Advance your career in software engineering
With postgraduate study in Software Engineering, you’ll develop specialist knowledge through advanced coursework, independent research, or practical experience—or a mix of these.
You could focus on topics in Software Engineering. Or you could develop hybrid expertise by combining your Software Engineering study with advanced courses in Artificial Intelligence, Computer Science, Computer Graphics or Cybersecurity.
You’ll enhance your ability to study independently, and to think critically and creatively. And through opportunities for independent research, you’ll build an advanced level of professional competence and expertise in the area you choose to focus on.
Choose your study path
Choose from a wide range of qualifications that will open doors to specialist and senior roles. You could do:
- a Bachelor of Science with Honours (BSc(Hons)), a Postgraduate Diploma in Science (PGDipSc), or a Postgraduate Certificate in Science (PGCertSc)
- one of our coursework-based Master’s degrees—the Master of Engineering Practice (MEP), the Master of Artificial Intelligence (MAI), or the Master of Computer Science (MCompSc)
- independent research on a topic of your choice with our thesis-based Master of Engineering (ME), Master of Science (MSc), or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).
Master of Software Development
If you don’t have a technical programming background or a degree in Software Engineering or a related subject, we also offer the Master of Software Development (MSwDev). This is a 12-month degree for people who want to change their career to software development.
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 Software Engineering at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.
Bachelor of Science with Honours—BSc(Hons)
Warning
This programme may not be suitable for you as an international student, due to one or more of the following reasons:
- The qualification is only available as part-time study.
- The qualification is delivered by distance or online modes.
- The content is mostly specific to the New Zealand context.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss an alternative programme in your field of interest, contact our International Office.
Entry requirements for domestic students
- Requirements for students who completed university in:
If you live in New Zealand and are a citizen or permanent resident of New Zealand or Australia, you're considered a domestic student.
Some citizens of the Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau may automatically hold New Zealand citizenship.
Diplomatic residents living in New Zealand are also regarded as domestic students.
To be accepted into this qualification, you need:
1. (a) Before enrolment, a candidate for the BSc(Hons) degree shall have:
(i) completed a degree of this university or, at the discretion of the Associate Dean, Academic (Undergraduate) of the Wellington Faculty of Science, another university;
(ii) satisfied the prerequisites listed in section 3 for the subject to be presented; and
(iii) been accepted by the relevant head of school as capable of proceeding with the proposed course of study.
(b) Requirement (a)(i) may be waived by the associate dean for a candidate who has:
(i) completed at least 240 points towards a degree at this university and attained a very high standard in the courses numbered 200–399 required by section 2 of the BSc regulations; or
(ii) completed all but 40 points of a Bachelor’s degree at this university; or
(iii) in exceptional cases, produced evidence to the satisfaction of the associate dean of extensive practical, professional, or scholarly experience of an appropriate kind.
2. (a) If a candidate accepted under section 1(b)(i) fails in the examination for BSc(Hons), but nevertheless reaches a sufficient standard for the BSc, the candidate shall be deemed to have qualified for the BSc degree.
(b) A candidate accepted under section 1(b)(ii) shall not be awarded a BSc(Hons) until a Bachelor’s degree is completed.
3. The subjects for the BSc(Hons) and their prerequisites are as follows.
Artificial Intelligence (AIML)
COMP 307; 45 further points from (COMP 301–399, CYBR 301–399, NWEN 301–399, SWEN 301–399)
Biotechnology (BTEC)
BTEC 301; 35 points from (BIOL 340, BMSC 301–399, CHEM 301–399, SCIE 310)
Cell and Molecular Bioscience (CBIO)
BIOL 340, BMSC 339; 40 points from BMSC 301, BIOL/BMSC 329–354
Chemistry (CHEM)
120 points in CHEM or other approved courses numbered 200–399, including at least 60 points at 300-level
Computer Graphics (CGRA)
30 points from CGRA 300–399; 30 further 300-level points from ANFX, CGRA, COMP, MATH, NWEN, SWEN
Computer Science (COMP)
60 300-level points from CGRA, COMP, CYBR, NWEN, SWEN
Conservation Biology (CONB)
60 points in approved courses from BIOL 300–399; STAT 193 or equivalent
Data Science (DATA)
60 points in approved courses from COMP 309, DATA 301–399, or equivalent
Ecology and Biodiversity (EBIO)
60 points in approved courses from BIOL 300–399; STAT 193 or equivalent
Electronic and Computer Systems (ELCO)
60 points in approved 300- or 400-level courses from the BE(Hons) Schedule or 300-level PHYS and COMP courses
Geography (GEOG)
60 points in approved courses from GEOG 300–399
Geology (GEOL)
80 points from ESCI 301–399, GEOS 301–399, including at least 20 points from ESCI 341, 342, GEOS 310
Geophysics (GPHS)
60 points in approved 300-level courses from (DATA, ESCI, GEOS, MATH, PHYS)
Marine Biology (BMAR)
60 points in approved courses from BIOL 300–399; STAT 193 or equivalent
Mathematics (MATH)
60 points in approved courses from MATH 301–399
Molecular Microbiology (MBIO)
BIOL 340, BMSC 301; 20 points from BIOL 236, BMSC 334, BTEC 301
Physical Geography (PHYG)
60 approved 300-level GEOG or GEOS points
Physics (PHYS)
PHYS 304, 305, 307, 345 (or 309)
Psychology (PSYC)
PSYC 232; PSYC 242 (or 325); at least 60 300-level PSYC points
Renewable Energy Systems (RESY)
60 300-level points from BILD, EEEN, PHYS, RESE, or approved subjects including geography, environment, economics, policy.
Statistics (STAT)
At least 45 points from (DATA 303, MATH 377, STAT 300–399)
Degree and major requirements
Excerpt from the regulations for the BSc(Hons)
4. A candidate for this degree shall normally be enrolled for two trimesters, though with the permission of the relevant head of school a part-time student may extend the period to four trimesters.
5. (a) The personal course of study of a candidate for the BSc(Hons) shall satisfy the requirements for the subject to be presented as set out in section 6, or with such substitutions as may be approved under section 8. The amount of practical work in a subject shall be as determined by the relevant head of school.
(b) A candidate enrolled in a course of study for a MSc, who has complied with the regulations for a Bachelor’s degree with Honours, may be awarded the appropriate Bachelor’s degree with Honours in place of the MSc degree. For the purposes of these regulations, a candidate transferring to BSc(Hons) shall be deemed to have commenced a course of study for that degree when first enrolling in the MSc in that subject.
Postgraduate Certificate in Science—PGCertSc
Warning
This programme may not be suitable for you as an international student, due to one or more of the following reasons:
- The qualification is only available as part-time study.
- The qualification is delivered by distance or online modes.
- The content is mostly specific to the New Zealand context.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss an alternative programme in your field of interest, contact our International Office.
Entry requirements for domestic students
- Requirements for students who completed university in:
If you live in New Zealand and are a citizen or permanent resident of New Zealand or Australia, you're considered a domestic student.
Some citizens of the Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau may automatically hold New Zealand citizenship.
Diplomatic residents living in New Zealand are also regarded as domestic students.
To be accepted into this qualification, you need:
1. (a) Before enrolment, a candidate for the PGCertSc shall have:
(i) completed a degree of this university or, at the discretion of the Associate Dean, Academic (Postgraduate) of the Faculty of Science, another university; and
(ii) satisfied the prerequisites for the subject to be presented as listed in section 2 of the MSc regulations; and
(iii) been accepted by the relevant head of school as capable of proceeding with the proposed course of study.
(b) Requirement (a)(i) may be waived by the head of school for a candidate who has produced evidence to the satisfaction of the associate dean of extensive practical, professional, or scholarly experience of an appropriate kind.
To be accepted into this programme, you will need:
- A Bachelor's degree
- To have met the prerequisites for the subject you wish to study
- To be accepted by the head of school as capable of proceeding with the proposed course of study
To be accepted into this programme, you will need:
- A Bachelor's degree
- To have met the prerequisites for the subject you wish to study
- To be accepted by the head of school as capable of proceeding with the proposed course of study
You may also need to show proof of your English language proficiency.
Degree and major requirements
Excerpt from the regulations for the PGCertSc
2. (a) A candidate shall normally be enrolled for at least one trimester and shall complete the requirements of the postgraduate certificate within two years of first enrolling in it. The associate dean may extend the maximum period in special cases.
(b) A candidate who has been awarded a PGCertSc in a particular subject is required to abandon that qualification upon being awarded the PGDipSc in the same subject.
Postgraduate Diploma in Science—PGDipSc
Warning
This programme may not be suitable for you as an international student, due to one or more of the following reasons:
- The qualification is only available as part-time study.
- The qualification is delivered by distance or online modes.
- The content is mostly specific to the New Zealand context.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss an alternative programme in your field of interest, contact our International Office.
Entry requirements for domestic students
- Requirements for students who completed university in:
If you live in New Zealand and are a citizen or permanent resident of New Zealand or Australia, you're considered a domestic student.
Some citizens of the Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau may automatically hold New Zealand citizenship.
Diplomatic residents living in New Zealand are also regarded as domestic students.
To be accepted into this qualification, you need:
1. (a) Before enrolment, a candidate for the PGDipSc shall have:
(i) completed a degree of this university or, at the discretion of the Associate Dean, Academic (Postgraduate) of the Wellington Faculty of Science, another university;
(ii) satisfied the prerequisites for the subject to be presented as listed in section 2 of the MSc regulations; and
(iii) been accepted by the relevant head of school as capable of proceeding with the proposed course of study.
(b) Requirement (a)(i) may be waived by the head of school for a candidate who has produced evidence to the satisfaction of the associate dean of extensive practical, professional, or scholarly experience of an appropriate kind.
To be accepted into this programme, you will need:
- A Bachelor's degree
- To have met the prerequisites for the subject you wish to study
- To be accepted by the head of school as capable of proceeding with the proposed course of study.
To be accepted into this programme, you will need:
- A Bachelor's degree
- To have met the prerequisites for the subject you wish to study
- To be accepted by the head of school as capable of proceeding with the proposed course of study.
You may also need to show proof of your English language proficiency.
Degree and major requirements
Excerpt from the regulations for the PGDipSc
2. A candidate shall normally be enrolled for at least two trimesters and shall complete the requirements of the postgraduate diploma within four years of first enrolling in it. The associate dean may extend the maximum period in special cases.
Master of Engineering—ME
Warning
This programme may not be suitable for you as an international student, due to one or more of the following reasons:
- The qualification is only available as part-time study.
- The qualification is delivered by distance or online modes.
- The content is mostly specific to the New Zealand context.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss an alternative programme in your field of interest, contact our International Office.
Entry requirements for domestic students
- Requirements for students who completed university in:
If you live in New Zealand and are a citizen or permanent resident of New Zealand or Australia, you're considered a domestic student.
Some citizens of the Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau may automatically hold New Zealand citizenship.
Diplomatic residents living in New Zealand are also regarded as domestic students.
To be accepted into this qualification, you need:
1. (a) Before enrolment, a candidate for the ME degree shall have:
(i) completed a Bachelor of Engineering with First or Second Class Honours from this university or, at the discretion of the associate dean (postgraduate research) of the Faculty of Science and Engineering, another university; and
(ii) been accepted by the head of school as capable of proceeding with the proposed course of study.
(b) Requirement (a)(i) may be waived by the associate dean for a candidate who has had extensive practical, professional, or scholarly experience of an appropriate kind.
Degree and major requirements
Excerpt from the regulations for the ME
2. The course of study for the ME shall consist of either:
(a) a 120-point Master’s thesis (Thesis (ENGR 591)); or
(b) a 90-point Master’s thesis (Thesis (ENGR 592)), and 30 points of approved 400- or 500-level courses from the schedules to the BE(Hons) or ME.
3. The minimum and maximum periods of enrolment for a 120-point thesis or a 90-point thesis combined with 30 points of course work are specified in the Master’s Thesis Regulations.
Master of Engineering Practice—MEP
Warning
This programme may not be suitable for you as an international student, due to one or more of the following reasons:
- The qualification is only available as part-time study.
- The qualification is delivered by distance or online modes.
- The content is mostly specific to the New Zealand context.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss an alternative programme in your field of interest, contact our International Office.
Entry requirements for domestic students
- Requirements for students who completed university in:
If you live in New Zealand and are a citizen or permanent resident of New Zealand or Australia, you're considered a domestic student.
Some citizens of the Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau may automatically hold New Zealand citizenship.
Diplomatic residents living in New Zealand are also regarded as domestic students.
To be accepted into this qualification, you need:
1. (a) Before enrolment, a candidate for the MEP degree shall have:
(i) completed a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant subject with an average grade of at least B+; and
(ii) been accepted by the Head of the School of Engineering and Computer Science as capable of proceeding with the proposed course of study.
(b) A candidate who has the equivalent of a New Zealand BE(Hons) in a relevant subject may be exempted up to 60 points of Part 1 by the Associate Dean (Students).
Degree and major requirements
Exerpt from the regulations for the MEP
2. (a) The course of study for the MEP shall consist of:
Part 1: Engineering Research and Communication (ENGR 501), Engineering Professional Practice (ENGR 502), Engineering Project 1 (ENGR 510), Engineering Project 2 (ENGR 511); 60 400-level points from the BE(Hons) Schedule (except Professional Practice (ENGR 401) and 489)
Part 2: ENGR 588 or 589.
(b) Entry to Part 2 requires at least a B– average in Part 1 courses or special permission from the head of school.
3. A candidate for the MEP must complete the qualification within three years of first enrolment.
4. A candidate who has been awarded a PGCertEP or a PGDipEP shall abandon that qualification on being awarded the MEP.
Master of Artificial Intelligence—MAI
Warning
This programme may not be suitable for you as an international student, due to one or more of the following reasons:
- The qualification is only available as part-time study.
- The qualification is delivered by distance or online modes.
- The content is mostly specific to the New Zealand context.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss an alternative programme in your field of interest, contact our International Office.
Entry requirements for domestic students
- Requirements for students who completed university in:
If you live in New Zealand and are a citizen or permanent resident of New Zealand or Australia, you're considered a domestic student.
Some citizens of the Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau may automatically hold New Zealand citizenship.
Diplomatic residents living in New Zealand are also regarded as domestic students.
To be accepted into this qualification, you need:
1. (a) Before enrolment, a candidate for the MAI degree shall have:
(i) completed a Bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related subject with an average grade of at least B in the relevant final year courses; and
(ii) been accepted by the head of school or nominee as capable of proceeding with the proposed course of study.
(b) Requirement (a)(i) may be waived or varied by the associate dean for a candidate who has had extensive practical, professional, or scholarly experience that provides an equivalent level of preparation.
Degree and major requirements
Excerpt from the regulations for the MAI
2. (a) Except as provided in section 4 of this statute, the course of study for the MAI shall consist of:
Part 1: (i) Applications and Implications of Artificial Intelligence (AIML 430);
(ii) 45 further points from AIML 425–440;
(iii) 30 further points from AIML 420–489, Convex Optimisation (EEEN 422), EEEN 430;
(iv) 30 further 400-level points from AIML, COMP, DATA, NWEN, SWEN, Convex Optimisation (EEEN 422), EEEN 430, Computational Statistics (STAT 432), Bayesian Inference (STAT 452)
Part 2: Research Essay in Artificial Intelligence (AIML 501) and 589.
3. A candidate for the MAI shall normally be enrolled for at least three trimesters and shall complete the degree within four years of first enrolling in it. The associate dean may extend the maximum period in special cases.
Master of Computer Science—MCompSc
Warning
This programme may not be suitable for you as an international student, due to one or more of the following reasons:
- The qualification is only available as part-time study.
- The qualification is delivered by distance or online modes.
- The content is mostly specific to the New Zealand context.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss an alternative programme in your field of interest, contact our International Office.
Entry requirements for domestic students
- Requirements for students who completed university in:
If you live in New Zealand and are a citizen or permanent resident of New Zealand or Australia, you're considered a domestic student.
Some citizens of the Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau may automatically hold New Zealand citizenship.
Diplomatic residents living in New Zealand are also regarded as domestic students.
To be accepted into this qualification, you need:
1. (a) Before enrolment, a candidate for the MCompSc degree shall have:
(i) completed a Bachelor’s degree with an average grade of at least B;
(ii) been accepted by the head of school as having adequate preparation in Computer Science, either through completion of an appropriate degree or diploma or through professional experience.
(b) Requirement (a)(i) may be waived by the Associate Dean (Students) for a candidate who has had extensive practical, professional, or scholarly experience providing appropriate preparation.
Degree and major requirements
Excerpt from the regulations for the MCompSc
2. Except as provided in section 4 of these regulations, the course of study for the MCompSc shall consist of:
Part 1: 120 points in an approved combination from AIML/COMP/CYBR/NWEN/ SWEN 401–479, CGRA 401–459
Part 2: Research Essay in Computer Science (COMP 501), Project (COMP 589).
3. A candidate for the MCompSc shall normally be enrolled for at least three trimesters and shall complete the degree within four years of first enrolling in it. The associate dean may extend the maximum period in special cases.
Master of Science—MSc
Warning
This programme may not be suitable for you as an international student, due to one or more of the following reasons:
- The qualification is only available as part-time study.
- The qualification is delivered by distance or online modes.
- The content is mostly specific to the New Zealand context.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss an alternative programme in your field of interest, contact our International Office.
Entry requirements for domestic students
- Requirements for students who completed university in:
If you live in New Zealand and are a citizen or permanent resident of New Zealand or Australia, you're considered a domestic student.
Some citizens of the Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau may automatically hold New Zealand citizenship.
Diplomatic residents living in New Zealand are also regarded as domestic students.
To be accepted into this qualification, you need:
1. (a) Before enrolment, a candidate for the MSc degree shall have:
(i) completed a degree or relevant graduate or postgraduate diploma of this university or, at the discretion of the Associate Dean, Academic (Postgraduate) of the Wellington Faculty of Science, another university;
(ii) satisfied the prerequisites listed in section 2 for the subject to be presented, or been granted exemption from those prerequisites by the relevant head of school; and
(iii) been accepted by the head of school as capable of proceeding with the proposed course of study.
(b) Requirement (a)(i) may be waived by the associate dean for a candidate who has had extensive practical, professional, or scholarly experience of an appropriate kind.
2. The subjects of examination and their prerequisites are as follows:
Artificial Intelligence (AIML)
One of (AIML 320, 331-335) and a further 45 points from (AIML 301-399, CGRA 301-399, COMP 301–399, CYBR 301–399, NWEN 301–399, SWEN 301–399)
Biotechnology (BTEC)
BTEC 301; 35 points from (BIOL 340, BMSC 301–399, CHEM 301–399, SCIE 310)
Cell and Molecular Bioscience (CBIO)
BIOL 340, BMSC 339; 40 points from BMSC 301, BIOL/BMSC 329–354
Chemistry (CHEM)
120 points in CHEM or other approved courses numbered 200–399, including at least 60 points at 300 level
Cognitive and Behavioural Neuroscience (CBNS)
PSYC 232, 242; two of PSYC 310, 327, 332, (340 in 2021–2024); at least 30 further 300- level PSYC points
Computer Graphics (CGRA)
30 points from CGRA 300–399; 30 further 300-level points from (ANFX/CGRA/COMP/ MATH/NWEN/SWEN)
Computer Science (COMP)
60 300-level points from (CGRA/COMP/CYBR/NWEN/SWEN)
Cross-cultural Psychology (CPSY)
PSYC 232, PSYC 242 (or 325); at least 60 300-level PSYC points
Data Science (DATA)
60 points in approved courses from COMP 309, DATA 301–399, or equivalent
Development Studies (DEVE)
60 points in approved courses from GEOG 300–399; or 60 points from 300-level in another degree as approved by head of school.
Ecological Restoration (ERES)
60 points in approved courses from BIOL 300–399; STAT 193 or equivalent
Ecology and Biodiversity (EBIO)
60 points in approved courses from BIOL 300–399; STAT 193 or equivalent
Electronic and Computer Systems (ELCO)
60 points in approved 300- or higher-level courses from the BE(Hons) Schedule or 300-level PHYS
Environmental Science (ENSC)
60 points in approved 300-level courses from ENSC, BIOL, CHEM, ESCI, GEOG, GPHS, MATH, PHYG, PHYS, STAT
Forensic Psychology (FPSY)
PSYC 232; PSYC 242 (or 325); at least 60 300-level PSYC points
Geographic Information Science (GISC)
GEOG 215, 315
Geography (GEOG)
60 points in approved courses from GEOG 300–399
Geology (GEOL)
80 points from ESCI 301–399, GEOS 301–399, including at least 20 points from ESCI 341, 342, GEOS 310
Geophysics (GPHS)
60 points in approved 300-level courses from (DATA, ESCI, GEOS, MATH, or PHYS)
Marine Biology (BMAR)
60 points in approved courses from BIOL 300–399; STAT 193 or equivalent
Mathematics (MATH)
60 points in approved courses from MATH 300–399
Molecular Microbiology (MBIO)
BIOL 340, BMSC 301; 20 points from BIOL 236, BMSC 334, BTEC 301
Physical Geography (PHYG)
60 approved 300-level GEOG or GEOS points
Physics (PHYS)
PHYS 304, 305, 307, 345 (or 309) Psychology (PSYC)
PSYC 232; PSYC 242 (or 325); at least 60 further 300-level PSYC points
Renewable Energy Systems (RESY)
60 300-level points from BILD, EEEN, PHYS, RESE, or approved subjects including geography, environment, economics, policy
Science Education (SCED)
A BSc(Hons) degree
Science in Society (SCIS)
A science major
Statistics (STAT)
At least 45 points from DATA 303, MATH 377, STAT 300–399
Degree and major requirements
Excerpt from the regulations for the MSc
3. (a) Except as provided in (b) and (c) and in section 7, the course of study for the MSc shall consist of:
Part 1: Approved courses worth at least 120 points from the BSc(Hons) or other schedules;
Part 2: A Master’s thesis (see Part 2 of the Master’s Thesis Regulations), or an approved combination of courses, thesis and research project(s).
Parts 1 and 2 shall be as prescribed in section 5 with both parts being in the same subject, and shall include such practical work as may be determined by the relevant head of school. Each part shall contribute at least 40 percent of the total marks.
(b) A candidate who has completed a degree with Honours or other graduate study to an appropriate level may be admitted directly to Part 2 and need not then offer Part 1.
(c) A candidate may proceed to Part 2 only with the permission of the relevant head of school.
4. (a) A full-time candidate whose course of study includes both parts shall normally be enrolled for at least four trimesters (extended pro rata up to eight trimesters for students who are not full time) and shall complete the degree within two and a half years of first enrolling in it (extended pro rata up to five years for students who are not full time). The associate dean may extend the maximum period in special cases.
(b) The minimum and maximum periods of enrolment for Part 2 are specified in the Master’s Thesis Regulations.
Master of Software Development—MSwDev
Warning
This programme may not be suitable for you as an international student, due to one or more of the following reasons:
- The qualification is only available as part-time study.
- The qualification is delivered by distance or online modes.
- The content is mostly specific to the New Zealand context.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss an alternative programme in your field of interest, contact our International Office.
Entry requirements for domestic students
- Requirements for students who completed university in:
If you live in New Zealand and are a citizen or permanent resident of New Zealand or Australia, you're considered a domestic student.
Some citizens of the Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau may automatically hold New Zealand citizenship.
Diplomatic residents living in New Zealand are also regarded as domestic students.
To be accepted into this qualification, you need:
1. (a) Before enrolment, a candidate for the MSwDev degree shall have:
(i) completed a degree of a tertiary institution in New Zealand with an average grade of at least B; and
(ii) demonstrated a basic level of competence in programming;
(iii) been accepted by the Head of the School of Engineering and Computer Science as capable of proceeding with the proposed course of study.
(b) Requirement (a)(i) may be waived by the Associate Dean (Students) for a candidate who has had extensive practical, professional, or scholarly experience of an appropriate kind.
Note: Students with a qualification in Software Engineering, Computer Science (or a similar subject), or with substantial experience in software development in industry will not be accepted into the programme.
Degree and major requirements
Excerpt from the regulations for the MSwDev
2. (a) The course of study for the MSwDev shall consist of:
Part 1: Professional Programming Skills (SWEN 501), Software Development Studio 1 (SWEN 502), Software Development Studio 2 (SWEN 504)
Part 2: Industry Research and Development Project (SWEN 589).
(b) Entry to Part 2 requires at least a B– average in Part 1 courses or special permission from the head of school.
3. A candidate for the MSwDev must be enrolled full time, and shall normally complete the degree within 12 months of first enrolling in it, but must complete it within 24 months.
4. (a) A candidate who has completed Part 1 of the degree and not Part 2 may be awarded a PGDipSwDev.
(b) A candidate who has completed Professional Programming Skills (SWEN 501) and 502 but has not completed Part 1 may be awarded a PGCertSwDev.
Doctor of Philosophy—PhD
Warning
This programme may not be suitable for you as an international student, due to one or more of the following reasons:
- The qualification is only available as part-time study.
- The qualification is delivered by distance or online modes.
- The content is mostly specific to the New Zealand context.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss an alternative programme in your field of interest, contact our International Office.
Entry requirements for domestic students
- Requirements for students who completed university in:
If you live in New Zealand and are a citizen or permanent resident of New Zealand or Australia, you're considered a domestic student.
Some citizens of the Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau may automatically hold New Zealand citizenship.
Diplomatic residents living in New Zealand are also regarded as domestic students.
To be accepted into this qualification, you need:
1. Before enrolment, a candidate for the PhD degree shall:
(a) have completed a Bachelor’s degree with Honours or a Master’s degree at a New Zealand university, with an overall GPA of no less than 6 (letter grade B+); or
(b) be currently enrolled in a Master’s thesis at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington and meet the requirements for conversion to a PhD (refer to the PhD Procedures); or
(c) produce evidence to the satisfaction of the Dean, Wellington Faculty of Graduate Research (FGR), of adequate training and ability to proceed with the proposed course for the degree.
2. Candidates must qualify for entry and be accepted by the head of school and the relevant Associate Dean (PGR).
3. Where a candidate qualifies for entry under 1(b) above, the candidate will be deemed to have been provisionally registered for the PhD from the date of first enrolment for the Master’s thesis.
If you have qualifications from outside New Zealand
- If you have a four-year Bachelor's degree graded in a four-point GPA system, you need to have a GPA of at least 3.0 out of 4.0.
- If you have a Bachelor's degree graded in the British system—including India—you must have been awarded the degree with first or upper second-class Honours.
If you have qualifications from outside New Zealand
- If you have a four-year Bachelor's degree graded in a four-point GPA system, you need to have a GPA of at least 3.0 out of 4.0.
- If you have a Bachelor's degree graded in the British system—including India—you must have been awarded the degree with first or upper second-class Honours.
Degree and major requirements
Excerpt from the regulations for the PhD
4. The course of study for a PhD consists of a programme of research and the completion of a thesis carried out under supervision as set out in the Doctoral Regulations.
5. The research will normally be conducted at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.
6. The thesis must be a body of work that demonstrates the candidate’s ability to carry out independent research, and constitutes a significant and original contribution to knowledge or understanding. This contribution may include critical, experimental, theoretical, or creative components, but the end result must be a single integrated study.
7. The work for the thesis must not have been submitted for another qualification at this or any other university.
Enrolment and registration
8. A candidate must be continuously enrolled until the completed thesis is lodged in the University Library, unless they withdraw from the qualification, or have their enrolment terminated by the University, or fail the qualification.
9. A candidate shall in the first instance be provisionally registered for the degree.
(a) Full registration is gained by demonstrating satisfactory progress during the provisional period, and meeting criteria as set out in the Doctoral Regulations.
(b) Up to 60 points of coursework may be required as part of the PhD and any coursework undertaken must normally be completed within the period of provisional registration.
(c) When full registration is confirmed, the period of provisional registration is counted as part of the minimum and maximum periods as defined in section 10 below.
10. Except with the permission of the Dean (FGR), the minimum and maximum periods from the time of first enrolment (excluding any approved period(s) of suspension) until submission of a PhD thesis for examination shall be as follows:
(a) A full-time candidate shall be enrolled for a minimum of 36 months.
(b) A full-time candidate may be enrolled for a maximum of 48 months.
(c) For a candidate permitted to enrol part time for part, or all, of their programme, the minimum and maximum periods shall be calculated on a pro rata basis.
11. On application from a candidate, the Associate Dean (PGR) may approve a suspension of registration, for a period of not less than one month. During a student’s candidature, the total period of suspension shall not usually exceed 12 months. During a suspension the candidate will pay no tuition fees.
12. Extensions to the maximum period prior to submission of the thesis may be granted by the Dean (FGR) and shall not usually exceed 12 months. Consideration of extensions shall take account of the candidate’s personal circumstances and the nature of the research project and consent shall neither be unreasonably withheld nor given without good cause. All calculations will exclude any periods of approved suspension.
13. A candidate’s enrolment may be terminated if they fail to make satisfactory progress or if they do not fulfil the requirements of the examination process.
14. Enrolment for the PhD degree may be converted to an enrolment in a Master’s degree.
Note: refer to Doctoral Regulations: for PhD and other Doctorates with Theses, and procedures.
Examination
15. The examination for the PhD degree will comprise an examination of the thesis and an oral defence of the thesis as set out in the Doctoral Regulations. Examination 15. The examination for the PhD degree will comprise an examination of the thesis and an oral defence of the thesis as set out in the Doctoral Regulations.
Future careers
Postgraduate study in Software Engineering will give you deep knowledge in your area of focus. It will make you a great candidate for specialist and senior roles.
If you do a PhD, your study could lead to a career in research and development or academia.
Your study may lead to a career as a:
- software engineer
- web or mobile developer
- software tester
- UX engineer
- database developer
- information security analyst
- software architect.
Recent graduates work for employers like:
- tech companies—Trade Me, Datacom, Atlassian, Catalyst IT, Xero, Google, IBM, Wētā FX, Apple, Microsoft, Eagle Technology, DXC Technology
- consulting firms such as PwC, Ernst & Young, KPMG, Deloitte
- insurance companies
- government and public sector organisations.
More career information
Find out more about careers in software engineering.
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 related to Software Engineering
Trimble Karahipi Hangarau / Technology Scholarship
Data Science and Artificial Intelligence Māori Master By Research Scholarship
Scholarships for Software Engineering
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Worth: $32,000 Closing: 1 November, 2026
This Scholarship was established in 2025 to honour Professor Margaret Hyland who held the role of Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research at Victoria University of Wellington from 2018 to 2025.
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.
Some relevant scholarships
Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship
Tongarewa International Scholarship
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 Software Engineering
There could be a scholarship for your qualification, subject area, background, or situation.
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.
Research areas
Join a strong culture of world-leading research. You might work on research in:
- artificial intelligence
- cloud computing
- human-computer interaction
- technology-enhanced learning
- cybersecurity
- computer graphics and games
- networking
- programming language development.
There are a number of research groups in the School of Engineering and Computer Science, and a diverse range of projects underway at any one time.
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.