About University of Canterbury | Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha
Immersed in the heart of Ōtautahi
– the second largest city in New Zealand – Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha |University of Canterbury provides an experience unlike any other university.
Nestled between Kā Tiritiri o te Moana, the majestic Southern Alps, and Te
Moana-nui-a-Kiwa, the abundant Pacific Ocean, the University of Canterbury
offers students endless opportunities for education, exploration and
recreation, with all the conveniences of a modern city.
People come first at the
University of Canterbury, reflecting our intrinsic values: whanaungatanga,
manaakitanga and tiakitanga. These values are rooted in trust, care and
reciprocity, and were embedded over generations of Ngāi Tūāhuriri and Ngāi Tahu
presence in the region. In fact, in 1861 Pita Te Hori, the first Upoko of Ngāi
Tūāhuriri, instructed the founders of Ōtautahi: “kia atawhai ki te iwi – be
kind to your people.” Today, these words underpin the relationships we foster
amongst our students, staff and community. We are proud to open our doors to
students and staff throughout Aotearoa New Zealand and the world, welcoming
everyone to learn from one another and contribute to our diverse and
flourishing community. The University of Canterbury is a place for everyone.
Our vision for the University
of Canterbury is a contemporary university, a place of learning that is
grounded in our shared history, values our differences, and aspires towards
research and tertiary education that is equitable and accessible to all. We are
determined to remain agile, responsive and pioneering, pushing boundaries to
meet the evolving needs of our students. Since the Canterbury Collegiate Union
was founded with Henry John Tancred’s inaugural address in 1872, the University
of Canterbury has stood for the encouragement of talent without barriers. With
our 150th anniversary on the horizon in 2023, we are reflecting on our past so
that we can take our successes and our learnings into the future as we set our
aspirations for the next 50 years.
Our relationships with
manawhenua are integral to these aspirations, as we strive to ensure that Te
Tiriti o Waitangi is the bedrock of the University of Canterbury. As we
continue to strengthen our partnership and grow our understanding of mātauranga
Māori, we are creating a programme of collaborative knowledge creation that
sets the University of Canterbury apart. In doing so, we also acknowledge New
Zealand as an integral Pacific nation, and embrace the shared whakapapa and
reciprocal relationships with our Pacific neighbours.
We seek to cultivate a spirit
of curiosity that honours those who have gone before us, while contributing to
the pool of diverse knowledge that we will in turn pass on to the next
generation. In this, we are inspired by the Ngāi Tahu whakataukī: mō tātou, ā,
mō ngā uri ā muri ake nei – for us and our children after us. We know that our
students are our future, and we believe in empowering them to overcome the
challenges of the changing world, and to create a more sustainable, equitable
and inclusive future for us all.
The University of Canterbury
provides a learning and research gateway, from the vast expanse of the galaxy
and to the depths of the Antarctic continent – offering the connection,
understanding and opportunities that will enable us to overcome the challenges
facing our society. We pride ourselves on delivering a high standard of
education and facilitating creative and innovative research for the benefit of
both local and global communities. Our international networks provide opportunities
for partnerships, research collaborations and student exchanges. Our academic
leaders are encouraged to be courageous, forward-thinking and generous with
their knowledge. They explore their fields of expertise with integrity and
vigour, encourage conversations and challenges, and share their learnings with
the intent of creating better outcomes for everyone.
Our people are powered by
resilience and determination, using our combined knowledge and experience to
chart a course into the future – aukahatia tō waka, he hekenga tai roa. We
stand with our community in times of need, mobilising our networks to provide
solutions, resources and simple kindness.
Our students are smart, innovative and caring, and we are
proud to support them to grow as individuals and members of our warm and
vibrant University of Canterbury community. We offer endless opportunities
outside traditional learning, giving our students the chance to find
themselves, to connect with others and to positively contribute to a changing
world. When you graduate from the University of Canterbury, you join a whānau
more than 140,000 strong, a cohort of engaged and empowered alumni affecting
change across the globe. There is a place for you at the University of
Canterbury – nau mai, tauti mai – come join us.
About University of Canterbury | Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha
Immersed in the heart of Ōtautahi
– the second largest city in New Zealand – Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha |University of Canterbury provides an experience unlike any other university.
Nestled between Kā Tiritiri o te Moana, the majestic Southern Alps, and Te
Moana-nui-a-Kiwa, the abundant Pacific Ocean, the University of Canterbury
offers students endless opportunities for education, exploration and
recreation, with all the conveniences of a modern city.
People come first at the
University of Canterbury, reflecting our intrinsic values: whanaungatanga,
manaakitanga and tiakitanga. These values are rooted in trust, care and
reciprocity, and were embedded over generations of Ngāi Tūāhuriri and Ngāi Tahu
presence in the region. In fact, in 1861 Pita Te Hori, the first Upoko of Ngāi
Tūāhuriri, instructed the founders of Ōtautahi: “kia atawhai ki te iwi – be
kind to your people.” Today, these words underpin the relationships we foster
amongst our students, staff and community. We are proud to open our doors to
students and staff throughout Aotearoa New Zealand and the world, welcoming
everyone to learn from one another and contribute to our diverse and
flourishing community. The University of Canterbury is a place for everyone.
Our vision for the University
of Canterbury is a contemporary university, a place of learning that is
grounded in our shared history, values our differences, and aspires towards
research and tertiary education that is equitable and accessible to all. We are
determined to remain agile, responsive and pioneering, pushing boundaries to
meet the evolving needs of our students. Since the Canterbury Collegiate Union
was founded with Henry John Tancred’s inaugural address in 1872, the University
of Canterbury has stood for the encouragement of talent without barriers. With
our 150th anniversary on the horizon in 2023, we are reflecting on our past so
that we can take our successes and our learnings into the future as we set our
aspirations for the next 50 years.
Our relationships with
manawhenua are integral to these aspirations, as we strive to ensure that Te
Tiriti o Waitangi is the bedrock of the University of Canterbury. As we
continue to strengthen our partnership and grow our understanding of mātauranga
Māori, we are creating a programme of collaborative knowledge creation that
sets the University of Canterbury apart. In doing so, we also acknowledge New
Zealand as an integral Pacific nation, and embrace the shared whakapapa and
reciprocal relationships with our Pacific neighbours.
We seek to cultivate a spirit
of curiosity that honours those who have gone before us, while contributing to
the pool of diverse knowledge that we will in turn pass on to the next
generation. In this, we are inspired by the Ngāi Tahu whakataukī: mō tātou, ā,
mō ngā uri ā muri ake nei – for us and our children after us. We know that our
students are our future, and we believe in empowering them to overcome the
challenges of the changing world, and to create a more sustainable, equitable
and inclusive future for us all.
The University of Canterbury
provides a learning and research gateway, from the vast expanse of the galaxy
and to the depths of the Antarctic continent – offering the connection,
understanding and opportunities that will enable us to overcome the challenges
facing our society. We pride ourselves on delivering a high standard of
education and facilitating creative and innovative research for the benefit of
both local and global communities. Our international networks provide opportunities
for partnerships, research collaborations and student exchanges. Our academic
leaders are encouraged to be courageous, forward-thinking and generous with
their knowledge. They explore their fields of expertise with integrity and
vigour, encourage conversations and challenges, and share their learnings with
the intent of creating better outcomes for everyone.
Our people are powered by
resilience and determination, using our combined knowledge and experience to
chart a course into the future – aukahatia tō waka, he hekenga tai roa. We
stand with our community in times of need, mobilising our networks to provide
solutions, resources and simple kindness.
Our students are smart, innovative and caring, and we are
proud to support them to grow as individuals and members of our warm and
vibrant University of Canterbury community. We offer endless opportunities
outside traditional learning, giving our students the chance to find
themselves, to connect with others and to positively contribute to a changing
world. When you graduate from the University of Canterbury, you join a whānau
more than 140,000 strong, a cohort of engaged and empowered alumni affecting
change across the globe. There is a place for you at the University of
Canterbury – nau mai, tauti mai – come join us.
One of the important factors when considering a master's degree is the cost of study. Luckily, there are many options available to help students fund their master's programme. Download your copy of the Scholarship Guide to find out which scholarships from around the world could be available to you, and how to apply for them.
University of Canterbury | Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha is one of the top public universities in Christchurch, New Zealand. It is ranked #=284 in QS World University Rankings 2023.
QS Stars is a rating system that helps you select the right university based on your
interests. It provides a detailed look at an institution, identifying which universities rate highest in
the
specific topics that matter to you, like facilities, graduate employability, social responsibility,
inclusiveness, and more.
Flexible yet focused, UC’s bachelor's degree qualifications equip you to solve the problems of the future. Whether you already have your career path mapped out, or are open to new possibilities, you can tailor your studies to suit your interests and goals. You can focus on a particular career from day one, or follow new and exciting options as you discover them. Some qualifications are specialised, with most of your first-year courses already set into a programme, such as the Bachelor of Engineering with Honours or Bachelor of Laws. Others allow much more flexibility, and even give you the chance to choose minors from other programmes, such as a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Commerce. This means you can study diverse combinations of subjects and still complete your degree in three years. As well as bachelor's degrees, UC also offers a number of undergraduate certificates and diplomas.
A research master's degree advances your knowledge in the area of your previous studies, and enables you to conduct a significant piece of independent research (with supervision).
A coursework master’s (or taught master’s) degree provides a structured programme of taught courses at an advanced level. In some cases, a taught master’s can allow you to undertake study in a different professional area from that of your first degree (and so can facilitate a change of career focus). As well as the course component, many offer applied learning opportunities, such as an independent project or industry placement.
A number of UC’s master’s degrees allow for a combination of both courses and research.
Regardless of form, gaining a master’s degree is evidence of high academic attainment, specialist understanding and advanced critical evaluation, research, interpretation, and communication skills.
University of Canterbury | Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha
University of Canterbury, Christchurch New Zealand
# =284QS World University Rankings
26Undergraduate programs
70Postgraduate programs
5QS stars
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About University of Canterbury | Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha
Immersed in the heart of Ōtautahi – the second largest city in New Zealand – Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha |University of Canterbury provides an experience unlike any other university. Nestled between Kā Tiritiri o te Moana, the majestic Southern Alps, and Te Moana-nui-a-Kiwa, the abundant Pacific Ocean, the University of Canterbury offers students endless opportunities for education, exploration and recreation, with all the conveniences of a modern city.
Mission, Vision, Values and Focus
People come first at the University of Canterbury, reflecting our intrinsic values: whanaungatanga, manaakitanga and tiakitanga. These values are rooted in trust, care and reciprocity, and were embedded over generations of Ngāi Tūāhuriri and Ngāi Tahu presence in the region. In fact, in 1861 Pita Te Hori, the first Upoko of Ngāi Tūāhuriri, instructed the founders of Ōtautahi: “kia atawhai ki te iwi – be kind to your people.” Today, these words underpin the relationships we foster amongst our students, staff and community. We are proud to open our doors to students and staff throughout Aotearoa New Zealand and the world, welcoming everyone to learn from one another and contribute to our diverse and flourishing community. The University of Canterbury is a place for everyone.
Our vision for the University of Canterbury is a contemporary university, a place of learning that is grounded in our shared history, values our differences, and aspires towards research and tertiary education that is equitable and accessible to all. We are determined to remain agile, responsive and pioneering, pushing boundaries to meet the evolving needs of our students. Since the Canterbury Collegiate Union was founded with Henry John Tancred’s inaugural address in 1872, the University of Canterbury has stood for the encouragement of talent without barriers. With our 150th anniversary on the horizon in 2023, we are reflecting on our past so that we can take our successes and our learnings into the future as we set our aspirations for the next 50 years.
Our relationships with manawhenua are integral to these aspirations, as we strive to ensure that Te Tiriti o Waitangi is the bedrock of the University of Canterbury. As we continue to strengthen our partnership and grow our understanding of mātauranga Māori, we are creating a programme of collaborative knowledge creation that sets the University of Canterbury apart. In doing so, we also acknowledge New Zealand as an integral Pacific nation, and embrace the shared whakapapa and reciprocal relationships with our Pacific neighbours.
We seek to cultivate a spirit of curiosity that honours those who have gone before us, while contributing to the pool of diverse knowledge that we will in turn pass on to the next generation. In this, we are inspired by the Ngāi Tahu whakataukī: mō tātou, ā, mō ngā uri ā muri ake nei – for us and our children after us. We know that our students are our future, and we believe in empowering them to overcome the challenges of the changing world, and to create a more sustainable, equitable and inclusive future for us all.
The University of Canterbury provides a learning and research gateway, from the vast expanse of the galaxy and to the depths of the Antarctic continent – offering the connection, understanding and opportunities that will enable us to overcome the challenges facing our society. We pride ourselves on delivering a high standard of education and facilitating creative and innovative research for the benefit of both local and global communities. Our international networks provide opportunities for partnerships, research collaborations and student exchanges. Our academic leaders are encouraged to be courageous, forward-thinking and generous with their knowledge. They explore their fields of expertise with integrity and vigour, encourage conversations and challenges, and share their learnings with the intent of creating better outcomes for everyone.
Our people are powered by resilience and determination, using our combined knowledge and experience to chart a course into the future – aukahatia tō waka, he hekenga tai roa. We stand with our community in times of need, mobilising our networks to provide solutions, resources and simple kindness.
Our students are smart, innovative and caring, and we are proud to support them to grow as individuals and members of our warm and vibrant University of Canterbury community. We offer endless opportunities outside traditional learning, giving our students the chance to find themselves, to connect with others and to positively contribute to a changing world. When you graduate from the University of Canterbury, you join a whānau more than 140,000 strong, a cohort of engaged and empowered alumni affecting change across the globe. There is a place for you at the University of Canterbury – nau mai, tauti mai – come join us.
About University of Canterbury | Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha
Immersed in the heart of Ōtautahi – the second largest city in New Zealand – Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha |University of Canterbury provides an experience unlike any other university. Nestled between Kā Tiritiri o te Moana, the majestic Southern Alps, and Te Moana-nui-a-Kiwa, the abundant Pacific Ocean, the University of Canterbury offers students endless opportunities for education, exploration and recreation, with all the conveniences of a modern city.
Mission, Vision, Values and Focus
People come first at the University of Canterbury, reflecting our intrinsic values: whanaungatanga, manaakitanga and tiakitanga. These values are rooted in trust, care and reciprocity, and were embedded over generations of Ngāi Tūāhuriri and Ngāi Tahu presence in the region. In fact, in 1861 Pita Te Hori, the first Upoko of Ngāi Tūāhuriri, instructed the founders of Ōtautahi: “kia atawhai ki te iwi – be kind to your people.” Today, these words underpin the relationships we foster amongst our students, staff and community. We are proud to open our doors to students and staff throughout Aotearoa New Zealand and the world, welcoming everyone to learn from one another and contribute to our diverse and flourishing community. The University of Canterbury is a place for everyone.
Our vision for the University of Canterbury is a contemporary university, a place of learning that is grounded in our shared history, values our differences, and aspires towards research and tertiary education that is equitable and accessible to all. We are determined to remain agile, responsive and pioneering, pushing boundaries to meet the evolving needs of our students. Since the Canterbury Collegiate Union was founded with Henry John Tancred’s inaugural address in 1872, the University of Canterbury has stood for the encouragement of talent without barriers. With our 150th anniversary on the horizon in 2023, we are reflecting on our past so that we can take our successes and our learnings into the future as we set our aspirations for the next 50 years.
Our relationships with manawhenua are integral to these aspirations, as we strive to ensure that Te Tiriti o Waitangi is the bedrock of the University of Canterbury. As we continue to strengthen our partnership and grow our understanding of mātauranga Māori, we are creating a programme of collaborative knowledge creation that sets the University of Canterbury apart. In doing so, we also acknowledge New Zealand as an integral Pacific nation, and embrace the shared whakapapa and reciprocal relationships with our Pacific neighbours.
We seek to cultivate a spirit of curiosity that honours those who have gone before us, while contributing to the pool of diverse knowledge that we will in turn pass on to the next generation. In this, we are inspired by the Ngāi Tahu whakataukī: mō tātou, ā, mō ngā uri ā muri ake nei – for us and our children after us. We know that our students are our future, and we believe in empowering them to overcome the challenges of the changing world, and to create a more sustainable, equitable and inclusive future for us all.
The University of Canterbury provides a learning and research gateway, from the vast expanse of the galaxy and to the depths of the Antarctic continent – offering the connection, understanding and opportunities that will enable us to overcome the challenges facing our society. We pride ourselves on delivering a high standard of education and facilitating creative and innovative research for the benefit of both local and global communities. Our international networks provide opportunities for partnerships, research collaborations and student exchanges. Our academic leaders are encouraged to be courageous, forward-thinking and generous with their knowledge. They explore their fields of expertise with integrity and vigour, encourage conversations and challenges, and share their learnings with the intent of creating better outcomes for everyone.
Our people are powered by resilience and determination, using our combined knowledge and experience to chart a course into the future – aukahatia tō waka, he hekenga tai roa. We stand with our community in times of need, mobilising our networks to provide solutions, resources and simple kindness.
Our students are smart, innovative and caring, and we are proud to support them to grow as individuals and members of our warm and vibrant University of Canterbury community. We offer endless opportunities outside traditional learning, giving our students the chance to find themselves, to connect with others and to positively contribute to a changing world. When you graduate from the University of Canterbury, you join a whānau more than 140,000 strong, a cohort of engaged and empowered alumni affecting change across the globe. There is a place for you at the University of Canterbury – nau mai, tauti mai – come join us.
University information
General
Bachelor
Master
Tuition fee and scholarships
One of the important factors when considering a master's degree is the cost of study. Luckily, there are many options available to help students fund their master's programme. Download your copy of the Scholarship Guide to find out which scholarships from around the world could be available to you, and how to apply for them.
In this guide you will find:
Where to look for scholarship opportunities
How to apply to scholarships relevant to you
A list of available scholarships around the world
A scholarship application checklist
Rankings & ratings
University of Canterbury | Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha is one of the top public universities in Christchurch, New Zealand. It is ranked #=284 in QS World University Rankings 2023.
QS World University Rankings
QS WUR Ranking By Subject
QS Sustainability Ranking
Graduate Employability Ranking
QS World University Rankings
Available programs
Bachelor UG
Master PG
MBA
PHD
Flexible yet focused, UC’s bachelor's degree qualifications equip you to solve the problems of the future. Whether you already have your career path mapped out, or are open to new possibilities, you can tailor your studies to suit your interests and goals.
You can focus on a particular career from day one, or follow new and exciting options as you discover them. Some qualifications are specialised, with most of your first-year courses already set into a programme, such as the Bachelor of Engineering with Honours or Bachelor of Laws.
Others allow much more flexibility, and even give you the chance to choose minors from other programmes, such as a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Commerce. This means you can study diverse combinations of subjects and still complete your degree in three years.
As well as bachelor's degrees, UC also offers a number of undergraduate certificates and diplomas.
Faculty of Arts (7)
Bachelor of Arts
Bachelor of Arts with Honours
Bachelor of Communication
Bachelor of Digital Screen with Honours
Bachelor of Fine Arts
Bachelor of Music
Bachelor of Music with Honours
Bachelor of Māori Innovation
Bachelor of Social Work with Honours
Bachelor of Social and Environmental Sustainability
Faculty of Education (7)
Ako: Bachelor of Teaching and Learning
Bachelor of Youth and Community Leadership
Faculty of Engineering (7)
Bachelor of Engineering with Honours
Bachelor of Forestry Science
Bachelor of Product Design
Faculty of Health (7)
Bachelor of Health Sciences
Bachelor of Sport Coaching
Faculty of Law (7)
Bachelor of Criminal Justice
Bachelor of Laws
Faculty of Science (7)
Bachelor of Data Science
Bachelor of Environmental Science with Honours
Bachelor of Science
Bachelor of Science with Honours
Bachelor of Speech and Language Pathology with Honours
UC Business School (7)
Bachelor of Commerce
Bachelor of Commerce with Honours
UC offers three types of master's degrees:
A research master's degree advances your knowledge in the area of your previous studies, and enables you to conduct a significant piece of independent research (with supervision).
A coursework master’s (or taught master’s) degree provides a structured programme of taught courses at an advanced level. In some cases, a taught master’s can allow you to undertake study in a different professional area from that of your first degree (and so can facilitate a change of career focus). As well as the course component, many offer applied learning opportunities, such as an independent project or industry placement.
A number of UC’s master’s degrees allow for a combination of both courses and research.
Regardless of form, gaining a master’s degree is evidence of high academic attainment, specialist understanding and advanced critical evaluation, research, interpretation, and communication skills.
Faculty of Arts (7)
Master of Applied Translation and Interpreting
Master of Arts
Master of Arts (Thesis)
Master of European Union Studies
Master of Fine Arts
Master of International Relations and Diplomacy
Master of Linguistics
Master of Music
Master of Māori and Indigenous Leadership
Master of Policy and Governance
Master of Social Work
Master of Social Work (Applied)
Master of Strategic Communication (1 year)
Master of Strategic Communication (1.5 years)
Master of Systems Change
Master of Te Reo Māori
Master of Writing
Faculty of Education (7)
Master of Computer-Assisted Language Learning
Master of Education
Master of Education (Thesis)
Master of Hōaka Pounamu | Māori Bilingual and Immersion Teaching and Learning
Master of Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
Master of Teaching and Learning
Faculty of Engineering (7)
Master of Applied Data Science
Master of Architectural Engineering
Master of Civil Engineering
Master of Engineering
Master of Engineering Management
Master of Engineering Studies
Master of Engineering in Fire Engineering
Master of Engineering in Transportation
Master of Financial Engineering
Master of Forestry Science
Master of Human Interface Technology
Master of Mathematical Sciences
Master of Product Design
Master of Product Innovation
Faculty of Health (7)
Master of Counselling
Master of Health Sciences
Master of Health Sciences Professional Practice
Master of Specialist Teaching
Master of Sport Science
Faculty of Law (7)
Master of Criminal Justice
Master of Laws
Master of Laws (International Law and Politics)
Faculty of Science (7)
Master of Antarctic Studies
Master of Applied Data Science
Master of Artificial Intelligence
Master of Audiology
Master of Disaster Risk and Resilience
Master of Financial Engineering
Master of Science
Master of Spatial Analysis for Public Health
Master of Speech and Language Pathology
Master of Urban Resilience and Renewal
Master of Water Resource Management
Master of Water Science and Management
Professional Master of Computer Science
Professional Master of Engineering Geology
Professional Master of Geospatial Science and Technology
UC Business School (7)
Master of Applied Finance and Economics
Master of Business
Master of Business Information Systems
Master of Commerce
Master of Professional Accounting
Full-Time MBA (1)
Master of Business Administration
PhDs and Doctoral degrees (1)
Doctor of Education (EdD)
Doctor of Health Sciences
Doctor of Musical Arts
Doctor of Philosophy
University of Canterbury | Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha
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