Be prepared to focus on theory and research for your postgraduate study using the following skills.
Reading, research and writing
Some core skills for postgraduate study are reading, research and writing. To succeed as a postgrad student, you need to:
- be comfortable following complex arguments
- be able to write well
- know how to use the library resources, databases and other online sources to find reference materials on specific topics, including journal articles.
Services offered by Massey library
Postgraduate and PhD writing and presentations
Critical thinking and analysis
To succeed at postgraduate level, you need to:
- have a high level of critical thinking and analytical skills
- read extensively
- be able to develop your own views and defend them.
You may be asked to do new types of assignments and to produce work that is detailed and critically reasoned.
Time management
We recommend spending 10 to 12 hours each week for each 15-credit single semester course or 5 to 6 hours per week for a 15-credit double semester course. With this in mind, choose your course load carefully to make sure you're not overloaded.
Time management is a key part of successfully completing your postgraduate qualification.
Managing your workload
To manage your study and professional workload in order to meet deadlines, you could use strategies like:
- prioritising which task is most important or urgent
- making lists and calendar entries to keep you on track
- setting a timer
- taking short breaks in between tasks.
Chunking work
Divide your study tasks into small, medium and large chunks of work, for example:
- small (less than 30 minutes) – overview reading, brainstorming, proofreading
- medium (60 minutes) – library database search, reference list, reading feedback
- large (more than 60 minutes) – focused reading and note-taking, planning, writing assignments, exam revision.
Routine
Establish a routine to fit your study around your work and personal life.
Upskilling and support
If you think you need to improve some of your skills we have a range of support services to help you.
Study, writing and exam workshops
If you have any questions or if you need a recommendation or some assistance please contact us.
Contact us
If you're still not sure if postgraduate study is for you, what to study or how to apply please contact us. If you're a current student, please include your student ID number.
Related content
Planning your study
Find the information you need to plan your qualification, courses and study workload at Massey.
Services for students
We offer a lot of support to help you have a positive time at Massey and to make the most of student life.