
QUALIFICATION
Master's Degree (Level 9, 180 credits)
Duration
1.5 Years Full-Time (Part-time available)
Location
Windermere Campus, Tauranga
Fees
NZD $36,270
Entry Score
IELTS: Academic 6.5 overall (no band lower than 6.0)
Next Intake
July
Programme Overview
The Master of Applied Professional Studies (Mentoring and Leadership) is specifically designed for working professionals who wish to bridge the gap between their current expertise and higher-level leadership roles. It focuses on reflective practice, critical evaluation, and the application of leadership models to real-world workplace situations.
A unique feature of this course is that assessments and projects are designed to link directly to your professional employment. This allows you to solve real-world problems within your own organisation while earning your degree. The programme also includes nested awards, meaning you may also receive a Postgraduate Certificate and Diploma along the way.
What You'll Study
The 180-credit curriculum covers advanced adult learning theories and research methodologies.
Core Topics
- Critical Reflective Practice: Analysing your own professional actions to improve performance.
- Professional Leadership: Exploring diverse leadership models and frameworks.
- Adult Learning Theory: Understanding how to facilitate growth in colleagues and teams.
- Building Professional Relationships for Mentoring: The psychology and ethics of the mentor-mentee bond.
- Mentoring and Supervision: Strategic oversight and support of staff.
- Nga Tikanga Rangahau: Research protocols and ethical considerations.
Final Phase
- Research Project or Dissertation: An independent research project focused on a leadership or mentoring challenge within your specific industry.
Why Choose This Programme?
- Applied Focus: Designed for immediate impact—what you learn on Monday can be applied at work on Tuesday.
- Workplace Integrated: You must have access to a relevant workplace to complete the practical components of the course.
- Pathway to Research: Provides the advanced analytical skills required for further doctoral-level study.
- Regional Networking: Study in Tauranga, a rapidly growing business and educational hub in the Bay of Plenty.
Career Pathways
| Sector | Roles |
|---|---|
| Education | Associate Teacher, Educational Leader, Faculty Head |
| Health & Social Services | Clinical Supervisor, Team Lead, Mentor Practitioner |
| Health & Social Services | Clinical Supervisor, Team Lead, Mentor Practitioner |
| Corporate | Team Manager, HR Consultant, Staff Development Lead |
| Tertiary Sector | Professional Mentor, Academic Lead, Programme Coordinator |
Entry Requirements
- Academic: A Bachelor’s degree (or Honours) in a relevant subject with a B average or higher. Alternatively, a Postgraduate Certificate/Diploma in a related field.
- Professional: You must have access to a relevant workplace. If not currently employed, at least two years of relevant experience is expected.
- Selection: Requires a current CV and an interview/information meeting to ensure the course aligns with your career goals.
- English: IELTS Academic 6.5 overall with all bands 6.0 or higher.