Deepen your understanding of philosophy
Philosophy explores big questions about truth, beauty, justice, the mind, and reality. In postgraduate study, you'll deepen your understanding and add your own ideas to these debates.
You'll learn to think more clearly, argue more persuasively, and approach complex issues with confidence—skills that are valuable in many careers.
The programme focuses on current, real-world topics like experimental philosophy, ethics, art, and the challenges posed by digital and biological advancements. You’ll apply your knowledge to today’s biggest questions.
Choose your study path
There are several ways you can study Postgraduate Philosophy with us. Postgraduate study gives you the flexibility to focus on either coursework or research, depending on your goals and interests.
When you study by coursework, you'll learn in a structured way through lectures, tutorials, assignments, and exams. When you do a research degree, you'll do independent research while working closely with an academic supervisor.
Focus on coursework
- Graduate Certificate in Arts
- Graduate Diploma in Arts
- Postgraduate Certificate in Arts
- Postgraduate Diploma in Arts
- Master of Arts (coursework)
- Master of Philosophy, Politics, and Economics
Focus on research
- Bachelor of Arts with Honours
- Master of Arts (by thesis)
- Doctor of Philosophy
Qualification support and advice
We can help you match your interests and career goals with the right course of study.
If you’re a new student, talk to a Future Student Adviser through our enquiry form.
If you’re already studying with us, talk to Tītoko—Student Success.
For the research portion of your study, you’ll need a supervisor to help guide your research. Your programme coordinator will work with you to find the right person.
Study options
Find out how you can study Postgraduate Philosophy at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.
Future careers
Postgraduate study in Philosophy develops your analytical thinking, reasoning, and communication skills. These skills are valued across a wide range of sectors—from law and business to human rights, education, and the arts.
If you want to be a teacher, you'll need a postgraduate qualification. If secondary school teaching is your goal, make sure you complete at least two approved teachable subjects during your degree.
More career information
Find out more about careers.
The government careers website, Tahatū, offers more information about jobs, salaries, and current opportunities.
Scholarships
You may be able to get a scholarship to help fund your studies.
We have postgraduate and doctoral scholarships available, as well as specialised scholarships for different groups and subject areas. If nothing fits right now, something may suit you later.
We encourage you to apply. It's a straightforward process, and it could make a real difference.
Scholarships for Arts and Humanities
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This scholarship is offered to women graduates intending to study at Victoria University of Wellington in a course leading to a higher degree, which includes research in some field related to the general purpose of teaching or promoting the knowledge of home or domestic science among the women of New Zealand (e.g. Sociology, Psychology, Education or Science).
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This scholarship has been established in honour of Sir Lloyd Geering to support students undertaking postgraduate study in Religious Studies. Sir Lloyd was the founding Professor of Religious Studies at Victoria University of Wellington in 1971. He contributed greatly to the study of religion in New Zealand and to thinking about transformations of religion in modernity. The horizons of his...
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The Jack Pearce Research Scholarship in History (the "scholarship") was established through the Victoria University of Wellington Foundation and offers students the opportunity to gain postgraduate experience in the area of History.
Scholarships for international students
We are currently offering a NZ$10,000 VUW Postgraduate International Scholarship to all eligible international students enrolling in a Master’s degree or Postgraduate Diploma programme.
Your scholarship will be processed automatically when your programme application is accepted, and the amount will be deducted from your tuition fees.
Other scholarships
We also have postgraduate and doctoral scholarships available, as well as specialised scholarships for different groups and subject areas. If nothing fits right now, something may suit you later.
We encourage you to apply. It's a straightforward process, and it could make a real difference.
Scholarships for Arts and Humanities
-
This scholarship is offered to women graduates intending to study at Victoria University of Wellington in a course leading to a higher degree, which includes research in some field related to the general purpose of teaching or promoting the knowledge of home or domestic science among the women of New Zealand (e.g. Sociology, Psychology, Education or Science).
-
This scholarship has been established in honour of Sir Lloyd Geering to support students undertaking postgraduate study in Religious Studies. Sir Lloyd was the founding Professor of Religious Studies at Victoria University of Wellington in 1971. He contributed greatly to the study of religion in New Zealand and to thinking about transformations of religion in modernity. The horizons of his...
-
The Jack Pearce Research Scholarship in History (the "scholarship") was established through the Victoria University of Wellington Foundation and offers students the opportunity to gain postgraduate experience in the area of History.
Join our postgraduate community
The Postgraduate Students’ Association provides a voice for you on campus and information on studying at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.
Postgraduate Students’ Association
MAI ki Pōneke
MAI ki Pōneke are part of an international network of Māori and Indigenous postgraduate students. They provide advice, support, and information to Indigenous postgraduate students of all levels, as well as those thinking about enrolling.
Sondra Bacharach
Associate Professor
Ramon Das
Senior Lecturer
Richard Joyce
Professor
Simon Keller
Professor of Philosophy
Edwin Mares
Professor
Cei Maslen
Senior Lecturer
Jesse Spafford
Senior Lecturer
Justin Sytsma
Associate Professor
Get help to manage your finances
We can help you:
- budget your money
- manage your student loan or allowance
- work out your accommodation payment schedule.
If you’re facing financial difficulties, we can help you apply for the Hardship Fund.
You may be eligible for government or community support, too.
Apply for a New Zealand study visa
You’ll need to apply for a study visa if you plan to study with us as an international student.
You should apply for your visa after you’ve received your Offer of Place, and before you come to New Zealand.