Postgraduate study in Chemical and Materials Engineering

Postgraduate Chemical and Materials Engineering at the University of Auckland combines advanced technical study and research into some of the world's most pressing challenges. You will develop specialist expertise; work alongside leading researchers and industry partners; and contribute to innovations that improve the way we manufacture, process, design and use materials and resources.

Depending on your interests, you can explore areas such as:

Through postgraduate study, you can explore challenges such as:

• Developing advanced materials and nanotechnologies
• Creating innovative biomaterials for healthcare applications
• Supporting clean energy and decarbonisation initiatives
• Improving industrial and manufacturing processes
• Advancing sustainable chemical engineering solutions
• Developing innovative food and bioproduct processing technologies
• Improving water treatment and environmental outcomes

We offer two main masters programmes in Chemical and Materials Engineering. The right option for you will depend on your career goals, your previous qualifications and your interest in taught or research-focused study.

Advanced specialist study for engineering graduates who want to deepen their expertise and advance their careers.

The Master of Engineering Studies in Chemical and Materials Engineering is designed for graduates seeking advanced specialist knowledge and research experience in chemical and materials engineering disciplines.

• 120-point and 180-point study options, depending on your previous qualification
• Advanced technical courses aligned with industry and research priorities
• Opportunities to undertake industry-focused or research-based projects
• Access to world-class research facilities and laboratories
• A potential pathway to doctoral study for eligible students
  

The programme enables students to build specialist knowledge across areas such as process engineering, sustainable manufacturing, materials design, biomaterials, biotechnology, process optimisation and industrial innovation.

Through advanced coursework, students develop the technical and professional skills needed to tackle complex engineering challenges and support leadership roles across a wide range of industries.

Explore the Master of Engineering Studies.

This is a research-focused degree for graduates who want to undertake an in-depth investigation of a specialised engineering topic.

The Master of Engineering is completed through a supervised research thesis and is ideal for students seeking to develop advanced research capabilities and make an original contribution to knowledge in their field.

Programme highlights:

• 120-point and 180-point research options, depending on your previous qualification
• a 120-point research thesis
• The opportunity to work closely with leading researchers and industry partners
• Advanced analytical, technical and research skill development
• Exploration of a specialised area aligned with your interests and career goals
• Access to world-class laboratories and research facilities
• A strong pathway to doctoral (PhD) study
  
  Students work independently under academic supervision to investigate complex engineering problems and produce a substantial research thesis. Research topics may span areas such as process engineering, sustainable manufacturing, materials design, biomaterials, biotechnology, process optimisation and industrial innovation.

Explore the Master of Engineering.
 

Consider your study and career goals:

• If you are looking to expand your technical knowledge through advanced coursework and enhance your professional practice, the Master of Engineering Studies may be the more suitable pathway.
  
  
• If you are interested in conducting independent research, pursuing a PhD, or developing specialist research expertise, the Master of Engineering may be the best option.
   

If you're not ready to commit to a masters degree, you may also wish to consider:

• Postgraduate Diploma in Engineering
• Postgraduate Certificate in Engineering

These qualifications can help you build advanced technical knowledge and may provide a pathway into masters-level study.

If you are an international student intending to apply for a student visa and later a post-study work visa, it is important to understand New Zealand's study requirements.

• International students must be enrolled in at least 45 points (typically three courses) per semester in an on-campus mode of study to meet student visa requirements. Online courses do not meet Immigration New Zealand's on-campus study requirements.
  
  
• To be eligible for a Post-Study Work Visa, masters students must complete at least 30 weeks of full-time, on-campus study in New Zealand.

For more information, visit the Immigration New Zealand website.

Explore our programme pages or Contact Us for advice based on your qualifications and career goals. For detailed information about a specific programme, including its courses and regulations, visit the Curriculum Catalogue.
 

For course descriptions, please refer to the Curriculum Catalogue.

For general student enquiries, please contact one of our Student Hubs. If you would like further academic information, you can contact a Postgraduate Adviser.