- Where you can study
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Manawatū campus (Palmerston North)
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International students
International students are not New Zealand citizens or residents.
- Open to international students on campus in New Zealand
- Note:
- Note: Not all listed subject course options are on offer every year.
Specialise in Chemistry for your Master of Science at Massey
Chemistry for the AI Age: Predict. Experiment. Discover. Innovate.
Massey's Master of Science (Chemistry) puts you at the forefront of scientific discovery, giving you the opportunity to lead an independent research project and tackle questions that matter.
AI, machine learning, computational modelling and advanced data are transforming how scientists discover new molecules and materials, analyse complex information and design the next generation of experiments. At Massey, you will combine these powerful new tools with hands-on experimental science to turn predictions into discoveries and ideas into real-world solutions.
Your research project will place you at the centre of this transformation. You will combine fundamental chemical knowledge, advanced experimental techniques and AI-enabled research tools to investigate a problem of scientific and societal importance.
You will learn not only how to use AI, but how to critically evaluate its predictions, understand its limitations and validate computational insights through rigorous scientific research.
Globally renowned expertise
Let our experts help you develop your own expertise.
Massey’s chemistry lecturers have deep expertise across organic, inorganic, physical and analytical chemistry. The department has strong links to related areas like biological science and material science. You'll develop research in collaboration with academic and industry partners, including studies in areas such as drug discovery, biotechnology, forensics, food science, veterinary science, environmental science, materials and sustainable technologies. No matter what your research interest, Massey’s focus on fundamental, natural and mathematical sciences means you will have access to a broad range of experts to assist you to develop your own research and expertise.
You'll have the opportunity to use modern computational and AI-enabled approaches alongside experimental chemistry. Depending on your project, these may include AI-assisted literature analysis, molecular modelling, chemical data analysis, machine learning, molecular and materials design, reaction prediction and optimisation, and generative AI tools for scientific research and coding.
The aim is not simply to use AI to obtain answers, but to develop the expertise to ask better scientific questions, generate and evaluate hypotheses, and turn computational predictions into experimentally testable discoveries.
Broad range of equipment and facilities
You'll have access to a broad range of techniques and equipment, allowing you to conduct research to international standards. From fluorescence spectroscopy to 500 and 700 MHz NMR instruments, our facilities provide the experimental capabilities needed to investigate challenging chemical problems.
You can use computational tools to identify promising molecules, structures or experimental conditions, and then use advanced laboratory techniques to determine whether those predictions are correct. AI can suggest what might work; your scientific expertise determines whether it does.
Friendly environment – passionate scientists
There is a well-established community of fundamental scientists and students at Massey. We have a large active student group – the Fundamental Science Students Association (FUSSTA) – which works together to share discoveries and research and provide peer support.
A Master of Science in Chemistry is a good fit if you:
- have an undergraduate degree in chemistry or a related discipline
- are interested in in-depth, independent research
- want to tackle scientific problems with real-world impact
- want to develop the ability to critically evaluate and apply emerging AI technologies in scientific research.
Planning information
Planning information
If you study full-time, you’ll take 120 credits per year or 60 credits per semester.
The Master of Science is a parts-based qualification. That means you must complete the first part, before moving to the second.
The first part gives you good knowledge and skills that will help you with the research part of your qualification. You must pass Part One before you can progress to Part Two.
Coursework pathway
For progression to Part Two of the Master of Science, you will need a B grade average across the Part One courses including a B grade for the research methods course.
Research pathway
For progression to Part Two of the Master of Science, you will need a B grade average across the first 60 credits of Part One courses including a B grade for the research methods course.
Official regulations
To understand what you need to study and must complete to graduate read the official rules and regulations for this qualification.
You should read these together with all other relevant Statutes and Regulations of the University including the General Regulations for Postgraduate Degrees, Postgraduate Diplomas, and Postgraduate Certificates.
Returning students
For returning students, there may be changes to the majors and minors available and the courses you need to take. Go to the section called ‘Transitional Provisions’ in the Regulations to find out more.
In some cases the qualification or specialisation you enrolled in may no longer be taking new enrolments, so may not appear on these web pages. To find information on the regulations for these qualifications go to the Massey University Calendar.
Please contact us through the Get advice button on this page if you have any questions.
Courses you can enrol in
Courses you can enrol in
Part One
Compulsory courses
Course code: 123711 Research Methods in Chemistry and Nanoscience 30 credits
Four compulsory modules covering research project development and computational methods in science; two modules selected from: statistical methods for data acquisition/handling, BioNMR, single molecule techniques and polymer physics and/or a relevant topic to be negotiated.
View full course detailsCourse code: 123713 Advanced Chemical Synthesis 30 credits
A selection of modules (6 maximum) covering topics in advanced synthetic chemistry, peptides for biological applications, drug design and delivery, modified nucleic acids as probes in life sciences, activation of small molecules in chemistry and biological chemistry AND/OR a topic to be negotiated with the lecturer.
View full course detailsPart Two
Course code: 123897 Thesis 120 Credit Part 1 60 credits
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 123898 Thesis 120 Credit Part 2 60 credits
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work
View full course detailsCourse code: 123899 Thesis 120 credits
A supervised and guided independent study resulting in a published work.
View full course detailsEntry requirements
Entry requirements
Admission to Massey
All students must meet university entrance requirements to be admitted to the University.
Specific requirements
To enter the Master of Science (Chemistry) you will have been awarded or qualified for:
- the Bachelor of Science degree with a major in the intended postgraduate subject, or equivalent, with a minimum B average in the majoring 300-level courses, or
- the Bachelor of Science with Honours, in the intended MSc subject, having achieved a B grade average over the contributing courses and a B grade in an approved research methods course, or
- the Postgraduate Diploma in Science and Technology in the intended MSc subject, having achieved a B grade average over the contributing courses and a B grade in an approved research methods course, or
- the Postgraduate Certificate in Science and Technology in the intended MSc subject, having achieved a B grade average over the contributing courses and a B grade in an approved research methods course.
If you have a Bachelor of Science (Honours), Postgraduate Diploma in Science and Technology, or Postgraduate Certificate in Science and Technology from Massey University as outlined above, you may apply for credit towards Part One of the qualification.
You must submit an approved research supervision plan with your application. This means you need to secure the agreement of a suitable supervisor for your agreed research topic, which requires communication with potential supervisor and industry partner if applicable.
You will need to provide copies of all official academic transcripts for studies taken at all universities other than Massey University.
English language requirements
To study this qualification you must meet Massey University's English language standards.
English language skills
If you need help with your English language skills before you start university, see our English for Academic Purposes (EAP) courses.
Fees and scholarships
Fees and scholarships
2027 tuition fees
- Domestic students: $12,312
- International students: $47,990
Tuition fees are estimates only. The exact fees charged will depend on which courses you select at the time of enrolment. The estimates are for full-time study (120 credits). Fees are in New Zealand dollars and include Goods and Services Tax (GST).
The estimates do not include the Student Services Fee. This fee is $1,236 for on-campus students and $984 for distance students for full-time study (120 credits). For more information about this fee and other fees you may need to pay, see non-tuition fees.
There may also be charges for things such as study resources, software, trips and contact workshops.
Course fees
You can view fees for the courses that make up your qualification on the course details pages.
Student loans (StudyLink)
You may be eligible for a student loan to help towards paying your fees.
Careers and job opportunities
Careers and job opportunities
An MSc in Chemistry gives you more than advanced knowledge of chemistry. It develops your ability to design research, solve complex problems, analyse evidence and generate new knowledge; skills increasingly valued across science and technology industries.
As AI transforms scientific research and industrial innovation, organisations need scientists who understand both the technology and the science behind the problem
Whether you continue into a PhD, enter industrial research and development, or move into areas such as pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, materials, food, environmental science or emerging technologies, you will have the skills to adapt as science and technology evolve.
Future-proof your career and earn more
An MSc in Chemistry can take you beyond established laboratory techniques into research, innovation and scientific discovery. At Massey, you will develop the ability to combine deep chemical expertise with AI-enabled research tools, while learning to critically evaluate predictions and validate them through rigorous experimentation.
This combination can open opportunities in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, materials, food, environmental science, analytical chemistry, research and development, and emerging technology companies.
Chemistry is connected to a substantial and diverse employment market in New Zealand. Current job listings regularly include 300+ opportunities across chemistry, analytical science, research and development, pharmaceuticals, food, biotechnology, materials, environmental science and related laboratory-based industries.
The future of chemistry will not be AI 'instead of' chemists. It will be chemists who know how to use AI.
International students
International students
New Zealand is a great place to study. Massey University’s reputation is supported by our international rankings, accreditations and associations. We are rated 5 star plus by the QS World University Rankings.
Massey University has small class sizes, and our lecturers and staff are friendly and approachable.
As an international student, there are entry requirements that will apply to you. We recommend that you apply at least 4-6 months before your anticipated start date so your application can be processed in time. There are additional steps you will need to take. These include obtaining a visa and travel bookings if your study is to be in New Zealand.
Related study options
Chemistry – Bachelor of Science
Prepare for a future where chemistry, artificial intelligence, and advanced technologies work together to address some of the world’s biggest challenges.
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