Doctor of Māori Development & Advancement

Support Māori self-determination and advancement with research that matters

Lead transformative change for whānau, hapū, iwi, and Aotearoa.

The Doctor of Māori Development and Advancement (MDA) at Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiārangi is a doctoral qualification designed for those with professional experience who are committed to advancing Māori aspirations through research and innovation.

Grounded in kaupapa Māori and Indigenous methodologies, this doctoral degree programme supports applied research that contributes to the development and empowerment of Māori communities. It offers a culturally responsive pathway to academic excellence with meaningful impact grounded in mātauranga Māori.

Doctoral degrees are globally recognised postgraduate research degrees at the highest level. Professional doctorates consider the student’s working experiences and encourage them to consider how their research can contribute to tribal, community, Māori and Indigenous organisations with which they are connected.

The Doctor of Māori Development and Advancement (MDA) is primarily for those who are employed within Māori organisations, for example iwi or government contexts.

This professional aspect also means that students will require support from their profession/community and/or tribal/hapū/iwi bodies. It is anticipated that students who enrol in this degree are at the top of their professional careers.

Why choose the Doctor of Indigenous Development and Advancement (IDA)?

Kaupapa Māori Led Scholarship

Engage in research guided by Māori knowledge frameworks and methodologies.

Quality Teaching and Supervision

Mentorship by experienced academic scholars and Māori and Indigenous practitioners 

Collaborative Community Research

Partner with iwi, hapū and other Māori organisations, for community-driven research.

Interdisciplinary Approach

Integrate perspectives from economics, health, education, environmental science, and policy within a Māori worldview.

Flexible, Supportive Learning

Combining taught learning, self-directed research, in-person wānanga and online learning in a supportive kaupapa Māori environment

What you will do in the Doctor of Māori Development and Advancement (MDA):

• Conduct original research in Māori development and advancement
• Apply kaupapa Māori and Indigenous research methodologies 
• Collaborate with Māori communities and organisations
• Engage with hapū and iwi
• Produce a doctoral thesis that contributes to Māori and Indigenous scholarship 
• Influence policy, practice, and innovation through culturally grounded research

Who should apply?

• Experienced professionals and community leaders working within or responsible for Māori development initiatives
• Advocates for Māori advancement and innovation
• Those with vested interest in research areas such as mātauranga Māori, economic development, education, health, environmental studies, policy, social equity and leadership