Quality Systems

Quality Systems is a comprehensive postgraduate program at Massey University designed to equip students with advanced knowledge and practical skills in the field of quality management and systems assurance. This programme covers a broad range of topics including quality planning, assurance, control, and improvement techniques essential for contemporary businesses striving for excellence. Students will explore the principles of quality management systems such as ISO 9001, learn to implement effective quality strategies, and develop competencies in identifying and addressing quality issues within diverse organizational contexts. The curriculum emphasizes a systems thinking approach, integrating quality management principles with supply chain, process optimization, and risk management practices to prepare graduates for leadership roles in various sectors. Through a combination of theoretical coursework and hands-on projects, students gain practical experience in designing, auditing, and improving quality systems. The programme also fosters critical analytical skills, enabling students to assess organizational processes, develop solutions for continuous improvement, and ensure compliance with industry standards. With a focus on practical application and industry relevance, the Quality Systems programme prepares graduates to contribute effectively to quality assurance, compliance, regulatory affairs, and continuous improvement initiatives in manufacturing, service industries, healthcare, and government agencies. The programme offers flexible learning options, including on-campus and online courses, to accommodate working professionals seeking to advance their careers. Graduates will be well-equipped to pursue positions such as quality managers, quality engineers, compliance officers, and consultants, or to undertake further research in quality management and related disciplines. Through its rigorous curriculum and expert faculty, the Quality Systems programme at Massey University aims to produce industry-ready professionals who can lead and innovate in the ever-evolving landscape of quality assurance and systems management.

This programme focuses on developing critical awareness of and expertise in the following areas:

• quality management and its component aspects (inspection, quality control, assurance and continual improvement).
• contemporary quality thinking and methods including ISO systems, statistical thinking, systems thinking, Business Excellence, lean and six sigma improvement.
• the application of management theory to quality systems
• ability to conduct self-directed research in an aspect of quality management theory or practice
• research methods
• management of people undertaking quality projects and the people-related aspects of quality programme implementation

Topics you will study include quality management, statistical methods for quality and six sigma performance improvement, service quality, quality in human resource management and supply chain systems analysis. A research methods course gives you the skills to undertake in-depth research, followed by your own in-depth research (thesis) on an area of interest to you.

Admission to the Master of Quality Systems (180 credits) requires you to have a relevant bachelor degree, or close equivalent, with a minimum B average in your majoring 300 level courses.

Admission to the 120 credit Master of Quality Systems requires you to have a minimum B average for any of the following:

• a relevant bachelor degree in a related field and a minimum of 5 years’ professional experience in quality management or a related area; or
• a relevant bachelor’s degree with Honours; or
• a Postgraduate Diploma in Quality Systems, or equivalent qualification.

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 Science in Quality Systems at Massey University is a well-regarded undergraduate programme designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in quality management roles across various industries. The programme provides a comprehensive understanding of quality principles, standards, and frameworks, including international standards such as ISO 9001, and emphasizes the importance of continuous improvement in organizational processes. Students learn about quality auditing, compliance, risk management, and data analysis, preparing them to implement effective quality control systems within diverse operational environments. The curriculum combines theoretical foundations with practical applications, often incorporating case studies, industry projects, and internships to ensure students develop hands-on experience. Graduates of this programme are equipped to pursue careers in sectors such as manufacturing, healthcare, food production, and service industries, where quality assurance is critical to business success and customer satisfaction. The programme also aims to foster leadership qualities and strategic thinking, enabling graduates to contribute to organizational excellence and innovation. Massey University’s strong links with industry partners facilitate student engagement with real-world challenges, enhancing employability upon graduation. The programme is suitable for individuals interested in pursuing a career that supports continuous improvement and operational excellence, or for those seeking to develop their expertise in quality systems to advance within their current roles. Overall, the Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems at Massey University offers a balanced blend of academic rigour and practical relevance, ensuring students are well-prepared to meet the demands of quality management professions in a globalized economy.