up as a future business leader and rise to the top of your industry by developing expertise in a specialist subject.

The Master of Business (MBus) is a research-focused master’s degree that was previously called the Master of Management Studies (MMS). The MBus is open for enrolments to new students from 2025. If you have any questions, please email msc@waikato.ac.nz

180 points, 1.5 years; or 120 points, 1 year

Hamilton

Trimester A (February), Trimester B (July) or Trimester C (November)

Why study the Master of Business?

If you're looking to accelerate your professional career by gaining expertise in an area of business or management that you're passionate about, or you want to prepare for PhD study or a research career, this degree is ideal.

The Master of Business (MBus) will bring you closer to the frontiers of knowledge in your specialist field, and prepare you for leadership roles that require a high level of critical thinking and information analysis.

The degree typically includes a combination of both taught subject papers and a research dissertation (at least 30 points), but can also be taken as a full research thesis (120 points).

Normally all papers are taken within the same specialist subject area that you majored in for your undergraduate bachelor's degree.

If you've already been awarded an honours degree or postgraduate diploma in a relevant subject, you may be able to complete the Master of Business in only 120 points, instead of 180 points. Choose from the subjects listed below in the degree planners.

Learn from experienced lecturers who have research and consulting links with leading companies, NGOs and governments around the world.

Completing the Master of Business will put you on the right academic pathway for future PhD doctoral study.

 

Career Opportunities

  • Academic
  • Business analyst / consultant
  • Business development manager
  • Communications and engagement manager
  • Customer experience manager
  • Digital business or e-commerce manager
  • Corporate sustainability manager
  • Financial advisor / analyst
  • Human resources manager
  • Logistics / Supply chain manager
  • Marketing manager
  • Operations manager
  • Policy advisor / analyst (eg.government)
  • Public relations consultant
  • Researcher
  • Strategy and Investment Leader

180 points, 1.5 years; or 120 points, 1 year

Hamilton

Trimester A (February), Trimester B (July) or Trimester C (November)

Degree information

Plan your study Subjects Entry Requirements Fees and scholarships

Why study at The University of Waikato?

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Top 1% globally

Waikato Management School is in the top 1% of business schools globally with our prestigious Triple Crown Accreditation (EQUIS, AMBA and AACSB), which we've held since 2005.

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Internationally respected

Waikato is ranked in the world's top 125 universities for business and economics in the Times Higher Education World University Subject Rankings.

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Industry connections

Learn from passionate lecturers who are also active researchers, with strong consulting links to leading companies, NGOs and government departments.

Further study options

Graduates who complete the Master of Business with First Class or Second Class First Division Honours will be eligible to be considered for enrolment in a Doctor of Philosophy.

Contact us

International Enquiries

Monday to Friday 8:30am - 5pm

Management Student Centre

Monday to Friday 8.30am - 5.00pm
MSB.1.50, Waikato Management School, Hillcrest Road, University of Waikato, Hamilton