Course details

Master of Veterinary Studies – MVS
NZQF Level 9

About the course

Massey's Master of Veterinary Studies (MVS) is an internationally recognised degree, ideal for those seeking a blend of taught courses and research. You can tailor your studies to match your interests from a variety of courses across different areas of veterinary science.

Whether you want to take the first step in a research career, bring evidence-based thinking to your professional role, or deepen your understanding of a specific discipline, the MVS will give you the skills you need.

Please note: This qualification focuses on research skills and does not include clinical skills development. Completion of the MVS does not meet the requirements for veterinary registration in New Zealand. To learn about becoming a registered veterinarian, please contact the Veterinary Council of New Zealand.

A wide range of research areas

The School of Veterinary Science has active research programmes across many areas including animal welfare science, wildlife health, epidemiology, biosecurity, veterinary public health, equine health and performance, production animal health and companion animal health.

Several of the School's research centres hold World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) Collaborating Centre status, placing them among the world's leading groups in their fields.

You'll have the opportunity to research relevant issues and contribute solutions to real-world problems.

Research flexibility

Part Two offers two research pathways, both leading to the same qualification:

  • 60-credit dissertation: Focuses on analysing existing data. This option suits students with a specific research question that can be answered through data analysis.
  • 120-credit thesis: A comprehensive research project that typically involves both data collection and analysis. This option provides more in-depth research experience.

If you have a specific research area in mind, contact the School of Veterinary Science Postgraduate Office through the Enquire button on this page to discuss your interests and potential supervisors.

Other postgraduate veterinary programmes

If you want to improve your knowledge in aspects of veterinary science but are unsure about doing research, then you could consider a Postgraduate Diploma in Veterinary Science.

If you are interested in studying via distance then our Master of Veterinary Medicine may be suitable (there are entry restrictions to this programme).

Entry requirements

Entry requirements

Admission to Massey

All students must meet university entrance requirements to be admitted to the University.

Specific requirements

To enter the Master of Veterinary Studies you will have been awarded or qualified for a Bachelor of Veterinary Science, with at least a B grade average, or equivalent.

The Advanced Veterinary Practice specialisation has an additional requirement. You will: 

  • have been awarded or qualified for a Bachelor of Veterinary Science with at least a B grade average, or equivalent; and
  • be selected into the qualification on the basis of an interview.

You will need to provide copies of all official academic transcripts for studies taken at all universities other than Massey University.

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. 

Prior learning, credit and exemptions

For information on prior learning, exemptions and transfer of credit or other questions:

English language skills

If you need help with your English language skills before you start university, see our English for Academic Purposes (EAP) courses.

Maximum time limits for completion

There are maximum 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.

About the provider

Massey University - Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa is a leading New Zealand university, world-renowned for unique practical qualifications, ground-breaking research, and online courses. 

Each year over 5,000 international students from more than 100 countries find a warm welcome at Massey. We are ranked in the top 250 universities in the world by QS World Rankings and have a well-established reputation for academic leadership, research excellence and innovative teaching.


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