Learn about Pacific political self-determination
Explore the politics of the Pacific Island states, from Papua New Guinea in the west to Rapa Nui | Easter Island in the east.
Learn about how Pacific nations have forged their own systems of government. Examine political events and movements, including coups in Fiji, language diversity in Papua New Guinea, intervention in the Solomon Islands, and political reform in Tonga and Samoa.
If you want a better understanding of politics in the Pacific region and in international Indigenous contexts, Pacific Politics is the right choice for you.
Why Wellington
Our political science and international relations work is considered among the best in the world. Our academic staff produce world-class research that ranks first in New Zealand for its quality and engagement. We’re also linked with major research institutions worldwide.
By studying with us, you'll hear from and connect with renowned speakers, visiting academics, and politicians and government officials. You’ll also have opportunities for internships and professional networks.
Choose your study path
Pacific Politics is a minor subject unique to the Bachelor of Politics, so you'll need to choose a complimentary major subject. There are six subjects to choose from:
- International Relations
- Political Communication
- Political Science
- Politics of Aotearoa New Zealand
- Politics, Philosophy, and Economics
- Public Policy.
Degree support and advice
We can help you match your interests and career goals with the right course of study.
If you’re a new student, talk to a Future Student Adviser.
If you’re already studying with us, talk to Tītoko—Student Success.
Study options
Find out how you can study Pacific Politics at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.
Future careers
Graduates work in roles that require critical analysis, research, consequential thinking, and strong verbal and written communication skills.
These skills, along with understanding of Pacific cultures, societies, and politics make graduates valuable across many different sectors, including:
- policy analysis
- stakeholder relations
- journalism and communications
- research analysis or advisory roles
- parliamentary research
- NGOs and community organising.
More career information
Find out more about careers.
The government careers website, Tahatū, offers more information about jobs, salaries, and current opportunities.
Scholarships
You may be able to get a scholarship to help fund your studies.
We have first-year and school-leaver scholarships available, as well as specialised scholarships for different groups and subject areas. If nothing fits right now, something may suit you later.
We encourage you to apply. It's a straightforward process, and it could make a real difference.
Scholarships for Humanities and Social Sciences
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This scholarship is designed to support second year students studying History at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington by removing financial barriers to study.
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This scholarship is designed to support second year students studying English at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington by removing financial barriers to study.
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This scholarship was established in 1980 by the former Prime Minister of New Zealand, the Rt. Hon. Sir John Marshall, GBE, CH, BA, LLM, Hon. LLD, to encourage the study of Political Science at Te Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington. The Scholarship was extended to include International Relations.
Scholarships for international students
We are currently offering a NZ$15,000 VUW Undergraduate International Scholarship to all eligible international students enrolling in a Bachelor’s degree.
Your scholarship will be processed automatically when your programme application is accepted, and the amount will be deducted from your tuition fees.
We also offer specialised scholarships for different groups and subject areas. If nothing fits right now, something may suit you later.
We encourage you to apply. It's a straightforward process, and it could make a real difference.
Scholarships for Humanities and Social Sciences
-
This scholarship was established in 1980 by the former Prime Minister of New Zealand, the Rt. Hon. Sir John Marshall, GBE, CH, BA, LLM, Hon. LLD, to encourage the study of Political Science at Te Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington. The Scholarship was extended to include International Relations.
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This scholarship was established to encourage students to complete a major in Language Sciences at Te Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington, and continue to further study or careers in this field.
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This scholarship is to assist students in the last year of their first Bachelors degree at Victoria University of Wellington. The scholarship fund will be awarded equally between male and female students.
Globally ranked
Our Political Science and International Relations subjects are ranked in the top 150 worldwide in the QS World University Rankings 2026.
The QS World University Rankings is an annual global publication that gives overall rankings and subject rankings for more than 1,500 universities worldwide.
Postgraduate study
If you choose to continue to postgraduate study with us after finishing your degree, you’ll join a talented team of internationally recognised researchers doing innovative work.
- Postgraduate Indigenous Studies
- Postgraduate International Relations
- Postgraduate Pacific Studies
- Postgraduate Political Science
If you get good results in your undergraduate study, you could continue on to study for a Master's.
Get help to manage your finances
We can help you:
- budget your money
- manage your student loan or allowance
- work out your accommodation payment schedule.
If you're facing financial difficulties, we can help you apply for the Hardship Fund.
You may be eligible for government or community support, too.
Wellington Global Exchange
If you're a current student at Victoria University of Wellington, you can complete part of your degree overseas. Choose from our 140 partner universities worldwide.
Study Abroad and Exchange Programme
If you're an overseas student, you can spend a trimester or a year at Victoria University of Wellington. You'll earn credits at your home university while you study here.