Master of Applied Psychology
Studying for your Master of Applied Psychology degree at the University of Waikato allows you to gain an in-depth knowledge of one of two key areas of applied psychology.
Applications for 2025 entry are now closed.
Applications for 2026 entry open in August 2025.
Why study the Master of Applied Psychology?
When studying a Master of Applied Psychology Degree, you'll choose your specialist area in behaviour analysis or community psychology. The programme develops a detailed understanding of the underlying ideas relating to the chosen specialisation, as well the fundamental principles and guiding values connected to your specialist field.
The Master of Applied Psychology degree studies include opportunities for relevant hands-on experience through work placements and projects, connecting students with various organisations and community groups.
Placement locations also vary based on the chosen specialist area. You could have a placement in an educational environment such as a school, university or special education venue. Projects can take place at research institutions or private practices. Other possibilities could include working with businesses and industry partners, or in the health sector. You may have a placement in a governmental agency, or if it fits in with your specialist area, a zoo.
Degree information
Applying for the MAppPsy is a 2-step process and early application in MyWaikato is encouraged in August to allow time for the school selection forms to be sent out and completed by the September 15 deadline.
Entry into the Master of Applied Psychology is competitive.
Year 1 admission
To be considered for admission into Year 1 of the MAppPsy programme, applicants must have a Bachelor's degree with at least a B+ grade average across the Psychology major. Note that if admitted to Year 1, progression to the Year 2 masters thesis is subject to attaining at least a B+ grade average across Year 1 papers.
Community Psychology:
Year 1 Applications
Please apply via MyWaikato – internal school selection forms close September 15 in the year prior to entry.
Behaviour Analysis:
Year 1 Applications
Please apply early via MyWaikato. No internal school selection form required.
Year 2 admission
To be considered for admission into Year 2 of the MAppPsy programme, applicants must have an Honours degree or Postgraduate Diploma in Psychology (or equivalent) with at least a B+ grade average, including the compulsory papers for the respective specialisation.
Community Psychology:
Year 2 – new to qualification
Please apply early via MyWaikato – internal school selection forms close September 15 in the year prior to entry.
Behaviour Analysis:
Year 2 – new to qualification
Please apply early via MyWaikato – internal school selection forms close September 15 in the year prior to entry.
Once you have applied to study with us you are welcome to speak with one of our senior academics who will help advise you on your studies based on your goals and previous experience. This will ensure you have all the support and advice you need to succeed in your studies.
Please refer to the regulations in the University of Waikato Calendar for official details of admission and degree requirements, available subjects, honours eligibility and more.
Even if you don't meet the entry criteria, please contact us to discuss your options, as all applications will be considered on a case-by-case basis. You may be asked to complete some qualifying papers first to ensure you reach the academic standards.
Estimated fees
$8,779 - $9,685 per year
Domestic tuition fees
Approximate annual tuition fees and costs for domestic students enrolled in one year of full-time study.
Domestic tuition costsScholarships
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Relevant as of 30 October 2024.
All amounts are in New Zealand Dollars (NZD). Tuition fees shown are indicative only and may change. There are additional fees and charges related to enrolment. Please see the Table of Fees and Charges for more information. You will be sent an enrolment agreement which will confirm your fees. View information about fees free study.
Graduate study options
Psychology Career options
Explore our comprehensive guide on psychology careers to discover diverse job roles, necessary education pathways, and detailed registration requirements. Learn the steps to embark on a fulfilling psychology career and find the path that best suits you.
Master of Applied Psychology Degree (Behaviour Analysis) – MAppPsy(BA)
Knowledge, skills, certification, and pathways beyond the MAppPsy.
The Master of Applied Psychology in Behaviour Analysis provides students with:
- a sound understanding of the underlying concepts and principles associated with Behaviour Analysis, and of the applications of these concepts and principles
- a knowledge of the research skills required for behaviour analysis, including the ability to read, interpret and appraise published behavioural research critically, and the ability to conduct fundamental and, where appropriate, applied research in behaviour analysis
- an understanding of functional analyses of problem behaviour and of how to develop an appropriate programme for behaviour change in their area of specialty
- analytic and library research skills, and skills in presenting proposals and reports in both written and oral format.
Master of Applied Psychology Degree (Community Psychology) – MAppPsy(Comm)
Community Psychology is available as a specialist graduate subject. The University of Waikato is the only institution in New Zealand to offer this professional practice programme that has been accredited by the New Zealand Psychologists Board. Community Psychology is an applied degree, suitable for students wishing to work with community groups. The Master of Applied Psychology degree offers a flexible, step-wise progression through the academic and professional qualifications with the potential to lead to registration as a psychologist.
Building on learning obtained in undergraduate degrees, the goals of the MAppPsy(Comm) are to provide graduates with a quality learning experience for transitioning from academic knowledge to professional practice.
Graduates will have the opportunity to become familiar with how community psychology relates to working in a range of contexts and with a range of groups. Through this programme you will develop and enhance your oral and written communication skills as well as your research skills, through: proposals, reports and evaluation.
Waikato MAppPsy(Comm) students learn from experts in the field of Community Psychology. Our team includes University academics along with teaching support from registered psychologists. The programme is supported by professionals (from the Institute of Community Psychology – IcomPA) and alumni (Programme Associates) who contribute from time to time as guest lecturers or examiners.
After completing your MAppPsy(Comm) you can go on to do supervised practice in order to register as a Psychologist. Community Psychologists work in health, education, social development, justice sectors as well as private practice. Community Psychologists are knowledgeable about issues relevant to disability, iwi, environmental and social services agencies, as providers and funders, as well as policy makers. All of these skills makes Community Psychology graduates highly employable.
Learn more about the study of Psychology at Waikato University
What our students are saying
I chose the University of Waikato not once but four times throughout my career journey. I am proud to see how my career has progressed. Now a resident and certified psychologist, I support individuals with special needs, such as ASD and ADHD.Xiaosha MengPostgraduate Diploma in the Practice of Psychology
