Become an expert in the beliefs that define us
Cultivate a deep understanding of how religion intersects with global geopolitical realities, and other dimensions of politics, society, and culture.
Examine many different theories and studies of religion, and further develop your critical analysis, communication, and problem-solving skills. Learn to question your assumptions and look at the world with an open mind.
Develop your expertise in the beliefs that shape our interconnected world and refine the research skills you need to better understand the past, present, and future of what people believe. Our Postgraduate Study of Religion courses cover contemporary issues, research methods, and self-directed research projects.
Choose your study path
There are several ways you can take Postgraduate Study of Relgion with us.
Postgraduate study pathways
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 (by coursework)
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 take Postgraduate Study of Relgion at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.
Why Wellington
Make the most of our decades of groundbreaking scholarship and study in Religion—we first offered Study of Religion in 1971. We’ve become one of the largest and most influential Study of Religion programmes in Australasia, with a strong reputation internationally.
Our Study of Religion staff are experts on the big issues of human existence—from evil and salvation, violence and peace, environmental crisis and mortality, to the politics of ethical action.
Globally ranked
Our Sociology subjects are ranked in the top 200 worldwide in the QS World University Rankings 2026.
The QS World University Rankings is an annual global publication that gives overall rankings and subject rankings for more than 1,500 universities worldwide.
Future careers
Study of Religion gives you career pathways in Aotearoa and abroad:
- consultancies—agencies, including the Big Four firms (PWC, Deloitte, EY, KPMG) as well as boutique firms, have teams specialising in cultural competency, strategy, and research
- health—people with intercultural expertise are sought after in the health sector, especially in designing services and providing cultural support
- leadership and governance—intercultural skills are sought after at community, local government, and central government levels
- public policy—work on legislation and initiatives which diverse communities
- NGOs and community organisations—people with cross-cultural skills and knowledge are sought after by those wanting to improve cultural competency.
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 Postgraduate Study of Relgion
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The fund, which was established at the time of the renovation of the C3 lecture theatre, is to assist a second-year student from any faculty in their studies at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington
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 Postgraduate Study of Relgion
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.
Academic staff research areas
Philip Fountain
Associate Professor
Nabeel Jafri
Lecturer in the Study of Religion
Sara Rahmani
Senior Lecturer
Geoff Troughton
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.