Advance understanding of human behaviour
Study in world-class facilities, including specialised psychology laboratories, and learn from lecturers with international reputations as leaders in the field.
Develop your skills in critical thinking, analysis, statistics, and communication, while expanding your knowledge of—and contributing to—the science behind human behaviour.
Work on active research with world-renowned experts, and receive the best supervision possible. Graduate with well-developed research skills and the ability to critically evaluate information—which you’ll be able to apply to work in any field.
Choose your study path
Depending on what you have studied previously, you may be able to focus on one of these areas of Psychology at postgraduate level:
- cognitive
- behavioural
- social
- developmental
- cross-cultural
- clinical
- forensic
- personality
- neuroscience
- research methods
- work and organisations
Build on your undergraduate degree
If you have a degree with a Psychology major, and meet entry requirements, you can apply to the Psychology Honours programme. Completing an Honours year will prepare you to go on to further advanced study, including a Master’s (by thesis) or Clinical Psychology. It will also give you the skills to start a career in general psychology research or a related area.
Alternatively, you can apply to start a two-year specialised Master of Science directly from your undergraduate degree. This programme includes coursework in Part 1 and a thesis in Part 2. You can choose to specialise in:
You may also be able to apply to study Clinical Psychology after Part 1 of your Master’s programme. Talk to the programme director about your options before you apply.
Train to be a clinical psychologist
After your Honours year, or in the first year of your Master’s, you can apply to join the Clinical Psychology programme. You’ll complete the Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Psychology as well as completing a Master’s thesis or PhD thesis in Psychology.
You can also apply to the programme after you complete your Master’s.
Conduct advanced research for a PhD
An MSc in Psychology is one pathway to doctoral research. Another pathway is achieving a high grade in the Psychology Honours year.
Health Psychology and Educational Psychology
You can train to qualify as an educational psychologist or a health psychologist. These specialisations can build on your Psychology degree, but they are delivered through other Schools within the University.
Change focus to study Psychology
If you have an undergraduate degree in a different area, you can complete a Graduate Certificate or Diploma in Science or Arts with Psychology as your subject. With the right courses and grades, you’ll then be able to apply for postgraduate study in Psychology without needing to complete another degree first.
If you’re considering this option, talk to us to make sure you include the right courses in your Certificate or Diploma programme.
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 Psychology at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.
Globally ranked
Our Psychology subjects are ranked among the top 150 in the world in the QS World University Rankings 2026. We have been in the top 150 for several years, demonstrating a consistent record of excellence.
The QS World University Rankings is an annual global publication that gives overall rankings and subject rankings for more than 1,500 universities worldwide.
Research opportunities
At Victoria University of Wellington, you’ll have the chance to be involved with cutting-edge research from across a wide range of areas of psychology. Find out about our research labs, or explore the faculty staff listings to get an idea of what might interest you and who you may be able to work with.
If you go on to work on a thesis for a Master’s or PhD, you’ll need to have contacted a supervisor who has agreed to supervise. So it’s a good idea to explore your options in advance to get an idea of projects and availability.
Future careers
Whichever postgraduate pathway you take, your advanced research skills and Psychology knowledge will give you the skillset for work in many fields.
You’ll join a community of talented alumni working in areas like:
- academia
- industry
- government
- education
- public health
- mental health.
More career information
Find out more about careers in Psychology.
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 first year and school-leaver scholarships available, as well as specialised scholarships for different groups and subject areas.
Scholarships for Postgraduate Psychology
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Applicants must be full-time post graduate student studying at Victoria University of Wellington. This scholarship is open to students from any course of study which focuses on social justice but students studying Criminology, Psychology, Sociology, Law and Restorative Justice are encouraged to apply. Students holding a full three-year PhD scholarship are not eligible to apply.
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The VSPS constitution states "The Psychology Society offers a range of events that enrich the study of psychology, bring together students at all levels of study, and foster a relationship between students and academic staff outside the classrooms".
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.
Scholarships for Postgraduate Psychology
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Applicants must be full-time post graduate student studying at Victoria University of Wellington. This scholarship is open to students from any course of study which focuses on social justice but students studying Criminology, Psychology, Sociology, Law and Restorative Justice are encouraged to apply. Students holding a full three-year PhD scholarship are not eligible to apply.
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The VSPS constitution states "The Psychology Society offers a range of events that enrich the study of psychology, bring together students at all levels of study, and foster a relationship between students and academic staff outside the classrooms".
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.
Victoria Students' Psychology Society
Be part of an enthusiastic and motivated postgraduate community. Dedicated supervisors and a strong culture of research within the School will guide and support you through your programme. You'll join a community with a track record of strong collaborations between students and staff.
Join the Victoria Students’ Psychology Society and come along to the annual quiz night, talks by guest speakers, movie nights, and other social events aimed at bringing students and staff together.
Victoria Students’ Psychology Society
Pacific Psychology Students' Association
In addition, the Pacific Psychology Students’ Association provides a safe space for Pacific Psychology students to make connections through academic and social events.
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.