- Type of qualification
- Master's degree
- Level of study
-
Postgraduate study
Once you’ve graduated with a bachelor’s degree – or have equal experience – you can study at the postgraduate level. Doctoral qualifications require additional entry requirements.
NZQF level 9Our courses follow the New Zealand Qualification Framework (NZQF) levels.
- Time to complete
-
1 year full-time (180 credits)Part-time available
-
International students
International students are not New Zealand citizens or residents.
- Open to international students on campus in New Zealand
- Note:
- Note: Three intakes per year (March, July, November). Selected entry qualification.
Study a Master of Business Administration – MBA
Massey University’s MBA is built around you – your goals and your future. The full-time (1 year) on-campus programme taught in Auckland is an immersive experience that gets you into the workforce fast
Real world application
You’ll learn from industry experts, senior executives, and globally experienced faculty who bring real-world insight into every lesson. Our MBA features:
- Current business case studies and live challenges
- Consultancy projects
- Guest speakers from across New Zealand
- Assessment via practical, business-focused projects (no exams)
- Learnings grounded in the latest global research and trends.
Specialisations
Add a competitive edge to your MBA with one of three in-demand specialisations:
- Global Business
- Business Sustainability
- Digital Transformation
You have the option to customise your MBA without a specialisation if that better suits your goals.
International recognition
Massey’s business qualifications are internationally recognised
- Top 300 globally – Shanghai Ranking Global Ranking of Academic Subjects 2024
- AACSB ranks Massey in the top 5% of business schools in the world
- Accredited by the Association of MBAs (AMBA)
AMBA accreditation is recognised by employers and industry as a mark of quality and excellence.
Your Massey MBA will help you to:
- Make a meaningful impact on business and society
- Think critically and lead with integrity in a global, diverse environment
- Master cross-functional and strategic decision-making
- Stay career-ready and committed to lifelong learning
Related qualification: EMBA
Are you a senior professional with 7+ years’ work experience and at least 3 in management? Our Executive MBA could be your next step. It's delivered face-to-face over just 10 weekends in under 2 years.
Find out more about the Executive MBA
International students
New Zealand offers a supportive and welcoming environment for international students. Massey is rated 5-Star Plus by QS World University Rankings and is known for approachable staff, small classes, and faculty who bring industry expertise to their teaching.
Upon completion of your MBA study, you can apply for a 3-year post study work visa (conditions apply). Post-study work visa application
Important for international students on campus:
- Apply at least 3 months before your start date to allow for admissions and visas
- Massey has a Licensed Immigration Adviser service for those without an agent
- Learn about studying at Massey as an international student
- Entry requirements for international students
A MBA is a good fit if you:
- Have at least 3 years of relevant postgraduate work experience
- Are ready to fast-track your degree with a full-time MBA in just one year
Entry requirements
Entry requirements
Admission to Massey
All students must meet university entrance requirements to be admitted to the University.
Specific requirements
Third intake application closing date:
- International students: 15 September 2025
- Domestic students: 13 October 2025
First intake application closing date:
- International students: 15 December 2026
- Domestic students: 23 February 2026
Second intake application closing date:
- International students: 27 April 2026
- Domestic students: 22 June 2026
Documents you need to provide
With your application, you need to supply the following documentation:
- copies of official transcripts of all previous university and/or professional qualifications
- your CV showing at least 3 years’ work experience
- an application statement covering supplied questions
- a passport-sized photo for identification purposes.
Application statement
Questions to address in your application personal statement:
- Compared with other choices you considered for your studies, what made you select Massey?
- Why have you chosen to do an MBA at this stage in your career?
- How will you draw on your unique skills and experiences to contribute to your cohort’s MBA experience?
- There will be group work during your studies. Tell us about the ways you have managed to perform in groups previously.
- The MBA will require substantial work in class and out of class. In the past, how have you managed your time to be effective?
- What are your career plans following your MBA graduation and how will the MBA help you achieve them?
Work experience
The work experience requirement ensures that you can contribute effectively to group discussions and participate from a position of experience and knowledge. This means that when you have less than the required 3 years’ work experience, we are unlikely to consider you for this MBA.
English language requirements
To study this qualification you must meet Massey University's English language standards.
Time limits for Honours, Distinction and Merit
Where your qualification is completed within the stated time limit and to a high standard, you may be able to graduate with Distinction or Merit.
- Look for information under ‘Student Progression’ in the General Regulations for Postgraduate Degrees, Postgraduate Diplomas and Postgraduate Certificates.
- Contact us through the Get advice button on this page if you have any questions.
Prior learning, credit and exemptions
For information on prior learning, exemptions and transfer of credit or other questions:
- review the Recognition of Prior Learning regulations
- contact us through the Get advice button on this page.
Maximum time limits for completion
There are time limits to complete postgraduate qualifications. If you do not complete within the maximum time, you may be required to re-apply for the qualification if you wish to continue your studies
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.
Structure of the Master of Business Administration
Structure of the Master of Business Administration
If you study full-time, you will take 180 credits over a period of 12 months.
If you study part-time, you’ll take 180 credits over 2 years and have up to 5 years to complete your study.
This is a parts-based qualification. For progression to Part Two you must have achieved a B- grade average across the courses completed in Part One.
You may enrol in this qualification with or without a specialisation.
To complete a specialisation in the Master of Business Administration you must pass 60 credits in the specified area which includes 2 specialisation courses plus the Action Learning Project in that specialisation area.
The MBA must be completed within 5 years subject to any visa restrictions.
Courses and specialisations
Courses and specialisations
Key terms
- Courses
- Each qualification has its own specific set of courses. Some universities call these papers. You enrol in courses after you get accepted into Massey.
- Course code
- Each course is numbered using 6 digits. The fourth number shows the level of the course. For example, in course 219206, the fourth number is a 2, so it is a 200-level course (usually studied in the second year of full-time study).
- Credits
- Each course is worth a number of credits. You combine courses (credits) to meet the total number of credits needed for your qualification.
- Specialisations
- Some qualifications let you choose what subject you'd like to specialise in. Your major or endorsement is what you will take the majority of your courses in.
Credit summary
180 credits
Completing without a specialisation
- Part One core courses – 90 credits
- Part One electives from the Part One Schedule – 30 credits
- Part Two core courses – 30 credits
- Part Two project – 30 credits
Completing with a specialisation
- Part One core courses – 90 credits
- Part One courses from specialisation list – 30 credits
- Part Two core courses – 30 credits
- Part Two project from a subject Schedule – 30 credits
Requires:
- Completion of Parts One and Two
- Compulsory courses
- An Action Learning project
- Attendance at contact courses, block courses, field trips, studios, workshops, tutorials as required.
A specialisation (subject) is optional and requires 60 credits. Includes an Action Learning project (30 credits) on the subject.
There are regulations around completion of Part One before progressing to Part Two.
Course planning key
- Prerequisites
- Courses that need to be completed before moving onto a course at the next level. For example, a lot of 200-level courses have 100-level prerequisite courses.
- Corequisites
- Courses that must be completed at the same time as another course are known as corequisite courses.
- Restrictions
- Some courses are restricted against each other because their content is similar. This means you can only choose one of the offered courses to study and credit to your qualification.
Part One Core courses (Choose 90 credits from)
Course code: 115764 Leadership and Teamwork 15 credits
Applied and experiential study of leading and working in teams, and the interpersonal communication skills required to be successful.
View full course detailsCourse code: 115765 Managing People and Organisations 15 credits
Applied study of the behaviour and management of people and organisations in the contemporary business environment.
View full course detailsCourse code: 115766 Managing Financial Resources 15 credits
The study of corporate finance and accounting functions in business, including the analysis, sourcing, and use of funds in the pursuit of organisational goals.
View full course detailsCourse code: 115768 Marketing Analysis and Strategy 15 credits
A study of marketing strategies, practices and analytical methods, including a range of marketing tools, techniques and research methods.
View full course detailsCourse code: 115769 Business Economics 15 credits
Study of core micro- and macro-economic principles and how these can be used in a business environment to enable effective decision making.
View full course detailsCourse code: 115774 Operations and Supply Chain Management 15 credits
This course examines operations management functions and methods in pursuit of sustainable organisational effectiveness.
View full course detailsPart Two Core course selection (Choose 30 credits from)
Course code: 115810 Strategic Business in the Global Market 30 credits
This course includes guided field visits to international businesses. Students integrate and apply knowledge from diverse business functions to enhance their understanding of business models and value creation in global business.
View full course detailsCourse code: 115811 Strategic Complexities in International Business 30 credits
This course includes a self-initiated study of international businesses. Students integrate and apply knowledge from diverse business functions to enhance their understanding of business models and value creation in global business.
View full course detailsPart One Elective courses for candidates completing without a subject (Choose 30 credits from)
Course code: 115784 Balancing Innovation and Risk Management 15 credits
An applied and experiential study of the principles and practices that enable leaders to achieve the balance of innovation and risk management that enables resilient, sustainable businesses.
View full course detailsCourse code: 115791 Digital Transformation 15 credits
Applied study of the use of digital technology to solve business problems and exploit new business opportunities.
View full course detailsCourse code: 115792 Business Sustainability 15 credits
This course examines business practices that make organisations sustainable and resilient, with a particular focus on how to balance continuous innovation with good governance and risk management.
View full course detailsCourse code: 115793 Global Business 15 credits
A study of global trade practices and marketing strategies, including a range of trading tools, systems and techniques and their application to international marketing situations.
View full course detailsCourse code: 115796 Designing Globally Competitive Products and Services 15 credits
An applied and experiential study of innovative products and service design to achieve differential advantages for trading in global markets.
View full course detailsCourse code: 115799 Digital Design and Disruption 15 credits
Applied and experiential study of how digital technologies have disrupted various industries and how businesses can design digitally based innovations to achieve competitive advantage.
View full course detailsPart Two Compulsory course for candidates completing without a subject (Choose 30 credits from)
Course code: 115812 Action Learning Project 30 credits
Supervised team-based project focused on deliverable improvement of practices in an existing business or development of a new business opportunity, drawing on knowledge from multiple business disciplines.
View full course detailsMaster of Business Administration subjects
Some qualifications let you choose what subject you'd like to specialise in. Your major or endorsement is what you will take the majority of your courses in.
Business Sustainability
Massey’s Master of Business Administration (Business Sustainability) equips you to lead where business success and sustainability align, building resilience, driving sustainable practices, and turning global challenges into opportunities for long-term advantage.
Digital Transformation
The Master of Business Administration (Digital Transformation) equips you to navigate and lead disruption by designing new processes, building competitive business models, applying design thinking, and leveraging emerging technologies.
Global Business
Develop valuable business skills, closely connected to practice. With the Master of Business Administration MBA (Global Business), you will gain management competence to work in firms and organizations that are active globally as part of an international supply chain or those that recruit staff from overseas.
Without Specialisation
Shape your future with the Massey University Master of Business Administration (MBA). It signals broad leadership, management, and strategic thinking skills that apply across industries.
Fees and scholarships
Fees and scholarships
Master of Business Administration tuition fees
Tuition fees vary depending on the mode and start date of study.
Indicative 2026 MBA tuition fees
- 2026 Domestic on-campus: NZ$52,300 (12 months)
- 2026 International full-time (onshore): NZ$65,150 (12 months)
Fees include eBooks and study materials but exclude non-tuition fees and living costs. International students also need to budget for insurance.
Please note that the total fees for the qualification are indicative only, as course fees can increase each year. Your exact fees will show once you have chosen your courses.
Student loans (StudyLink) and Fees Free scheme
Domestic students may be eligible for a student loan to help towards paying your fees.
The New Zealand Government offers fees-free tertiary study for eligible domestic students. Find out more about the scheme, including how much could be covered and your eligibility on the Inland Revenue website.
- Student loans (StudyLink)
- Fees Free – Inland Revenue
Scholarship and award opportunities
- Joe Walding Memorial Bursary
- Massey Business School Promising Student Assistance Bursary
- Massey University Postgraduate Overseas Research Grant
- Massey University Postgraduate Scholarship
- New Zealand Institute of Management Foundation Scholarship
- Yvonne A M Smith Charitable Trust Scholarship
Fees disclaimer
This information is for estimation purposes only. Actual fees payable will be finalised on confirmation of enrolment. Unless otherwise stated, all fees shown are quoted in New Zealand dollars and include Goods and Services Tax, if any. Before relying on any information on these pages you should also read the University's Disclaimer Notice.
Careers and job opportunities
Careers and job opportunities
Whether you’re pivoting industries, climbing the leadership ladder, or seeking international career growth, the Massey MBA gives you the tools to succeed. This is a qualification that:
- Opens leadership and management roles across sectors; business, government, or NGOs
- Prepares you to be a strategic, adaptable generalist ready for dynamic roles
- Builds directly on your professional experience with instantly applicable insights
This qualification is tailor-made for early to mid-career professionals looking to supercharge their career trajectories. You’ll gain new skills, sharpen your business acumen, and be ready to step into leadership with confidence.
Massey Career Centre
The Massey Career Centre supports you during study and after graduation. Access online and in-person services to build career skills, confidence, and networks.
MBA alumni network
Stay connected. Our Massey and MBA alumni network gives you exclusive access to professional events, networking opportunities, and continued learning—helping you stay at the forefront of business leadership throughout your career.
What our students say
“Since starting the MBA I have been promoted twice and have instituted meaningful change within my teams and the greater business.”
“Guest speakers help students not only to create meaningful learning connections but also offer real-world practical advice and tips that can go a long way – and of course they are also a primary ground for initiating a network in NZ!”
“Massey University’s MBA program has lived up to its promise of being an adaptable study experience in a comprehensive and structured setting.”
Accreditations and rankings
Association of MBAs (AMBA)
Massey's MBA programmes (MBA and EMBA) are accredited by the Association of MBAs
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
Massey Business School is rated in the top 5% of global business colleges by AACSB International.
CEO magazine MBA ranking
This international magazine for executives ranked Massey's MBA in its top MBA qualifications for 2025.
Global MBA
Ranked 10th in Oceania. Ranked 9th globally for Diversity and in the top 100 worldwide for Alumni outcomes.
QS Ranking – Accounting and Finance
Massey is ranked by QS (Quacquarelli Symonds) as one of the top 250 universities for accounting and finance.
QS Ranking - Business Management Studies
Massey University is ranked by QS (Quacquarelli Symonds) as one of the top 500 universities for business and management.
QS Ranking - Economics and Econometrics
Massey University is ranked by QS (Quacquarelli Symonds) as one of the top 350 universities for economics and econometrics.
QS Ranking - Communication and Media
Massey is ranked by QS (Quacquarelli Symonds) as one of the top 150 universities for communication and media studies. QS is an organisation that ranks universities worldwide in various topics.