GENERAL

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

RD
Rajat Diwakar • 8 Mins read • 2 Aug 25
Masters in Public Health in New ZealandMasters in Public Health in New Zealand

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




Masters in Public Health in Canada

Masters in Public Health in USA

Masters in Public Health in Ireland


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.