Given my BA in political science and my interest in education, should I pursue a master's in education or political science to advance my career in New Zealand?

Given your political science background and interest in education, a Master of Education is generally the stronger choice for building a New Zealand career, since the country's school system and public sector value sector-specific qualifications over a general political science degree. Your undergraduate background still adds real value within that path.

Comparing Your Two Options

What Each Path Opens Up

• A Master of Education can lead to roles as an Education Policy Analyst within the Ministry of Education, a researcher at the New Zealand Council for Educational Research, or an administrative leader at a tertiary institution.
• Your political science background combined with a Master of Education positions you as someone who understands both government mechanics and classroom realities.
• If you choose Political Science or Public Policy instead, you can still target education by steering your thesis and internships toward educational funding models or equity in New Zealand schooling.
• Note that a standard Master of Education does not grant teacher registration; if you want to teach in schools, you would need a Master of Teaching and Learning or a Graduate Diploma in Teaching instead.

My Advice

If your interest leans toward policy and administration rather than the classroom, go with the Master of Education and use your political science background as your differentiator in applications. If you actually want to stand in front of students, plan for a Master of Teaching and Learning after or alongside it.