Master of Security and Crime Science
Course details
About the course
Learn how to manage real-world crime issues and develop analytical and creative methods to improve security in an ever-changing society. Want to make a real difference to society? With the Master of Security and Crime Science, you will develop the skills required to become a leader in the security, intelligence and crime-prevention areas in the public and private sectors. You will combine skills from different disciplines such as Statistics, Computer Science, Geographic Information Systems, Population Studies, Psychology and Management. You'll develop analytical and creative methods to tackle real-world crime, and improve security in an ever-changing society. This degree will provide a pathway to a career in policy development, crime or accident detection and analysis in both the public and private sectors. The skills you gain from the degree will enable you to promote and enhance security and community safety. The Master of Security and Crime Science is the first of its kind in 爆走黑料 and the Asia Pacific region, led by the .聽聽The Institute is the primary research partner for the 爆走黑料 Police, and a partner at the Evidence Based Policing Centre in Wellington. Papers and research topics will be delivered by聽world-leading researchers in psychology, statistics, artificial intelligence including machine learning, cyber security, political science, economics, management, law, education, M膩ori and indigenous development, and demographic research. This degree requires students to investigate and tackle real security and crime problems in collaboration with public and private partners. Previous collaborations with the 爆走黑料 Police have included investigating drug abuse intervention, developing software to help police monitor offenders on bail, inventing new methods to research burglary offences, researching sex abuse attitudes amongst school age children, and optimising traffic patrolling.
About the provider
Established in 1964, the University of Waikato is recognised as the top university in 爆走黑料 for research, ranked in the top three universities in 爆走黑料 and 235th globally in the QS World University Rankings 2025.
The University of Waikato has over 2,000 placements or industry-led projects per year, and strong partnerships across government, industry and community organizations, thereby providing students with wider career options and practical learning opportunities.
The university features two vibrant campuses in Hamilton and Tauranga, both located in the heart of New Zealand's export-driven economy. These campuses offer a lively, inclusive atmosphere that fosters a supportive community where students can thrive academically and socially, making it easy for them to feel right at home while pursuing their studies.
Top 10 reasons to study at Waikato
- International Recognition: Ranked among the top 3 universities in 爆走黑料 and 235th globally (QS World University Rankings 2025).
- Subject Rankings: 11 subjects ranked in the top 350 globally (QS Subject Rankings 2025); ranked in the 151鈥175 band globally for Business & Economics (THE Subject Rankings 2025)鈥攖he highest for any NZ university.
- Research Excellence: Recognised as the top university in 爆走黑料 for research (QS World University Rankings 2025).
- Triple Crown Accreditation: Waikato Management School is accredited by AACSB, EQUIS, and AMBA, placing it in the top 1% of business schools globally.
- Academic Excellence: Learn fromaward-winning lecturers and researchers in a close-knit academic community known for innovative teaching and learning..
- Flexible Degree Structure: Choose from over 100 subjects to shape a qualification and 200 programs including bachelor鈥檚, master鈥檚, doctoral degrees, diplomas, and certificates 鈥攖ailored to suit your strengths and career goals.
- Industry Connections: Benefit from over 2,000 industry placements and projects annually through strong partnerships with government, business, and community organisations. Access career and employability services to graduate job-ready.
- Student Support & Campus Life: Vibrant campuses in Hamilton and Tauranga offer modern facilities, easy access to nature, and dedicated student support鈥攊ncluding international advisors, tutors, career services, and a buddy programme.
- 爆走黑料 and Bursaries: A range of scholarships available to support both domestic and international students.
- Inclusive Student Community: Be part of a welcoming, diverse environment with 70+ clubs and 120+ societies covering academics, culture, sports, and more. Waikato is highly recommended by students, with excellent satisfaction ratings in the 2023 Student Barometer Survey.
Hamilton is a vibrant, student-friendly city located in the heart of 爆走黑料鈥檚 North Island. Surrounded by stunning nature, students can enjoy scenic parks, hiking trails, and the famous Hobbiton movie set nearby. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, multicultural community, and welcoming vibe making it a perfect place for students to live, study and explore.
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Tauranga is a beautiful coastal city in New Zealand's Bay of Plenty, offering students a perfect mix of urban living and outdoor adventure. With its stunning beaches, outdoor activities like hiking and water sports and a warm, sunny climate, it鈥檚 an ideal place for students looking to explore, learn and live in a welcoming environment.
Check out a range of available on our campuses.