Masters in Public Health in New Zealand: Top Colleges, Admission, Fees, Scholarship, Scope

Are you thinking about pursuing a Masters in Public Health in New Zealand? It’s a great choice if you want a career in global healthcare. New Zealand is known for its top-ranked universities, practical learning, and friendly environment for Indian students.
The top Universities for Masters in Public Health in New Zealand include the University of Auckland, the University of Otago, Victoria University of Wellington, Massey University, and the University of Canterbury. These institutions offer MPH programs that last 1 - 2 years. The average tuition fee is around $27,000 - $32,000 USD yearly.
Graduates can work as Public Health Specialists, Epidemiologists, Health Policy Advisors, Health Promotion Managers, and more. The average salary can range from $48,000 - $58,000 USD annually for a fresher graduate.
There are also scholarships such as the University of Otago International Master’s Scholarship, Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship, and University of Auckland International Excellence Scholarship that help reduce costs for international students.
In this blog, we will guide you through the top universities, admission process, tuition fees, scholarships, course details, and career opportunities for pursuing a Masters in Public Health in New Zealand.
Masters in Public Health in New Zealand: Highlights
The table below shows a quick overview of a Masters in Public Health in New Zealand.
Particulars | Details |
Program Name | Masters in Public Health |
Program Duration | 1 - 2 years |
Average Tuition Fees (USD/Annual) | $27,000 - $32,000 |
Top Universities | University of Auckland, University of Otago, Victoria University of Wellington, and many more. |
Common Specialisations | Epidemiology, Health Policy, Health Promotion, Environmental Health, and more. |
Average Salary (USD per year) | $48,000 - $58,000 |
Popular Scholarships | University of Otago International Masters Scholarship, Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship, University of Auckland International Excellence Scholarship |
Top Recruiters | Ministry of Health NZ, WHO, UNICEF, Red Cross, District Health Boards, and more |
Why Choose a Masters in Public Health in New Zealand?
Here are some key reasons why studying Masters in Public Health in New Zealand is a smart choice for Indian students
- Globally recognised universities - Institutions like the University of Auckland and University of Otago are ranked among the top globally for public health programs.
- Affordable tuition fees compared to other countries - The Average fees range between $27,000 - $32,000 USD annually, which is lower than in countries like the USA or UK.
- Practical and Research - Courses focus on real-world health issues, epidemiology, health policy, and community health projects.
- Strong career scope - Graduates work in government health departments, NGO, international organisations, and research institutions.
- Work opportunities during and after study - Students can work part‑time while studying and may qualify for a post‑study work visa.
- Safe and welcoming environment - New Zealand is known for its safety, cultural diversity, and quality of life, making it ideal for Indian students.
Also Read :
Other Popular Countries for Studying Masters in Public Health
Best Universities for Masters in Public Health in New Zealand
The table below lists some of the best universities offering Masters in Public Health in New Zealand with their QS ranking, annual tuition fees, and location.
University | QS World Ranking 2025 | Annual Tuition Fees (USD) |
University of Auckland | 65 | $31,500 |
University of Otago | 206 | $28,000 |
Victoria University of Wellington | 241 | $27,500 |
Massey University | 284 | $27,000 |
University of Canterbury | 256 | $28,500 |
Masters in Public Health in New Zealand: Eligibility Criteria
The table below outlines the general eligibility requirements for pursuing a Masters in Public Health in New Zealand.
Eligibility Requirement | Details |
Academic Qualification | Bachelors degree in Public Health, Medicine, Nursing, or related health sciences |
English Language Proficiency | IELTS: 6.5 overall (no band less than 6.0) OR TOEFL iBT: 90 - 100. |
Work Experience (if required) | Some universities prefer 1 - 2 years of relevant work experience in healthcare or public health. |
Entrance Exams | GRE not usually required. |
Additional Requirements | Statement of Purpose (SOP), Letters of Recommendation (LOR) and Resume/CV. |
Masters in Public Health in New Zealand: Application Process
The following are the steps to apply for a Masters in Public Health in New Zealand.
Step 1: Research universities, check eligibility criteria, and shortlist programs.
Step 2: Prepare required documents (academic transcripts, SOP, LOR, English test scores, CV).
Step 3: Submit online application on the university's official website before the deadline.
Step 4: Pay the application fee.
Step 5: Wait for the offer letter (conditional or unconditional).
Step 6: Accept the offer and pay the tuition deposit.
Step 7: Apply for a New Zealand student visa and arrange accommodation.
Masters in Public Health in New Zealand: Documents Required
Here are the common documents required to apply for a Masters in Public Health in New Zealand.
- Academic transcripts from all previous qualifications
- Bachelors degree certificate (Public Health, Medicine, Nursing, or related field)
- Proof of English language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL scorecard)
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Letters of Recommendation
- Updated Resume/CV
- Passport copy
- Proof of application fee payment
- Work experience letters (if applicable)
Masters in Public Health in New Zealand: Visa Application Timeline
The table below outlines the visa application process for Masters in Public Health in New Zealand.
Process | Timeline |
Receive university offer letter and arrange funds | 3 - 4 Months Before Intake |
Gather visa documents (passport, offer letter, financial proof, medical reports) | 2 - 3 Months Before Intake |
Submit online student visa application | At least 2 Months Before Intake |
Attend medical examination (if required) and wait for decision | 1 - 2 Months Before Intake |
Receive visa approval, book flights, and arrange accommodation | At least 1 Month Before Intake |
Top Entrance Exams for Masters in Public Health in New Zealand
Most universities in New Zealand require proof of English language proficiency for MPH admissions. Here are the common entrance exams:
Exam | Minimum Score Required |
IELTS | Overall 6.5 (no band less than 6.0) |
TOEFL iBT | 90 - 100 |
PTE Academic | 58 - 64 |
Duolingo English Test (if accepted) | 110 or above |
Masters in Public Health in New Zealand: Cutoff
The table below shows the general English language cutoff for top universities offering Masters in Public Health in New Zealand
University | IELTS Cutoff | TOEFL iBT Cutoff |
University of Auckland | 6.5 (no band less than 6.0) | 90 - 100 |
University of Otago | 6.5 (no band less than 6.0) | 90 or above |
Victoria University of Wellington | 6.5 (no band less than 6.0) | 90 or above |
Massey University | 6.5 (no band less than 6.0) | 90 or above |
University of Canterbury | 6.5 (no band less than 6.0) | 90 or above |
Masters in Public Health in New Zealand: Syllabus
The syllabus for a Masters in Public Health in New Zealand covers both core subjects and specialisations to prepare students for diverse public health careers.
Core Subjects | Specialisations |
Epidemiology | Health Policy and Management |
Biostatistics | Environmental Health |
Health Promotion | Māori and Indigenous Health |
Public Health Research Methods | Global Health |
Environmental and Occupational Health | Epidemiology (Advanced) |
Health Systems and Policy | Health Promotion Strategies |
Communicable Disease Control | Mental Health Policy |
Masters in Public Health in New Zealand: Electives & Specializations
The table below represents the electives and specialisations courses if you are planning to pursue Masters in Public Health in New Zealand.
Electives | Specialisations |
Health Economics | Epidemiology |
Advanced Biostatistics | Environmental Health |
Health Promotion in Communities | Health Policy and Management |
Public Health Leadership | Global Health |
Disaster Risk Management | Mental Health Policy and Promotion |
Masters in Public Health in New Zealand: Scholarships
Several scholarships are available for international and Indian students pursuing a Masters in Public Health in New Zealand to help reduce tuition costs.
Scholarship Name | Amount (USD) | Eligibility |
Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship | Covers full tuition | International students from eligible countries with a strong academic record |
University of Otago International Masters Scholarship | $10,000 USD | Outstanding international Masters students |
University of Auckland International Excellence Scholarship | $6,000 - $10,000 USD | Academic excellence and a strong application profile |
Victoria University of Wellington Tongarewa Scholarship | $5,000 - $10,000 USD | International students with strong academic background |
Massey University International Student Excellence Scholarship | $5,000 USD | International students demonstrating academic merit |
Cost of Living in New Zealand
The table below shows the estimated monthly cost of living for indian students pursuing a Masters in Public Health in New Zealand
Expense Type | Average Monthly Cost (USD) |
Accommodation (Rent) | $700 - $1,000 |
Food and Groceries | $250 - $400 |
Utilities (Electricity, Internet, Water) | $100 - $150 |
Transportation | $80 - $120 |
Health Insurance | $50 - $70 |
Miscellaneous/Personal | $100 - $150 |
Career Scope After Masters in Public Health in New Zealand
Graduates of a Masters in Public Health in New Zealand have strong career opportunities in both local and international health sectors. Here are some common career paths.
- Public Health Specialist: Work with government agencies or NGO to improve population health outcomes.
- Epidemiologist: Monitor, track, and prevent the spread of diseases at the community or national levels.
- Health Policy Advisor: Help shape and implement effective healthcare policies and strategies.
- Health Promotion Manager: Design and manage health awareness programs for communities.
- Global Health Consultant: Work with organisations like WHO, UNICEF, and Red Cross.
Masters in Public Health in New Zealand: Salary Package
Graduates of a Masters in Public Health in New Zealand can work in diverse roles across healthcare, research, and policy sectors.
Job Role | Average Annual Salary (USD) |
Public Health Specialist | $50,000 - $60,000 |
Epidemiologist | $55,000 - $65,000 |
Health Policy Advisor | $52,000 - $62,000 |
Health Promotion Manager | $50,000 - $58,000 |
Environmental Health Officer | $48,000 - $55,000 |
Research Scientist | $50,000 - $60,000 |
Global Health Consultant | $55,00 - $65,000 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Ques: What is the duration of a Masters in Public Health in New Zealand?
Ans: The duration is usually 1 - 2 years, depending on full‑time or part-time program.
Ques: What is the average tuition fee for Masters in Public Health in New Zealand?
Ans: The average annual tuition fee ranges around $27,000 - $32,000 USD, depending on the university.
Ques: What are the eligibility requirements for Masters in Public Health in New Zealand?
Ans: Applicants need a Bachelors degree in Public Health, Medicine, Nursing, or a related field, along with an IELTS score of 6.5 or TOEFL score of 90.
Ques: What career opportunities are available after completing an MPH in New Zealand?
Ans: Fresher graduates can work as Public Health Specialists, Epidemiologists, Health Policy Advisors, Environmental Health Officers, and Global Health Consultants in New Zealand.
Ques: What is the average salary after completing a Masters in Public Health in New Zealand?
Ans: The average annual salary ranges between $48,000 - $65,000 USD, depending on the job role and experience.