Doctoral Studies

These two doctoral degrees are designed specifically for students in professional areas.  These are degrees that consider the working experiences of its student body and encourages them to consider how their research can contribute to the tribal, community and indigenous organisations within which they are located.

This professional aspect also means that students will require support from their profession/community and/or tribal/hapū/iwi bodies. It is anticipated that students who enrol in this degree are at the top of their professional careers.

The point of difference between the two degrees is the target audience. The Doctor of Indigenous Development and Advancement (IDA) is primarily for those who work in an indigenous context or have a responsibility for indigenous aspects within their employment, including international students. The Doctor of Māori Development and Advancement (MDA) is primarily for those who are employed within Māori organisations, for example iwi or government context.

The minimum period of enrolment for the MDA/IDA degrees is three years, although it is highly likely that students will complete the programme in four. In extenuating circumstances, students may be granted an extra year to complete their thesis. Students undertake two years of coursework (4 papers), which is designed to contribute to the doctoral thesis. The final part of the degree is the thesis, which is examined and defended orally before an examination committee represented by a neutral convener appointed by the Doctoral Research Committee, one examiner from Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiārangi (not involved in the candidate’s research) and two external examiners, one of whom will normally be (where appropriate) internationally located.

Visit the Careers NZ website for more information on this qualification.