Program Overview

Master of Health, Sport and Human Performance

The Master of Health, Sport and Human Performance is a research-based qualification that teaches students to critically examine how political, cultural, social, and economic factors influence the meaning and nature of sport, exercise, and leisure.

Points and Duration

• The total number of points required to gain this qualification is 180 points.
• The expected duration of this qualification is 1.5 years full-time.

Locations

• The qualification is offered in Hamilton and Tauranga.
• Papers offered differ by location.

Area of Study

• The qualification is offered under the Division of Health.

Start Dates

• The qualification can be started in Trimester A (March).

Why Study the Master of Health, Sport and Human Performance?

While studying the Master of Health, Sport & Human Performance (MHSHP), students explore how sociological perspectives, psychological and physiological factors influence movement and performance in sport and exercise. Throughout the course of study, students receive opportunities to get involved in real-world research to make a difference in people’s lives, as well as connect with elite athletes and teams.

Career Opportunities

• Applied Exercise Scientist/Exercise Physiologist
• Coach
• Coach Educator
• Coach Developer
• Health, Physical Education or Dance Teacher
• Human Movement or High Performance Manager
• Outdoor Education Instructor/Manager
• Researcher in Health, Sport and Human Movement
• Strength and Conditioning Coach

Degree Information

Plan Your Study

• Major subject: Health, Sport and Human Performance

Entry Requirements

• See the University of Waikato Calendar for all Regulations for the Master of Health, Sport and Human Performance.
• To complete a MHSHP:
  • Students who qualified with a BHSHP must gain a further 180 points at 500 level.
  • Students who qualified with a BHSHP with at least second class honours (second division) or a PGDip Health, Sport and Human Performance must gain a further 120 points at 500 level.
  • All students must include a thesis (120 or 90 points), a dissertation (90 points) or a directed study (30 points).
  • All students must complete the papers prescribed in the University of Waikato Catalogue of Papers.

Fees and Scholarships

• Estimated fees: $8,569 - $10,441 per year
• Domestic tuition fees: Approximate annual tuition fees and costs for domestic students enrolled in one year of full-time study.
• Scholarships: Visit the Scholarship finder for more information about possible scholarships.

Study in Tauranga

The Master of Health, Sport & Human Performance (MHSHP) can be partially completed in Tauranga. Students will work in the high-tech laboratory at the University of Waikato Adams Centre for High Performance, which was established in partnership with the Tauranga City Council.

Graduate Study Options

• PhD in Health, Sport and Human Performance: 3 years, Hamilton, Tauranga

Current Research

1. Physiology of Exercise and training adaptation, Dr Martyn Beaven
2. Coaching research, Dr Robert Townsend
3. Biomechanics and Injury Prevention, Dr Kim Hebert-Losier
4. Sport and movement researchers, Dr Holly Thorpe and Dr Belinda Wheaton (Marsden Research Grant recipient researching sport in sites of war, conflict and disaster)
5. Sleep and Energy Availability in Athletes, Dr Shannon O'Donnell
6. Strength and Conditioning, Dr Daniel McMaster

What Our Students Are Saying

1. Waikato was the perfect fit for me. The uni has loads of connections with top sporting teams, which gives you the opportunity to work with some incredible athletes. - Jade Wharemate
2. I am probably a more practically-minded person, so it was an enjoyable challenge and exciting opportunity to extend my theoretical knowledge and gain skills in academic writing. - Blair Mills
3. I studied at the University of Waikato for 8 years – beginning at undergraduate level, moving through to Honours, Masters and then completing my Doctoral studies – and throughout this time, I was given opportunities and supported in a way that nurtured me - Dr Amy Marfell

About the Program

The Master of Health, Sport & Human Performance (MHSHP) is a flexible degree, giving students the option to tailor the programme to meet their needs. The staff hold the expertise to supervise a diverse range of projects, and students have the option of completing their degree over one year full-time, or part-time while working. The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the factors that influence sport, exercise, and leisure, and to equip them with the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue a career in this field.