About the programme
The Master of Professional Practice is a NZQF Level 9 programme at Whitireia & WelTec worth 180 credits that develops practice at an advanced level and prepares students to lead inter-professional teams. It takes 18 months full-time or up to five years part-time.
The degree is interdisciplinary, with a focus on diversity, inter-professional work, education and leadership. Students strengthen their professional and inter-professional skills while working with a wide range of people, and apply their study and research directly to their current work.
There are three ways to complete it: a thesis, a praxis research project that investigates one's own practice, or a professional practice project. Most of the learning happens online, so students can be based anywhere in New Zealand.
For international students the institute offers an Online to Onshore pathway, which begins with online study and continues in New Zealand's capital region. The programme is designed for practitioners with experience in a professional field who want to step into leadership and research their own practice.
Entry requirements
- Bachelor's degree or equivalent with a B average at Level 7
- Evidence of relevant practice in a related professional field
- Special entry may be granted if the Head of School is satisfied the applicant can succeed
- International students: IELTS 6.5 Academic with no band below 6.0, or equivalent
- Application requires a completed Course Selection Sheet and verified ID
What you study
- Thesis
- Praxis research project
- Professional practice project
- Inter-professional practice
- Diversity, education and leadership
Careers after graduation
- Leading inter-professional teams
- Advanced practice in one's professional field
- Applying research within one's own work
Post-study work visa
Up to 3 years
Depends on the qualification, the length of study and other Immigration New Zealand requirements.
This description is based on the official programme page, checked on 09/09/2026. Ask an NIU adviser about fees and intake dates — the programme page on the Whitireia & WelTec website