Humanities and Social Sciences

The Bachelor of Arts in Humanities and Social Sciences at Massey University offers students a comprehensive and flexible undergraduate program designed to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep understanding of human societies and cultural phenomena. This interdisciplinary degree provides a broad foundation in areas such as history, sociology, anthropology, political science, communications, and cultural studies, enabling graduates to explore diverse perspectives and engage thoughtfully with complex societal issues. The program is ideal for students who are passionate about understanding human behavior, societal developments, and cultural interactions, and who wish to prepare for careers in sectors such as education, media, public policy, community development, and beyond.

Students enrolled in this program benefit from innovative teaching methodologies, including contextual seminars, project-based learning, and opportunities for regional and international study exchanges. The curriculum is designed to be flexible, allowing students to tailor their studies to their interests and career aspirations through elective courses and specializations. The program emphasizes critical inquiry, research skills, and effective communication, equipping graduates with the competencies needed to analyze social trends and contribute meaningfully to societal well-being. Throughout their studies, students will have access to state-of-the-art facilities, dedicated academic support, and opportunities for practical experiences through internships and community engagement projects.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts in Humanities and Social Sciences are well-prepared to pursue advanced study or enter various professional fields that require a strong foundation in understanding human and social issues. The program nurtures global citizens who are thoughtful, ethical, and informed, capable of contributing positively to a diverse and interconnected world. By fostering an appreciation of cultural diversity and social responsibility, Massey's Humanities and Social Sciences degree aims to produce graduates who are not only academically competent but also socially conscious and adaptable to changing career landscapes.

The thesis is an integrated report of supervised work. If it consists of several studies or cases, the candidate shall demonstrate their relationship to one another. The thesis may consist of the candidate's published or unpublished material, or a combination of both

The PhD normally involves research for a minimum of three years full-time, or four years part-time. Research conducted for the Master's Degree may form part of the doctoral thesis.

The degree is awarded for a thesis which demonstrates the candidate's ability to carry out independent research which is a significant contribution to the knowledge and understanding of a field of study. The thesis shall be an integrated report of supervised work and if it consists of several studies or cases, their relationship to one another shall be demonstrated. The thesis may consist of the candidate's published or unpublished material or a combination of both.

A candidate for the degree shall have qualified for admission to a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree with First or Second Class Honours, Division I, or the equivalent.

Massey University Masterate Scholarship

Masterate Scholarships are offered for the purpose of encouraging postgraduate research at Massey University. Applicants must be enrolled or eligible to enrol full-time in a 120 credit research programme towards a Masters degree at Massey University.

Massey University Masterate Scholarship for Māori Students

Masterate Scholarships for Māori students are offered for the purpose of encouraging postgraduate research at Massey University. Applicants must be enrolled or eligible to enrol full-time in a 120 credit research programme towards a Masters degree.

The Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Humanities and Social Sciences at Massey University offers students an opportunity to engage in advanced study across a broad range of disciplines within the humanities and social sciences fields. This programme is designed for students who have already completed an undergraduate degree with a focus on humanities or social sciences, and who wish to deepen their understanding and research skills through a structured honours year. The programme typically emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, research methodologies, and discipline-specific knowledge, preparing graduates for further academic pursuits or diverse career pathways in areas such as education, public policy, cultural analysis, media, and community development.

Students enrolled in this honours programme can expect to undertake a significant research project or thesis under the supervision of academic staff, enabling them to develop independent research capabilities. The curriculum often includes coursework in research methods, advanced theory, and specialized topics aligned with the student’s interests within the humanities or social sciences. Massey University prides itself on its flexible learning options, including options for part-time study, which is advantageous for working students or those balancing other commitments. The programme also benefits from Massey’s robust academic community, providing access to experts across various disciplines, ensuring students receive high-quality mentorship and resources.

Graduates of this honours programme are well-positioned for postgraduate study, including master's and doctoral degrees, or for entering professional fields that value critical analysis, research competence, and a deep understanding of human social and cultural issues. The Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Humanities and Social Sciences at Massey University aims to cultivate intellectual autonomy, rigorous research skills, and a broader understanding of societal structures, making it a valuable qualification for students interested in making meaningful contributions to their communities and professions through informed and critical inquiry.