The School of History, Philosophy, Political Science and International Relations offers world-class, research-based programmes across its four disciplines.
The programmes are taught by academic staff who are recognised, both locally and globally, as leaders in their respective fields.
Our graduates are able to think critically and creatively, and communicate and lead effectively.
Pacific Islands Political Studies Association Conference Held at VUW
Studying Aotearoa New Zealand's parliament from inside the House
No place like home for eminent alumna Dr Jeya Wilson
Study with us
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Explore undergraduate study in History
Follow your interests, discover new possibilities, and shape your future with a bachelor’s degree. In undergraduate History courses, students learn about New Zealand and world history, pursue independent research, and strengthen critical thinking.
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Explore postgraduate study in History
Build on your bachelor's degree, advance your career, change direction, or pursue a passion with postgraduate study. Complete postgraduate study with scholars who specialise in a range of historical fields, with expertise in cultural, economic, social, and political history.
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Explore undergraduate study in Philosophy
Consider questions about the nature of reality and the mind, ethical and artistic value, the structure of logical arguments, and even the meaning of life—while learning to develop and defend your own philosophical ideas.
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Explore postgraduate study in Philosophy
Discover the range of postgraduate Philosophy options.
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International Relations and Politics
Politics is all about power—who has it, how they got it, what they do with it and how they share it. Get the tools to analyse and understand the political motivations at the root of the events shaping our world.
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Postgraduate Political Science and International Relations
Discover the range of postgraduate options in Political Science and International Relations—including PhDs and Masters degrees by coursework or research.
Our stories
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Queer activism in Aotearoa
Will Hansen is a PhD candidate in History, researching the histories of queer activism in Aotearoa from the 1960s through to the 2010s.
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Migration and political participation
Laura Veronica Moreno-Duran is researching the relationship between international migration and the political participation of Latin American immigrants.
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How migration shapes our society
Dr Ayca Arkilic examines the causes and consequences of international migration and equips her students with a deeper understanding of the world around them.
Newly elected Ngā Ahurei a Te Apārangi Fellows
Philosophy graduate Meredith Ross-James named a Rhodes Scholar
History Master’s Scholarship Fund
