As New Zealand's healthcare industry expands, the need for professional and culturally sensitive pharmacists increases. Master of Pharmacy Practice (MPharmPrac) was specifically formulated to meet this need and provides a distinctive, fast-track route into the pharmacy profession for science graduates. This two-year, full-time master's qualification is the first of its type in New Zealand and integrates demanding academic study with intensive clinical practice.

A Science Students' Graduate Entry Program

The MPharmPrac is geared for students who already have a bachelor's degree in a molecular or biological subject, for example, biochemistry, chemistry, pharmacology, biomedical science, or molecular and cellular biology. As opposed to customary undergraduate pharmacy degrees, the program provides a fast-track path into the field and is an excellent choice for those wishing to enter a career in healthcare from a supportive academic background.

To be eligible for admission, applicants should have obtained a minimum B grade average in the final year of undergraduate studies. The selection includes the provision of a personal statement, academic references, criminal record check, and interview. Due to the limited number of seats, applications are considered competitively, and early application is highly encouraged. Application closing dates for the 2026 intake are 30 September 2025.

Why Study Master of Pharmacy Practice?

One of the strongest features of the MPharmPrac is that it brings together academic theory and practice in real-world environments. Students complete a total of 375 hours of pre-registration pharmacy placements in different types of settings, such as community pharmacies, primary healthcare centres, and hospitals. These placements give students a broad exposure to the role of the pharmacist in a range of settings and ensure that graduates are adequately prepared for the harsh realities of clinical practice.

The other differentiating aspect of the program is its culturally responsive and holistic approach to health education. Underpinning the curriculum are Hauora Māori models of health like Te Whare Tapa Whā, Te Wheke, and the Meihana Model, which urge students to consider health from a wider perspective that takes in spiritual, whānau, and community aspects. Such cultural competence is critical in providing inclusive healthcare to Aotearoa New Zealand's multicultural population.

The programme is located at the Hamilton campus and consists of on-campus learning blocks and clinical blocks. A rural placement beyond Hamilton is also included, providing useful experience of regional health care delivery. Students pay for travel and accommodation associated with this placement, promoting responsibility and flexibility in real-life situations.

Pathway to Professional Registration

After passing the Master of Pharmacy Practice, graduates can be registered as Intern Pharmacists with the Pharmacy Council of New Zealand. This starts the intern year, a paid apprenticeship-style training program funded by the Pharmaceutical Society of New Zealand. Once they have completed the intern
year successfully, graduates can apply for full registration as a Pharmacist.

Career Opportunities

The MPharmPrac equips graduates for diverse careers in the pharmacy and health industries. Career choices include:

Intern Pharmacist, Registered Pharmacist, Primary and Community Health Care Pharmacist, Hospital-based Pharmacist, Careers in Pharmaceutical Research and Development

The program's focus on clinical placement, professional development, and understanding of cultural sensitivity makes graduates extremely employable not just in New Zealand but also in overseas healthcare systems that promote holistic, patient-focussed care.

Top Postgraduate Study Programs in New Zealand for Civil Engineering Graduates

New Zealand is becoming one of the most promising destinations for engineering graduates in search of good quality education and global exposure. For students holding a Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, New Zealand has many postgraduate programs that integrate technical development with real-world experience. They are constructed to not only advance core civil and structural knowledge but also to advance employability and preparedness for actual real-world situations. Some of the most highly suggested postgraduate courses include the Master of Engineering Practice and the Master of Engineering.

Master of Engineering Practice (MEngPrac)

The Master of Engineering Practice is a postgraduate taught program especially designed for new engineering graduates and working professionals who want to advance their industry preparedness. Available in 120- and 180-point configurations, the program could usually be completed within 12 to 18 months depending on the previous qualifications and experience of the student.

Career paths from this program are: Civil Engineer, Materials Engineer, Mechanical Engineer, Electronics or Mechatronics Engineer

Master of Engineering (ME)

For research and innovation inclined students, the Master of Engineering (ME) is a great option. This is a postgraduate research degree, usually taken in 12 months (120 points), and is most appropriate for those who have a four-year Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) or equivalent qualification.

The ME course enables students to pursue a broad variety of specialisations, such as Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, Environmental Engineering, and more. It is perfect for candidates who want to delve further into engineering principles, work on state-of-the-art research, or go on towards a PhD.

One of the unique aspects of the ME is the possibility of undertaking original research under the guidance of top academics in first-class laboratories. The program is underpinned by extensive connections between universities, research institutes, and industry, which means that student projects have regular and significant real-world relevance and impact.

Career routes for ME graduates include: Research and Development Engineer, Civil or Structural Engineer, Engineering Consultant, Engineering Geologist, Academic Researcher Students who study the ME program, apart from becoming experts in their area of study, also become competent problem solvers and analytics. These skills are much sought after in industries as well as in academics.

Master of Engineering – 180-Point and 120-Point Pathways

Some New Zealand universities also provide a Master of Engineering in two different pathways: a research pathway (with a thesis) and a coursework pathway (with a research project). Students with a three-year engineering degree are typically enrolled in the 180-point option, whereas students with a four-year degree (such as BE(Hons)) can enter directly into the 120-point program.

This model provides students with flexibility according to their past experience. AUT, for example, provides this flexible model within its strengths in fields such as telecommunications, materials, manufacturing, and industrial optimisation. Students tend to carry out their research alongside internationally renowned research institutes and centres of excellence, offering real-world relevance and networking.