Program Overview

Master of Veterinary Studies – MVS

The Master of Veterinary Studies (MVS) is an internationally recognised degree, ideal for those seeking a blend of taught courses and research. This qualification offers a variety of courses across different areas of veterinary science, allowing students to tailor their studies to match their interests. Please note that this programme does not include clinical skills development.

Type of Qualification

• Master's degree
• Level of study: Postgraduate study (NZQF level 9)
• Time to complete: 1 year 6 months full-time (180 credits), with part-time options available
• International students: Open to international students on campus in New Zealand, or studying online outside New Zealand

Study Details

• The MVS is a parts-based qualification, requiring the completion of Part One before progressing to Part Two.
• Part One gives students good knowledge and skills that will help with the research part of their qualification.
• To progress to Part Two, a B grade average is needed over the Part One courses.

Entry Requirements

• Admission to Massey: All students must meet university entrance requirements.
• Specific requirements:
  • A Bachelor of Veterinary Science, with at least a B grade average, or equivalent.
  • The Advanced Veterinary Practice specialisation has an additional requirement: selection into the qualification based on an interview.
• English language requirements: Students must meet Massey University's English language standards.

Structure of the Master of Veterinary Studies

• The Master of Veterinary Studies is a 180-credit qualification.
• Part One: 60 or 120 credits of courses.
• Part Two: Either a 120-credit thesis or a 60-credit research report.

Courses and Specialisations

• Without Specialisation: Develop expertise in a specific area of veterinary science to progress professional development.
• Part One: Choose at least 60 credits from elective courses, including 700-level courses selected from the 117, 118, 194 course prefix series.
• Part Two:
  • Either a 120-credit thesis, completed in two parts (60 credits each).
  • Or a 60-credit research report.

Fees and Scholarships

• 2026 tuition fees:
  • Domestic students: $15,686
  • International students: $59,620
• Student loans (StudyLink) and Fees Free scheme: Eligible domestic students may be eligible for a student loan or fees-free tertiary study.
• Scholarship and award opportunities: Various scholarships are available, including the Allan and Grace Kay Overseas Scholarship, Graham Chalmers Allen Memorial Scholarship in Veterinary Science, and more.

Careers and Job Opportunities

• Graduates of this qualification have gone on to become world leaders in veterinary epidemiology and veterinary public health.
• A 2017 Ministry of Education publication found that young master’s graduates earn more than 1.5 times more than the national median (5 years after study).

Accreditations and Rankings

• OIE Collaborating Centre for Veterinary Epidemiology and Public Health: Massey's EpiCentre is recognised by the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) as a Collaborating Centre.
• QS Ranking - Veterinary Science: The Veterinary School is ranked 19th in the world for veterinary science.
• ShanghaiRanking - veterinary science: Massey ranks among the top 75 in the world for veterinary science.