Master of Health, Sport and Human Performance
The Master of Health, Sport and Human Performance sets you up with a research-based qualification teaching you to critically examine how political, cultural, social and economic factors influence the meaning and nature of sport, exercise and leisure.
180 points, 1.5 years
Hamilton, Tauranga
Papers offered differ by location. Find a Paper for full location info.
Trimester A (March)
Why study the Master of Health, Sport and Human Performance?
While studying the Master of Health, Sport & Human Performance (MHSHP), you'll explore how sociological perspectives; psychological and physiological factors influence movement and performance in sport and exercise. Throughout your course of study you'll receive opportunities to get involved in real world research to make a difference in people’s lives, as well as connect with elite athletes and teams.
Te Huataki Waiora School of Health boasts world-renowned active researchers and lecturers who have international expertise and reputations. Throughout your course of study you'll receive opportunities to get involved in real-world research to make a difference in people’s lives, as well as equipping you with the practical skills to work in contexts that are relevant to you.
You will work in our high-tech laboratories at the Cambridge Avantidrome or the University of Waikato Adams Centre for High Performance in Tauranga, and will benefit from our collaborative relationships established with local organisations. These partnerships bring about opportunities for you to connect with elite athletes and teams for research including; Waikato Chiefs, BoP Magic, Cycling NZ and community organisations such as Parafed Waikato, Sport Waikato and working relationships with Paralympics New Zealand and Special Olympics New Zealand.
The MHSHP is a flexible degree, giving you the option to tailor the programme to meet your needs. Our staff hold the expertise to supervise a diverse range of projects, and you have the option of completing your degree over one year full-time, or part time while working.
Study flexibly
At masters level you can study a range of papers. The MHSHP usually comprises 180 points (500 level) including required and optional papers. You are required to choose one or more option(s) from the below. You can also pursue an area of interest in greater depth by undertaking a research project or thesis, under one of our expert supervisors. You are required to take a research methods paper.
Parts of this qualification can be completed in Tauranga.
Career Opportunities
- Applied Exercise Scientist/ Exercise Physiologist
- Coach
- Coach Educator
- Coach Developer
- Health, Physical Education or Dance Teacher
- Human Movement or High Performance Manager
- Outdoor Education Instructor/manager
- Researcher in Health, Sport and Human Movement
- Strength and Conditioning Coach
180 points, 1.5 years
Hamilton, Tauranga
Papers offered differ by location. Find a Paper for full location info.
Trimester A (March)
Degree information
See the University of Waikato Calendar for all Regulations for the Master of Health, Sport and Human Performance.
To complete a MHSHP:
- Students who qualified with a BHSHP must gain a further 180 points at 500 level.
- Students who qualified with a BHSHP with at least second class honours (second division) or a PGDip Health, Sport and Human Performance must gain a further 120 points at 500 level.
- All students must include a thesis (120 or 90 points), a dissertation (90 points) or a directed study (30 points).
- All students must complete the papers prescribed in the University of Waikato Catalogue of Papers.
Estimated fees
$8,084 - $9,850 per year
Domestic tuition fees
Approximate annual tuition fees and costs for domestic students enrolled in one year of full-time study.
Domestic tuition costsScholarships
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Relevant as of 10 January 2025.
All amounts are in New Zealand Dollars (NZD). Tuition fees shown are indicative only and may change. There are additional fees and charges related to enrolment. Please see the Table of Fees and Charges for more information. You will be sent an enrolment agreement which will confirm your fees. View information about fees free study.
Study in Tauranga
The MHSHP can be partially completed in Tauranga. You will work in our high-tech laboratory at the University of Waikato Adams Centre for High Performance which was established in partnership with the Tauranga City Council. It features a state-of-the-art chamber that allows for manipulation of heat, humidity and altitude for research, teaching and athlete acclimatisation purposes.
Graduate study options
Current Research
- Physiology of Exercise and training adaptation, Dr Martyn Beaven
- Coaching research, Dr Robert Townsend
- Biomechanics and Injury Prevention, Dr Kim Hebert-Losier
- Sport and movement researchers, Dr Holly Thorpe and Dr Belinda Wheaton (Marsden Research Grant recipient researching sport in sites of war, conflict and disaster)
- Sleep and Energy Availability in Athletes, Dr Shannon O'Donnell
- Strength and Conditioning, Dr Daniel McMaster
What our students are saying
Waikato was the perfect fit for me. The uni has loads of connections with top sporting teams, which gives you the opportunity to work with some incredible athletes.Jade WharemateBachelor of Sport and Human Performance, Master of Health, Sport and Human Performance
