Are you looking to advance your career with a postgraduate degree that offers a global perspective? If you’re passionate about international relations, global development, diplomacy, or cross-cultural studies, then IPU New Zealand (Institute of the Pacific United) offers the perfect environment to shape your future. Located in one of the most beautiful and peaceful countries in the world, IPU New Zealand provides international students with an enriching academic experience, diverse cultural exchange, and exciting career opportunities.
In this blog, we’ll explore why IPU New Zealand’s Postgraduate International Studies programs are an excellent choice for international students, how they can help you build a global career, and more.
Benefits of Studying Postgraduate International Studies
Global Perspective
One of the key benefits of studying International Studies is gaining a broad understanding of global issues—whether political, economic, social, or environmental. By studying international relations, you’ll be able to analyze global trends, develop policy proposals, and contribute to solving challenges like climate change, conflict resolution, and global inequality.
At IPU, you’ll explore both the theoretical frameworks and practical realities of international relations, equipping you to contribute meaningfully to global discourse and action.
Career Readiness
The postgraduate International Studies programs at IPU New Zealand are designed with career advancement in mind. Students on New Zealand study visa are equipped with both academic knowledge and practical skills that are highly sought after by employers in the international arena. Whether you want to work for governments, international organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), multinational companies, or think tanks, IPU’s programs will provide you with the expertise and skills needed to thrive in these fields.
Networking Opportunities
With students from around the world, and faculty members with international connections, IPU fosters a thriving network of global professionals. As a postgraduate student, you’ll have access to alumni who have gone on to successful careers in diplomacy, international business, and other fields, offering you valuable networking opportunities.
Hands-On Learning
The International Studies programs at IPU offer more than just theoretical knowledge. Students are encouraged to take part in internships, fieldwork, and collaborative projects with international organizations. These hands-on experiences are invaluable for understanding the complexities of global affairs and developing practical skills that will help you in your future career.
Postgraduate Diploma in Contemporary International Studies (PDCIS)
The Postgraduate Diploma in Contemporary International Studies (PDCIS) at IPU New Zealand provides international students on New Zealand student visa with an interdisciplinary approach to understanding contemporary global business, management, and international relations issues. This program is designed to equip students with the essential skills needed to navigate complex challenges in the global market, focusing on problem-solving, critical analysis, teamwork, and effective communication. Upon completion, graduates will possess the confidence and expertise to address intricate business resource management problems and make a meaningful impact in diverse roles across the international landscape.
While the PDCIS is a stand-alone qualification, it also serves as the first year for students interested in progressing to the Master of Contemporary International Studies (MCIS), offering a seamless transition to further study.
Programme Structure
Students must complete five double-credit papers, including two compulsory subjects: Research Methods and Resource Management.
In addition to the compulsory papers, students on New Zealand student visa can select from a range of elective papers based on their interests and career aspirations. Elective options may include subjects such as:
- Business, the Environment, and Corporate Social Responsibility
- Contemporary Marketing
- Entrepreneurship and Innovation
- International Human Resource Management
- Leadership, Communication, and Change Management
- People, the Planet, and Sustainability
- Politics and Development
- Science, the Environment, and Policy Making
- Sustainability and Management Accounting
After completing the required 150 credits, graduates will be awarded the Postgraduate Diploma in Contemporary International Studies.
Entry Requirements
- A prior undergraduate degree with a minimum grade average of 50% or better.
- Proof of English language proficiency, equivalent to IELTS (Academic) 6.5, with no band lower than 6.0.
While prior knowledge of the specific fields covered in the program is not required, students are expected to demonstrate essay writing and research skills acquired during their undergraduate studies to succeed in this postgraduate course.
Further Educational Opportunities
The Postgraduate Diploma offers significant academic flexibility. Graduates can apply their earned credits from the PDCIS to transfer into the Master of Contemporary International Studies program. This enables students to continue their studies and complete the research year required for the Master’s qualification. Additionally, completing the PDCIS to a high standard may provide opportunities for graduates to apply for Master’s programs at other tertiary institutions.
Career Opportunities
The PDCIS opens doors to a wide range of managerial and leadership roles in global industries. The program focuses on developing key managerial competencies, including leadership, planning, organization, decision-making, and teamwork. Graduates of the PDCIS are well-equipped for supervisory and management-level positions where knowledge of international business, trade, politics, and environmental and cultural sensitivity is essential.
Some of the job opportunities available to PDCIS graduates include roles in business management, marketing, public relations, human resource management, international relations, and project management, among others. The program prepares graduates for positions where strategic thinking, global awareness, and effective communication are vital.
The Postgraduate Diploma in Contemporary International Studies from IPU New Zealand provides a comprehensive foundation for students on New Zealand study visa looking to advance their careers in a globalized world. Whether you aim to work in international organizations, global businesses, or government sectors, the skills and knowledge you gain will be invaluable for your professional journey.
Master of Contemporary International Studies (MCIS)
The Master of Contemporary International Studies (MCIS) at IPU New Zealand is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to critically analyze, transform, and improve business practices, with a strong emphasis on sustainable development. This program prepares students for advanced roles in international business, international relations, and sustainable development by providing an in-depth, academic approach to understanding and addressing global challenges.
The MCIS combines insights and methodologies from multiple disciplines, offering a comprehensive framework for evaluating and critiquing business operations from a global perspective. Students will learn how to identify and understand the key components of complex management issues, design and execute independent research, and provide actionable recommendations to a wide range of stakeholders. Graduates of the MCIS will have the expertise to make meaningful contributions to international business practices and global policy-making.
Programme Structure
The MCIS is a two-year program that follows the completion of the Postgraduate Diploma in Contemporary International Studies (PDCIS). Students will begin with the PDCIS year, completing five double-credit papers, including the compulsory Research Methods and Resource Management papers. The PDCIS year provides the foundation for advanced study and research in the second year.
In the second year, students will focus on their research project, either by completing a 60-credit Research Report and one additional paper, or by conducting a 90-credit Research Thesis. The second year of the program provides an opportunity for students to apply their learning to real-world challenges, developing their research and analytical capabilities.
Entry Requirements
- Completion of an undergraduate degree with a minimum grade average of 50% or better.
- Proof of English language proficiency, with a minimum IELTS (Academic) score of 6.5, with no band lower than 6.0.
Students should also have strong research and essay writing skills developed during their undergraduate studies, as these are essential for success in the MCIS program.
Further Educational Opportunities
For students who complete the Master of Contemporary International Studies, further academic opportunities are available. Graduates may apply to enter doctoral programs at universities worldwide, advancing their research in fields such as international relations, business studies, or sustainable development.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Master of Contemporary International Studies will be well-prepared for high-level managerial and leadership roles in various sectors. The program focuses on developing essential managerial skills, including leadership, decision-making, strategic planning, teamwork, and integrity. These competencies are critical in supervisory and management roles, particularly in positions where expertise in international business, trade, politics, and environmental and cultural sensitivity is required.
Some of the career paths available to MCIS graduates include positions in global business management, sustainability consulting, international relations, public policy, development organizations, and corporate social responsibility initiatives. Whether working in multinational companies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), or governmental bodies, MCIS graduates will have the skills to thrive in today’s interconnected world.
The Master of Contemporary International Studies at IPU New Zealand is an excellent choice for students who aspire to play a leadership role in the global business and international relations sectors. The program’s unique interdisciplinary approach provides students with the tools to critically assess and improve business practices from a sustainable development perspective. With its emphasis on research, critical thinking, and global awareness, the MCIS prepares students for high-impact careers in an increasingly interconnected world.
IPU New Zealand offers an exceptional opportunity for international students on New Zealand student visa to pursue postgraduate studies in International Studies, equipping you with the skills, knowledge, and global perspective needed to succeed in today’s interconnected world. With its diverse student body, high academic standards, flexible learning options, and strong career support, IPU provides everything you need to shape your future.
West Highlander Immigration
Realise your dream of study in New Zealand, especially postgraduate courses in International studies at IPU with West Highlander Immigration who bring the most up-to-date information when it comes to study visas.