What does a Master of Nursing (research) entail?

For both the research portfolio and the thesis, you will be assisted by a supervisor from the School of Nursing.

What is a 90-point Research Portfolio?

A research portfolio represents a coherent, rigorous research-based collection of linked scholarly work related to a specified area of specialisation or scope of practice. It will be about 30,000 words in length (including tables, figures and references). The portfolio is presented for examination at the completion of the work in the same manner as a thesis. A research portfolio must address a clearly articulated research question and include a rationale for all elements of the portfolio. 

The portfolio may include one or more of: a critical review of literature; one or two small studies or clinical projects, or maybe an audit of a taught course related to the area of study.

Normally the portfolio will require the collection of primary data through interviewing, survey, documents etc. A portfolio may include a rework of a conference presentation and/or paper prepared for publication. 

What is a 120-point Masters Thesis?

A 120-point thesis is conducted over one academic year (full-time) or two years (part-time) and represents one full-time year’s work. Length will vary with the nature of the topic, but it is expected that most theses will be about 40,000 words (including tables, figures and references). 

The learning outcome of a thesis is that the student demonstrates an ability to conduct research that makes an original contribution to knowledge. 

The thesis should provide a coherent and competently organised document forming a conclusive piece of work. The thesis will include the rationale for the study, a review of the relevant literature, the research question, aim and objectives, methodology, findings and discussion, including the study’s implications and recommendations for theory and/or practice. 

Contact

Please contact the School of Nursing to discuss your master’s plan before applying for the programme.

postgradnursing@auckland.ac.nz