MS in Computer Science in New Zealand: A Complete Guide for International Students

MS in Computer Science in New Zealand is available as various specializations such as Master of Information Technology (IT), Master of Computer Science (MCompSc), Master of Science - Computer Science, Master of Applied Science (MAS) and Master of Information Sciences. It spans from 1 to 3 years and trains you on new technology trends and programming languages in the field of computer science.

• 5 universities of New Zealand are included among the top 300 universities offering computer science, as per QS ranking of 2022. 
• Students are required to have a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field to apply for Masters's in Computer Science in New Zealand.
• Tuition Fees of universities offering MS in Computer Science in New Zealand are between 34,900 NZD to 54,000 NZD. 
• The median salary of computer science graduates in the IT industry in New Zealand was 92,000 NZD per annum. 

Why Study MS in Computer Science in New Zealand?

Masters in Computer Science graduates are employed mostly by the IT industry which has grown in 2022 at a rate of 12% in New Zealand. Thus more jobs are created and students with this degree get better opportunities. Following are some other IT industry-related trends contributing to the popularity of MS in Computer Science in New Zealand among study abroad aspirants:

• The number of IT business reached to 11,000 in 2016 and thus created 29,700 new jobs. 
• In 2021, 75,000 people are working in ICT-related roles in the country.
• IT and Software Development is the highest paying job in New Zealand with an average pay of 73,000 NZD per annum. 

• According to the Ministry of Business, Innovation, and Employment, computer system design is driving maximum growth of the ICT industry.
• The salary of people employed in the computer system design field is twice the overall average of New Zealand.
• The median salary of IT employees has increased from 80,000 NZD per year in 2015 to 92,000 NZD per annum in 2022. 

MS in Computer Science in New Zealand: Top Universities

8 universities offering Masters in Computer Science in New Zealand were included in the list of top 601 universities offering computer science and information technology degree across the world, as per QS Ranking 2022. These are tabulated below along with the program offered and total tuition fees: 

MS in Computer Science in New Zealand: Course Curriculum

MS in Computer Science is a postgraduate degree usually taken up by students of computer science or software/engineering professionals. The degree is offered with Computer Science, Information Technology and Software Engineering specializations. The basic courses that you can study in New Zealand are mentioned below:

• Working in a Digital World
• Computer Programming
• Formal Languages and Compilers
• Algorithms
• Computer Networks and Internet
• Relational Database Systems
• Data and Network Security
• Computer Graphics
• Internet Technology and Engineering

The course structure of MS in Computer Science in New Zealand varies based on the number of credits:  

• For the 180 credit course:
  • Research Pathway - 60 credits of the courses (Part One) & 120 credits for research (Part Two).
  • Professional Pathway - 120 credits for courses (Part One) & 60 credits for professional experience (Part Two).
• For the 120 credit course:
  • This is a completely thesis-based course of 120 points.

MS in Computer Science in New Zealand: Highlights

MS in Computer Science in New Zealand: Admission Process 

To apply for a Masters's in Computer Science in New Zealand, you must have a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field. International students are also required to demonstrate proficiency in the English language by submitting IELTS or TOEFL. 

MS in Computer Science in New Zealand Admission Requirements

To apply at New Zealand universities for Masters in Computer Science program, students are required to submit the following qualifications and documents: 

• Bachelor’s Degree in Computer and Information Science with scores equivalent to 80% or higher.
• English proficiency tests like IELTS/TOEFL.
• Work Experience in a relevant field is preferable.
• Transcripts of previous degrees.
• Recommendation of previous employers if you have any work experience.
• Valid ID proof and passport.

English Proficiency Requirement for International Students

University-wise cutoff scores required to demonstrate proficiency in the English language are tabulated below: 

Visa Requirements for International Students

The various documents required to apply for the student visa in New Zealand are as follows:

• Valid Identity proof.
• Health Insurance coverage and Character Certificate.
• Financial statements must be provided as evidence of minimum funds required to bear the course fees.
• An offer letter from the university or college you applied to study.
• English proficiency test scores 
• Return air ticket to your home country. 
• Travel Insurance.
• Proof of leaving after the end of the program.

Cost of Studying MS in Data Science in New Zealand

Cost of studying for an international student can be divided into three categories: Pre-arrival Cost, Tuition Fees and Cost of Living. 

Pre-Arrival Cost

Pre-arrival cost, also known as the pre-departure cost, includes registration fees of tests required to study in New Zealand, visa registration fees, airfares etc. A summary of such expenses is tabulated below:

MS in Computer Science in New Zealand: Tuition Fees

The average tuition fees to study Masters in Computer Science in New Zealand ranges between NZD 26,000 - 37,000 per year. 

Cost of Living in New Zealand

Apart from the tuition fees, the cost of living forms a major portion of expenses while studying in a foreign country. The following table provides an estimated cost of living in New Zealand: 

Ms in Computer Science in New Zealand: Scholarships

Studying in a foreign country does come at a cost to international students. Thankfully there are plenty of funding options available in New Zealand.

So, let's find out about some of the scholarships in New Zealand available for international students while studying Masters in Computer Science: 

For more scholarships in New Zealand, click here

MS in Computer Science in New Zealand: Job Opportunities

According to Absolute IT Tech Remuneration report of July 2022, there’s a high demand for skilled employees in the IT sector. This is one of the reasons contributing to a 2% increase in median salary from 2018 to 2023. 

Wellington observed the maximum increase of 5.2% in salary from 95,000 NZD in 2018 to 100,000 NZD in 2022 among all regions of New Zealand. However, the percentage of people receiving the bonus is highest in Auckland ie. 30%. 

The most critical part of selecting a particular course is career outcomes and further study options. So, let’s share a few jobs in New Zealand for computer science graduates and their respective salaries below:

The software industry has been growing rapidly, and the average salaries discussed above are a testimony of this fact. So, studying Masters in Computer Science can be a fruitful career option. Students can also choose to pursue a PhD in Computer Science instead of looking for a job. Since MS in Computer Science in New Zealand is globally recognized, international students have the option of pursuing a doctorate from any other country. 

New Zealand is a peaceful country with plenty of scenic beauty, which will ensure a very comfortable and pleasant stay during your studies. Besides, you can work while you learn, which will help you ease off some of your financial burdens.

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