Social and Community Leadership University of Auckland

Overview

The Social and Community Leadership programme at the University of Auckland is designed to empower individuals to drive meaningful social transformation through robust leadership and innovative problem-solving. This postgraduate course provides the essential tools to navigate complex community contexts and implement sustainable solutions for social good. Students will engage with advanced research and evaluation methods to ensure their contributions to the sector are both impactful and scalable.

Why Social and Community Leadership at the University of Auckland?

This programme stands out for its exceptional flexibility, allowing students to complete their studies entirely online, through face-to-face learning, or via a blended approach. It is specifically tailored for those currently working in government, not-for-profit, and community sectors who wish to balance professional commitments with academic advancement. The curriculum is built on a strong foundation of systems thinking and ethical practice, ensuring graduates can address the root causes of social issues. Students also benefit from the ability to choose electives from diverse faculties, including Science, Arts, and Medical and Health Sciences, providing a truly multidisciplinary perspective on leadership.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: NZD 43674 per year
• National fee: NZD 9575 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is divided into taught and research pathways, focusing on core competencies in social change and evaluation. Modules may include:

• Innovation, Design and Evaluation
• Leadership, Ethics, Systems
• Programme Evaluation
• Enacting Social Change
• Issues in Māori Politics and Policy
• Health, Social Justice and Social Work
• Research Methodologies
• Māori and Indigenous Research

Careers with Social and Community Leadership

Graduates are prepared for high-impact roles across various sectors dedicated to social development and community well-being. The programme equips students with the expertise required for strategic leadership and project management. Potential career paths and roles include:

• Community and social organisation leader
• Social and community facilitator or advocate
• Policy analyst
• Social innovator or consultant
• Programme designer and project manager
• Community developer and designer
• Social and community educator
• Learning designer

The skills gained in evaluation and systems thinking also allow graduates to pursue further academic research, such as a Doctor of Philosophy, to continue advancing knowledge in the field of social change.