Why do graduate study in statistics?
The fascination of advanced study and the excitement of a career in statistics is one of the world’s best kept secrets. What other discipline can accommodate people whose passions are as disparate as pure mathematics (well, almost pure!), computer science, medical research, research in biology, social research, engineering, forensics, image reconstruction....., or encompass several of these? Statistics can provide a home for people who love playing with theoretical abstractions. It can also provide a home for people who are driven by the desire to solve practical problems - people who have little patience with abstraction unless they can see direct practical applications.
Few other areas can give you as wide a range of employment possibilities. Do you know yet whether you want to be an academic? or to work in business or industry? in agriculture? the health sector? private consultancy? public sector analysis and planning? Postgraduate study in statistics can help prepare you for any of these. And to a large extent, you can postpone making such difficult choices!
Our recent graduates have found employment in industry, research institutes, medical research teams, government departments, market research companies, insurance companies, investment banks, and in universities. For many of these jobs, a postgraduate degree has been essential.
Why Auckland?
We are New Zealand's largest statistics department (in both staff and student numbers) and are situated in New Zealands largest, best known and most productive research-university (25,000 students). Large undergraduate numbers have given us many research-active staff and yet our graduate numbers are still relatively small. What advantages does this confer on our graduate students? - small classes, individual attention and access to lots of experts in lots of areas (see Research in Statistics). This in turn translates into plenty of exciting things happening, and a wide choice of research topics and supervisors. In many universities, one or two well known staff members are overloaded with research students to the extent that they can no longer cope. It is not like that at Auckland. We have an excellent reputation. Our students are sought after by some of the most prestigious of North American institutions. We have many international visitors and close links with other disciplines. In short, we can provide a rich, exciting and rewarding environment.
There are a variety of means by which you can obtain money to help fund your studies.
Auckland is also a great place to live. It has a temperate climate and it is a large (pop. approx. 1 million) cosmopolitan city with a rich ethnic mix and all that implies in terms of facilities and entertainment. Built on two harbours lined with popular beaches and surrounded by islands, Auckland is a yachting paradise and home of the America's Cup. And only 30 minutes from downtown Auckland one can be lost in unspoilt, bush-clad, coastal ranges, or be walking on wild, windswept ocean beaches and cliff tops.
Degrees and Diplomas
The Statistics Department offers 5 different qualifications in statistics for candidates who have completed (or, in some cases, are very close to completing) a Bachelors degree: Masters degrees, a BSc/BA(Hons) degree, a PhD, and for those wanting a qualification which makes fewer prerequisite demands, a Postgraduate Diploma of Science and an Graduate Diploma of Science. Enrolment can begin in the first or second semester.
Masters degrees
The Deparrtment offers two masters degrees: the Masters (MSc/MA)in Statistics is general degree convering the theory and applications of statistcs, and the MSc in Medical Statistics, which covers the analysis of data arising in a medical context.Masters degree in Statistics
This is the standard post-bachelor's degree qualification. Candidates with a BSc enrol for an MSc, those with a BA enrol for an MA, while those from overseas with other backgrounds tend to enrol for an MSc. Our Masters programme is a two-year programme (or 3 years part time with the possibility of a year's extension) which can be completed in a shorter period of time by well motivated students who study over the intervening summer. The first year of the programme consists of entirely of papers (the word "courses" is more often used elsewhere). The second year can be entirely taken up with thesis work, but is more commonly made up of a number of papers and a shorter dissertation. Masters degrees can be awarded with honours. Students who have already completed a BSc/BA(Hons) or Postgraduate Diploma of Science in statistics are admitted to the second year of the Masters degree.
There is some flexibility and choice in constructing a course of study for a Masters degree. However, we also offer a targeted Masters programme in biostatistics The Master of Science in Medical Statistics which is taught in cooperation with the Medical school and is characterised by practical experience in medical research teams.
Admission
For Auckland students: 475.210 and one of 445.252, 445.208, 445.230, plus 8 points in papers at 300 level or higher. At least 6 of these 8 points shall normally be from papers in Statistics. At least a B average is required over the 300-level papers.
For students from outside Auckland: You will be admitted if you have attained a similar level to the local students. This will normally be true if you have obtained your bachelors degree from a reputable university, have done at least two years study in both Pure Mathematics and Statistics, and have satisfactorily passed some advanced statistics papers in the final year of your degree (whether it be a 3 or 4 year degree). We assume a minimal level of statistical theory of about the level of Hogg and Craig ("Introduction to Mathematical Statistics" the Professor of Statistics at your university should know what that means). In some cases, we may demand that you enrol for a preparatory semester before studying for a Master's degree. It is difficult to give specific guidelines and each case will be considered on its own merits.
Requirements
Papers worth 14 points including 475.730 and 475.782 (up to 6 of these 14 points may be chosen from master's level papers in related subjects with the approval of the Head of Department) and either (a) 475.796 Master's Thesis in Statistics (14 points), or (b) 475.797 Advanced Studies in Statistics (14 points), or (c) Masters papers in Statistics worth 14 points including at least one of 475.790, 475.791. Most students choose (b), which is a mix of papers and projects negotiated with the Graduate Officer.
For full-time students:
The first year of the programme (7 papers) is made up entirely of formal papers.
The second year
- For most students, the second year of the programme is normally made up of 3 to 5 papers and a project (or projects) worth 2 to 4 papers. The exact mix must be negotiated with the Graduate Officer, who must approve all courses. You will normally work on your project throughout the year rather than doing all of the work in a single semester. Guidelines on presentation will be given. You will be expected to give a short talk on your project.
- Very well-motivated and prepared students with a burning interest in a particular topic will be permitted to work on a thesis that is worth 7 papers.
Students who have already completed a BSc/BA(Hons), BTech or Postgraduate Diploma (PGDipSci)
Students who have already completed a BSc/BA(Hons) or BTech only enrol for the second year of Masters (work worth 7 papers) as described above.
Level of Honours
The MSc and MA degree may be awarded with First Class Honours, or Second Class Honours, or as a Pass degree. Second Class Honours are classified either as Division I or Division II.
Enrolment
Year 1 for MA and MSc: Enrol for each individual paper
Year 2 for MA and MSc: either enrol Masters Thesis in Statistics (14 points), Advanced studies in statistics (14 points) or enrol for each individual paper and the project of the required size:either Masters Dissertation A (4 points) or Masters Dissertation B (6 points).
All Masters programmes in Statistics must be personally approved by the Graduate Officer. Preferably, your course will be mapped out in consultation with the Graduate Officer long before the official enrolment dates.
MSc in Medical Statistics
The growing emphasis on well designed and properly analysed studies in medical and public health research, together with a growing realisation by medical administrators of the need to base their decisions on reliable data, is increasing the demand for biostatisticians in New Zealand, Australia and internationally. From 1996, the University of Auckland will be offering New Zealand’s first educational programme which is focused on producing biostatistical professionals. It will also be one of the first such programmes in all of Australasia.The programme uses the combined strengths of New Zealand's largest Statistics Department and the Auckland University Medical School, New Zealand's premier medical research establishment, to give a solid grounding in biostatistical theory and computing skills coupled with practical experience on real medical and public health research projects and biostatistical consulting.
Biostatistics is an important cross-over area which allows one to experience both the excitements of medical research and the frontiers of modern statistics. Many of the most important advances in statistics over the last 20 years have been made in response to problems first encountered by biostatisticians. Biostatisticians make valuable contributions to medical research. Very few people are fortunate enough to work in an area where the connection between the efforts they make and the benefits to people everywhere is quite so obvious. Biostatistics offers a range of career opportunities. These include working as part of a medical or public health research team as an applied biostatistician engaged in study design and data analysis. They may even advance to leading such research teams. Such employment can be obtained in medical schools, hospitals and pharmaceutical companies. Alternatively, there is academic teaching and research in biostatistical theory, and analysis and planning roles in health administration. And if you change your mind, the statistics education offered in our Masters in Biostatistics is still broad enough to prepare you for most of the jobs in the commercial and government sectors that attract MSc graduates in statistics.
Admission
Generally as for the Masters in Statistics, but candidates with alternative backgrounds in medicine are encouraged to apply.Requirements
Up to eleven papers including:
475.798 Dissertation in Medical Statistics
plus approved papers worth 22 points chosen from the Statistics schedule and the Community Health schedule, which must include515.703 Epidemiology
475.770 Introduction to Medical Statistics
475.780 Statistical Consulting (with practical experience in medical area)
475.782 Computing for Statisticians
Bachelor of Science with Honours, Bachelor of Arts with Honours
This course is open to students who are about to complete a BSc or BA degree in statistics at Auckland (or some other New Zealand or Australian university) who have not yet graduated and will obtain a B+ average in their third year papers. It is essentially the first year of a Master's degree and can provide a suitable basis for PhD study.
Admission
For Auckland students: 475.210 and one of 445.252, 445.208, 445.230, plus 10 points in papers at 300 level or higher. At least 6 of these 10 points shall normally be from papers in Statistics. At least a B average is required over the Stage 3 papers; we prefer a B+.
For other Australasian students: We will seek reassurance of a similar coverage and level of performance in the Bachelor's degree to that expected of Auckland students.
Requirements
This is a one-year programme. The statistics BSc/BA(Hons) programme consists of 6 papers and a 1-paper project (475.789 (Honours dissertation). Statistics students select the majority of their papers from papers 475.708 - 475.787 listed above. They may select some 700-level papers from other Departments and may incorporate one 300-level (undergraduate) paper in their 6 paper total. It is normal for students to take 3 papers per semester and work on their project throughout the year, depending on when they first enrol. Under special circumstances they may be permitted take 4 papers in their first semester of enrolment followed by 2 papers and the project in their second semester.
Level of Honours
The BSc/BA(Hons) degree is awarded with First Class Honours or Second Class Honours. Second Class Honours are classified either as Division I or Division II.
< All BSc/BA(Hons) programmes in statistics must be personally approved by the Graduate Officer. Ideally, you will map out your course in consultation with the Graduate Officer well before the official enrolment dates. Enrolment must be done in person.Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
The PhD degree in statistics is intended to train the student to be able to undertake research in statistics and its more advanced applications. It is a necessary qualification for an academic career in universities and prestigious research institutes. Major companies overseas specifically hire PhDs in statistics for their research and development teams. In many ways, PhD study is like an old-fashioned apprenticeship. One learns to do research by actually working on a major research project with individual coaching and assistance from one of more supervisors. The work done should result in the preparation of a thesis of original research that makes a significant contribution to the area of specialisation. The degree takes a minimum of two years of full-time study though three years is more the norm.
Admission
Graduates of New Zealand universities admitted to our PhD programme normally have a Masters or Bachelors degree awarded with 1st class honours or 2nd class, division 1 honours. For students from other countries, we look for evidence of similar ability. A Master's degree is required in most cases. We normally require a background in statistics with good supporting mathematics. However, we would also be very happy to consider other applicants with a background suited to any particular part of our research programme, for example, good mathematicians with less statistical knowledge, or good computer scientists with interests in statistical computing issues. Some of our research students do PhDs in cross-disciplinary areas involving another subject (e.g. a medical discipline) and applied statistics. These PhDs are typically have two supervisors, one from Statistics and one from another Department of the University.
Requirements
Formally, the PhD degree in statistics or biostatistics at the University of Auckland is a thesis-only research degree with no formal coursework requirements. In practice, you may be required to take some papers to fill important gaps in your background. Students from universities that we do not have close contacts with are often enrolled in a Masters degree initially and then have their enrolment transferred to a PhD when they show that they are performing well.
The PhD degree takes a minimum of 2 years although 3 years is the norm for full-time students. If you are concurrently holding a half-time Temporary Tutorship, you should expect to take 4 years, although some students in this position have completed in 3 years.
To gain admittance to our PhD programme, you should enter into correspondence with our Graduate Officer. Successful PhD applicants are matched with a supervisor before they are formally enrolled in the programme. Enrolment for a PhD can take place at any time of the year.
Postgraduate Diploma of Science (PGDipSci)
This diploma is designed for candidates who have a bachelors degree with a substantial concentration in statistics and mathematics, and who want a postgraduate qualification in statistics but may not want to make the time investment necessary to obtain a Masters degree. It is a one year course which consists of postgraduate papers in statistics (most taken at a postgraduate level) and a project. Holders of the Diploma can gain an Masters degree with one further year of study. Entry criteria are essentially as for the Masters degree. However, we do not enforce the requirement for four papers (8 points) at the 300-level in cases provided the student has sufficient prerequisites to gain entry to four relevant 700-level statistics papers. If your background is not strong enough to gain entry to the PGDipSci, you should consider the GradDipSci.
Requirements
This is usually a one-year programme but it may be undertaken on a part-time basis. The PGDipSci programme in statistics consists of 6 papers and a 1-paper project (475.693: PG Diploma Dissertation (2 points)). At least four papers are to be selected from papers 475.708 - 475.787 listed above. Up to two 300-level (undergraduate) papers may be incorporated in the 6 paper total. Full-time students normally take 3 papers in each semester and work on their project throughout the year. However, in special circumstances students may be permitted to take 4 papers in the first semester followed by 2 papers and the project in the second semester.Level of Honours
The PGDipSci may be awarded with distinction.All PGDipSci programmes in statistics must be personally approved by the Graduate Officer. Ideally, you will map out your course in consultation with the Graduate Officer well before the official enrolment dates. Enrolment must be done in person.
Graduate Diploma in Science (GradDipSci)
The purpose of this qualification is two-fold. It is designed not only for statistics students wishing to extend their vocational skills in statistics or to prepare themselves for graduate study in statistics, but also for students whose bachelors degree was in some other subject and who want to increase their skills and obtain a formal qualification in statistics. It is a one year course (2 years part time) which consists of second and third year (undergraduate) papers in statistics. Students are expected to have already passed a second year university paper in statistics (or have equivalent experience) and know sufficient mathematics to qualify them for entry to second year papers in pure mathematics.
Admission
Completion of a BSc or an "equivalent level of professional practical experience." Applicants should also have passed the equivalent of Stage I Pure Mathematics (e.g. papers 415.152 or 415.108) and the equivalent of 475.210 or one of 475.201 and 475.208 (with at least a B grade).
Requirements
This is normally a one-year programme but it may be undertaken on a part-time basis. The DipSci programme in statistics normally consists of 7 papers or 6 papers and a 1-paper project. Six papers should be statistics papers selected from Stage II (200-level) or above of which at least 3 papers must be at Stage III (300-level) or above. Students may be permitted to select papers with a statistical content offered by other departments. Paper 475.210 is a compulsory paper if not already passed.
All GradDipSci programmes in statistics must be personally approved by the Graduate Officer. Ideally, you will map out your course in consultation with the Graduate Officer well before the official enrolment dates. Enrolment must be done in person.Entry requirements to graduate programmes
Entry requirements are imposed to try to ensure that the background and skills of incoming students are sufficient to enable them to cope with, and benefit from, the proposed course of study. Many different backgrounds can give a useful preparation for graduate study in statistics and any coding of rules is likely to be too rigid. We are happy to modify our rules for any well-motivated student with an excellent academic record.
Statistics postgraduate papers
At Auckland, a lecture-course is called a "paper". The list of the (post)graduate papers taught in this Department follow. Papers are of two types.
Regularpapers have meaningful names and a description of their contents. These papers are normally taught every second year and some centrally important papers are taught every year.
In addition, there are
Special Topics papers: These indicate areas where we have staff who are willing (indeed keen) to put on special courses whenever student interest and resources permit. International visitors also often teach a Special Topics course that is close to their research interests when they are in Auckland.
All programmes allow the inclusion of one or more undergraduate papers. These papers are described in the Statistics Department’s Undergraduate Handbook.
In cases where it is obviously in your best interests to do so, the Graduate Officer will sometimes construct a graduate "Special Topics" paper for you that is based on an undergraduate paper.
You will also be allowed to include some papers from other Departments that complement your studies in statistics.
If you decide you wish to enrol at Auckland, ask for our booklet "Postgraduate Papers for 2000". This publication describes in more detail which of the papers listed below that will actually be taught in the coming year (or semester) and gives other information including pre-requisites which is useful for graduate students studying in our department. The version of the Postgraduate Handbook applicable to the coming year is not produced until the teaching programme has been finalised. This seldom happens until fairly late in the current year. Occasionally, there are last minute changes in (or additions to) the course offerings facilitated by such things as the arrival of an overseas visitor.
The Academic Year
The University of Auckland works on a semester system. There are two semesters in a year. 2000 dates are: (First Semester) 1 March - 26 June; (Second Semester)19 July - 13 November (for detailed dates, see page 2). Each semester follows a pattern of a 12 teaching weeks, with a 2-week break in the middle, followed by an examination period. A standard full time course-load is 7 papers over two consecutive semesters corresponding to 4 papers in one semester and three in the other. Enrolment can begin in the first or second semester of an academic year.
List of Graduate Papers
Papers taught in 2000 are
Semester I: 475.708| 475.710| 475.727| 475.731| 475.741| 475.750| 475.764| 475.782| 475.787|
Semester II:475.720| 475.730| 475.752| 475.766| 475.771| 475.773| 475.775| 475.780| 475.782|
Statistics Papers:
475.708 Topic in Statistical Education
This paper will cover a wide range of research in statistics education at the school and tertiary level. The course will begin with a consideration of and an examination of the issues involved in statistics education in the curriculum, teaching, learning and assessment areas. The theories and ideas from recent research will be critically examined, discussed and developed.
This fundamental notions of probability theory from an advanced standpoint. Probability with sigma-fields and measurable spaces, the weak and strong laws of large numbers, characteristic functions, the Central Limit Theorem. Additional topics may include ergodic theory, stable distributions.
475.711 Topic in Probability A
475.712 Topic in Probability B
Continuous-time jump Markov processes. A selection of topics from: point processes; renewal theory; martingales; Brownian motion; Gaussian processes; and inference for stochastic processes.
475.721 Topic in Stochastic Processes A
475.722 Topic in Stochastic Processes B
475.724 Topic in Operations Research A
475.725 Topic in Operations Research B
475.726 Time Series
475.727 Topic in Time Series
Stationary processes, moving average and autoregressive (ARIMA) models, modelling and estimation in the time domain, seasonal models, forecasting, spectral analysis and bivariate processes.
475.730 Statistical Inference[Compulsory for Bsc(Hons) and Masters]
Review of inference concepts, sufficiency and ancillarity, the likelihood principle, asymptotic theory, implementation issues, applications.
475.731 Topic in Statistical Inference A
475.732 Topic in Statistical Inference B
475.734 Nonparametrics
A selection of topics chosen from U-statistics, theory of statistical functionals, rank tests, permutation tests, bootstrapping and jackknifing.
475.740 Sample Surveys
Simple random sampling: Basic theory for means and proportions. Finite population central limit theorem. Estimates for subclasses. Stratification: Proportional and optional allocation, Post-stratification. Ratio and regression estimators. Multi-stage sampling: cluster-sampling, systematic sampling, two-stage sampling. Sampling with probability proportional to size. Horvitz-Thompson estimates. Variance estimation for complex designs. Randomization and super-population theories of inference. Adjusting for non-response. Repeated surveys. Methods for the analysis of survey data. Further topics.
475.741 Topic in Sampling
475.747 Statistical Methods in Marketing
Stochastic models of brand choice, applications of General Linear Models in marketing, conjoint analysis, advertising media models and marketing response models.
475.750 Experimental Design
The design and analysis of data from experiments involving factorial and related designs and designs which have the property known as general balance (this includes most of the standard designs), and more general designs with blocking and replication. Response surface methodology. Sequential experimentation.
475.751 Topic in Study Design
475.752 Design of Medical Studies
Design and analysis of clinical trials; design and analysis of case-control, cohort and cross-sectional studies. Meta analysis.
475.760 Regression Modelling
Linear, generalised linear and nonlinear regression, estimating equation methods and general strategies for modelling. Applications to the analysis of data on continuous, ordinal and categorical response variables.
475.761 Topic in Regression Modelling
475.764 The Analysis of Failure Time Data
This course will cover topics in the theory and analysis of survival data. Survival data arises both in the health sciences and in industrial testing. Such data are often subject to censoring and truncation. Both parametric and nonparametric methods, such as Kaplan-Meier estimates, will be covered. Other topics may include proportional hazards regression, censored data and reliability.
475.766 Multivariate Analysis
Selection of topics from multivariate inference (one and two samples, multivariate regression and analysis of variance), dimension reducing techniques (including principal components, factor analysis and multidimensional scaling), discriminant analysis and cluster analysis.
475.767 Topic in Multivariate Analysis
475.771 Topic in Biostatistics A
475.772 Topic in Biostatistics B
475.773 Design and Analysis of Clinical Trials
475.775 Topic in Environmental and Ecological Statistics
475.778 Topic in Statistical Methods for Quality Improvement
475.780 Statistical Consulting
Training in statistical consulting, i.e., applying statistical methods to practical research problems in other disciplines. Together with a member of staff of the Statistics Department small groups of students will discuss with researchers, and other clients, the design and analysis of their quantitative investigations.
475.782 Computing for Statisticians [Compulsory for BSc(Hons) and Masters]
This paper, which is a compulsory for a BSc(Hons) or Masters degree in Statistics, is an introduction to the computer as a tool for the professional statistician. Topics include; an introduction to computers and their architecture, non-numerical computing including data manipulation, text processing and typesetting. Numerical computing using statistical packages and traditional computer languages.
475.783 Topic in Statistical Computing
475.785 Topic in Statistical Data Management
475.787 Topic in Computational Data Analysis and Graphics
Mathematics Papers:
445.707 Theory of Inverse Problems
445.730 Measure Theory and Integration
Concepts, examples and properties of measures of sets with emphasis on the Lebesgue and Lebesgue-Stieltjes measures, the Lebesgue integral, measure spaces, the Fubini theorems, signed and complex measures, the Lebesgue-Radon-Nikodym theorem, the Vitali system, absolutely continuous functions, and the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus. This paper is taught by the Mathematics Department. This course lays important foundations for people interested in probability theory.
Engineering Science Papers:
675.491 Deterministic Methods of Operations Research
An introduction to particular models, techniques and solution methods. Topics include application and solution methods for set partitioning problems; data envelopment analysis; concepts of dynamic and optimality programming; heuristic methods and their applications; GAMS/MINOS.
675.422 Stochastic Decision Models
Introduction to decision and optimisation models in which the data are subject to uncertainty, including topics such as decision analysis, stochastic linear programming, realiability, and Markov decision processes.
675.791 Advanced Linear Optimisation
Techniques for basis handling in the revised simplex method, the upper bounded simplex method and its use in integer programming, the network simplex method, column generation and decomposition methods, methods for semi-iinfinite and continous-time problems, interior point methods for linear programming.
675.751 Studies in Operations Research A
675.752 Studies in Operations Research B
Enrolment Procedures
All intending students have to submit a preliminary Application to Enrol form by early December for the following academic year. If our programmes interest you, please send for forms and information packs as described below as early as possible. Do not wait until you have finally made up your mind.
NB Applications should be submitted to the Graduate Officer, Associate Professor Brian McArdle, and not mailed to the University. All students should discuss their plans with Brian before submitting their application.
For the 2000 academic year
Permanent Residents Enrolled at the Univ. of Auckland in 1999
You should submit an Application to Enrol Form (ATE2) to the Graduate Officer, Associate Professor Brian McArdle, by 6 December 1999 for 2000 academic year.
Permanent Residents From Another University
You should apply to transfer on an Application to Enrol Form (ATE1) by 10 December 1999 for 2000 academic year. Application to Enrol packs are available from:
Students who are not Permanent Residents of New Zealand
You should apply for admission by completing the appropriate form (ATEISU for undergraduates and ATEISG for graduates) by 10 December 1998. The forms, instructions and information packs are available from
In writing for an enrolment pack you may wish to ask for the leaflet setting out Student Accommodation Options. All course details should be worked out with the Department of Statistic's Graduate Officer before final enrolment. Enrolment for a PhD can take place at any time of the year. Local fees apply to: The fees for the 2000 academic year are:
$3360 per annum (Masters, Honours, PGDipSci) NZ$15,000 per year. Under the current immigration policy permanent residency of New Zealand may be granted to persons holding the equivalent of a bachelor's degree provided that other immigration criteria are met. Details of criteria for Permanent Residency may be obtained either from the nearest NZ Diplomatic Post or
The NZ Immigration Service, Private Bag, Auckland, New Zealand. Note that fees for permanent residents are much lower than those for International Students. Most students do at least some work for the Department to help finance their studies. Private tutoring of students in the final years of high school and first year university has been quite lucrative for some of our students. With sufficient notice, scholarships can sometimes be obtained from Research Institutes, companies or medical research funds to fund PhD research on projects of mutual interest and benefit. The funding opportunities for Masters students are more limited, but again, each applicant is looked at on a case-by-case basis. In addition, students with outstanding records can win competitively awarded scholarships. There are also competitive scholarships available from various organisations for niche areas of study, for members of several ethnic groups, and for women. Funding is described under 5 headings: Students who are not NZ or Australian citizens or permanent residents and do not hold work permits should note that present immigration policy states that they shall not be employed in any capacity for more than eight hours per week during the teaching year (February to November). People who are hired as full-time Assistant Lecturers will need to gain work permits.
Fees
$2800 per annum (PhD), Funding Postgraduate Study
Employment provided by the Department
Working for the Department has two advantages. Firstly, there is the money. Secondly, a proven track record as a teacher is helpful, and often necessary, for obtaining academic jobs.
University Scholarships for NZ citizens/permanent residents
The University offers scholarships for graduate study on a competitive basis. The major scholarships offered at the University of Auckland to Masters and PhD students who are citizens or permanent residents of NZ are:
Other Awards for Citizens/Permanent Residents
The following awards are available to at least some statistics students. PhD students who choose to do research in a cross-disciplinary area (between statistics and another area) are eligible for some of the targeted scholarships (e.g., for traffic engineering).Administered by the New Zealand Vice-Chancellor's Committee
- Bank of New Zealand Graduate Scholarships
- The purpose of the Bank of New Zealand Graduate Scholarships is to encourage university study in fields that are likely to be of direct benefit to New Zealand and its people. $4,000 per annum.
- Bank of New Zealand Research Fellowship
- For completion of research projects, preference will be given to topics related to the banking industry, up to $4,000.
- Country Calendar Scholarship
- For Masters students to carry out research relating to the rural sector. $7,500 per annum for up to 2 years.
- Freemasons Postgraduate Scholarship
- To assist able students who for financial reasons, may be experiencing difficulty in completing university studies. Full-time students enrolled in either a Masters or PhD degree will be eligible. Normally tenable for a year, $2000 per annum.
- William Georgetti Scholarships
- For postgraduate study and research, in a field which, in the opinion of the Scholarship Board, is important to the social, cultural or economic development of New Zealand, up to $10,000 per annum for 3 years.
- IBM Postgraduate Scholarship
- For graduates of applied or practical study of computer systems/data processing who have been awarded a Doctoral Scholarship by the University. $4,000 per annum for up to 3 years.
- Ministry of Transport Maori Scholarship
- For Maori students to study for a degree that will prepare them for employment in the Ministry of Transport. $5,000 per annum plus paid vacation work.
- Pukehou Pouto Scholarship
- For postgraduate study in agricultural science or silviculture science (forestry). $5,000 per annum for 2 years.
- Road Safety Research Scholarships
- For graduate study in areas consistent with the priorities set out in the booklet Road Safety Research: Now and in the Future, published by the Road Traffic Safety Research Council. Provides $5,500, up to $2,000 towards fees and up to $2,000 towards research expenses for Masters thesis year, or $15,000, up to $2,000 towards fees and up to $2,000 towards research expenses per year for Doctoral students.
- Shirtcliffe Fellowships
- To assist students of outstanding ability and character who are graduates. $2,000 per annum.
- Todd Foundation Awards for Excellence
- To enable a research project or programme.
- Transit New Zealand Postgraduate Scholarships
- For study in areas designated each year by Transit New Zealand. $5,000 per annum for Masters study or $10,000 per annum for PhD study.
For more information about the above scholarships contact the Scholarships Officer, New Zealand Vice-Chancellors' Committee, Box 11-915, Wellington (e-mail schols@nzvcc.ac.nz).
Awards made by other organisations
- Auckland City Council QEII Scholarships
- For students of Pacific Island Polynesian descent. Provides financial assistance for one or more years of undergraduate or postgraduate study.
- New Zealand Federation of University Women (Auckland Branch) Postgraduate Fellowship
- For a female doctoral candidate. Up to $10,000 (usually $5,000) per annum for one or more years.
- Industrial Research Ltd (IRL) Postgraduate Scholarships
- For PhD research in fields nominated by IRL. Details of the current fields can be obtained from the Dean of Science. $12,000 per annum plus research costs.
- Leonard Condell Scholarships
- For research for the benefit of some branch of agriculture in NZ. Application forms can be obtained from the Registrar, Massey University, Palmerston North.
- June Opie Fellowship
- For graduate students with a severe disability. Provides about $10,000 towards costs.
Further information is available from the Scholarships Officer, The University of Auckland
Scholarships for International Students
The University is able to offer financial aid to a few applicants from outside the country intending to pursue postgraduate study. Each applicant is assessed individually. Opportunities also exist for Assistant lectureships. All financial support and scholarships are awarded on a competitive basis. In some years, the Department is able to offer a limited number of fees bursaries for PhD students on a competitive basis.The University of Auckland offers a number of scholarships to undergraduate students who are citizens of Malaysia, Singapore or Hong Kong. Contact the International Students Office for further information.
- Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan
- The scholarships provide opportunities for graduate students who are citizens of the Commonwealth to pursue advanced courses or undertake research in a New Zealand university. Details of the scheme and application forms are available from the Commonwealth Scholarship administrator in the applicant's home country (a list of addresses is available from the International Students Office, or on request).
- NZODA Postgraduate Scholarships
- The New Zealand Government's Official Development Assistance scheme also provides opportunities to individuals from selected developing countries to study in New Zealand in areas of developmental relevance to their home country. For information on how to apply, contact the relevant agency in your home country or the Development Cooperation Division, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Wellington. [Some further details are available from the Graduate Officer on request.]
Scholarships open to both NZ and International Students
- Bing's Scholarship
- For research in Medicine or Veterinary Science (years 1996 and 2000) or Agriculture (1997 and 2000). $2,000 for the thesis year of a Masters degree. Contact the Scholarships Officer, New Zealand Vice-Chancellors’ Committee for more information.
- Freemasons Scholarships
- For the final year or Bachelor's degree, BScHons or Postgraduate Diploma. $2000 for one year. Application forms are available from the Enquiries Office, Registry or the Scholarships Officer, University of Auckland.
- Freemasons Postgraduate Scholarship
- For Masters degree or PhD. $4000 for one year. Application forms are available from the Enquiries Office, Registry or the Scholarships Officer, University of Auckland.
- Duffus Lubecki Scholarship
- For research in Physics, Chemistry, Biology and the Medical Sciences. Normally awarded on the results of a Masters thesis, but may be awarded on the record of at least one year's research work. $250 per annum for one or more years. For more information contact the Scholarships Officer, University of Auckland.
- Claude McCarthy Fellowships
- For graduates who are enrolled for a doctoral degree at a NZ University to undertake "original work or research in literature, science or medicine". Contact the Scholarships Officer, New Zealand Vice-Chancellors’ Committee for more information.
- Mr M and Mrs T Olechnowicz Scholarship
- To assist students of Polish origin. Further information can be obtained from the Enquiries Office, Registry or the Scholarships Officer, University of Auckland.
- Pacific Islands Leadership Trust Awards
- For students of Pacific Island background. Further information can be obtained from the Secretary, Pacific Island Youth Leadership Trust, Box 7291, Auckland.
- Telecom New Zealand Fellowship in Telecommunications Engineering
- For PhD research in any area of telecommunications engineering important to the development of future telecommunications systems. $15,000 per annum for up to 3 years. For more information contact the Scholarships Officer, University of Auckland.
- Department of Statistics Scholarship
- The Department can sometimes offer scholarships of varying amount to high-calibre PhD students. These are usually supplements to another award.
Information for Students from Outside Auckland
Useful Publications
The following publications provide useful information.
- Student Guide 2000: Services A to Z
- Services available to students at the University of Auckland (including Accommodation).
- Students with Disabilities
- Describes services and support available.
- International Students Guide
- A guide to studying in Auckland.
- Guide for Visitors
- Illustrated introduction to the University, places of interest and amenities.
- Awards Handbook
- Gives details of scholarships and prizes.
- Living and Learning
- Gives information on accommodation options, available from Student Affairs, Accommodation and Conference Centre.
Living Costs
Living in Auckland will cost you approximately $220 per week for food, accommodation and general expenses.
Accommodation
There is a variety of accommodation available in Auckland. For those arriving from overseas we recommend the Halls of Residence for your first year. There are a number of hostels, the fee for a single room in 1998 was from $185.00 - $195.00 per week (depending on locality and size).
An alternative is to join or set up a flat (shared apartment). Advertisements for flats/flatmates can be found in the NZ Herald (Auckland’s daily newspaper), local suburban papers and on noticeboards outside AUSA Office in the Student Union. The cost of flatting varies greatly depending upon condition and locality. You should budget on spending about $100.00 per week for a room in a student flat of four.
The Accommodation and Conference Centre publish a helpful guide on accommodation options. This includes advice on University hostels, flatting and budgeting.
For further information contact the Accommodation and Conference Centre, The University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland, Telephone (+64-9) 373 7599 extension 7691; facsimile (+64-9) 373 7552.
English language requirements
You will need to be proficient at speaking, reading and writing in English to cope with studying postgraduate statistics at Auckland. The University formally requires that applicants whose first language is not English provide evidence of their proficiency in the English language such as minimum score of 550 in TOEFL test or 6.0 in the IELTS.
Immigration
Students from outside Australasia will require a student visa before coming to New Zealand for study purposes. Enquiries about visas should be directed to the nearest Diplomatic Representative in your home country, or to The New Zealand Immigration Service, Private Bag, Wellington, New Zealand.
Other Useful Facilities
This university has all the facilities one might expect from a major university, good libraries and easy access to good modem computer equipment and software, excellent sporting facilities, a theatre, a myriad of clubs and societies, a student health service, a counselling service, an optometry clinic, child care facilities, a number of special officers with responsibilities for such areas as: international students; disabled students; equal opportunities; harassment; and Careers.