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HomeUniversitiesUniversity of Canterbury | Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha
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.
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.
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 #=261 in QS World University Rankings 2025.
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.
Living in Christchurch is more
affordable than other New Zealand cities, so students have more budget to put
towards enjoying all the opportunities the Canterbury region has to offer.
Living costs will depend on
factors like your accommodation selection, personal circumstances, and
lifestyle. The University of Canterbury recommends budgeting at least NZ$20,000
per year for living expenses.
What is the employment situation in Christchurch, and what is the main increasing industry in Christchurch?
UC is ranked 2nd in New Zealand
for employability outcomes and employer reputation (2025 Quacquarelli Symonds
(QS) Rankings).
UC offers Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) opportunities, including work placements and work-related projects, to help students be career-ready upon graduation. International students can apply for a three-year post-study work visa after completing their degree. Starting salaries for UC graduates can widely vary, but typically range from NZ$50,000 to NZ$60,000 per year.
Christchurch is New Zealand’s second major business centre and the national hub for Information and Communications Technology (ICT), known as New Zealand’s digital city. It is a leading centre for innovation, research, and technology, with key sectors including engineering, biotechnology, avionics, electronics, software engineering, agriculture, education, forestry, nutraceuticals, Antarctic research, and tourism. More than half of UC graduates find employment in the Canterbury region after completing studies.
What does the student life look like in Christchurch and UC?
Ranked in the top 100 QS Best
Student Cities 2025, Christchurch offers students an exciting, vibrant
lifestyle anchored in the beauty and serenity of the surrounding natural
environment.
UC has one of the best club
cultures of any university in New Zealand, offering a vibrant student
experience. From academic and cultural to
sport, food, gaming, and more, there are over 150 clubs and societies that you
can join or participate in – and if there isn’t already one that covers your
interest, it’s easy to start your own! Each club provides a wide variety
of opportunities, including volunteering, community projects, internships, road
trips, and social activities.
The University of Canterbury
Students’ Association (UCSA) also holds a range of free and ticketed events on
campus year-round, including concerts, barbeques, and the legendary Tea Party.
What are the main facilities at UC?
UC has an abundance of facilities
and services on campus and in the field. From learning spaces and early
childhood services to health and recreation, there’s range of facilities to
support our student’s academic journey.
Libraries: UC has three libraries on campus and
provides access to an extensive collection of physical and online material.
There’s expert help available to help support learning and research.
Recreation Centre: A gym with weights, cardio
equipment, group fitness classes, and more.
Health Centre: Provides affordable healthcare
services on campus.
Accommodation: Various halls of residence and
off-campus housing options.
Other Facilities: Printing and copying services,
parking, early childhood learning centres to support your family, and various
businesses like a food court, pharmacy, and bookshop.
What are the international scholarship offerings at UC?
UC offers a range of scholarships
for international students at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. UC
offers over $20 million in scholarships and prizes annually. These include the
UC Engineering International Scholarship, UC International First Year
Scholarship and academic merit-based Deans Awards, High achievers’ scholarships
among others.
University of Canterbury | Te Whare Wānanga o Waitahaadvanced PublicVery High15yes398832135L97
University of Canterbury | Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha
University of Canterbury, Christchurch New Zealand
# =261QS World University Rankings
25Undergraduate programs
67Postgraduate programs
5QS stars
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.
Upcoming Events
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.
Upcoming Events
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.
Arts and Humanities (6)
Bachelor of Arts
Bachelor of Arts with Honours
Bachelor of Fine Arts
Bachelor of Music
Bachelor of Music with Honours
Business and Management (6)
Bachelor of Commerce
Bachelor of Commerce with Honours
Engineering and Technology (6)
Bachelor of Data Science
Bachelor of Engineering with Honours
Bachelor of Product Design
Life Sciences and Medicine (6)
Bachelor of Forestry Science
Bachelor of Health Sciences
Bachelor of Speech and Language Pathology with Honours
Natural Sciences (6)
Bachelor of Environmental Science with Honours
Bachelor of Science
Bachelor of Science with Honours
Social Sciences and Management (6)
Ako: Bachelor of Teaching and Learning
Bachelor of Communication
Bachelor of Criminal Justice
Bachelor of Digital Screen with Honours
Bachelor of Laws
Bachelor of Social Work with Honours
Bachelor of Social and Environmental Sustainability
Bachelor of Sport Coaching
Bachelor of Youth and Community Leadership
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.
Arts and Humanities (6)
Master of Applied Translation and Interpreting
Master of Arts
Master of Arts (Thesis)
Master of Fine Arts
Master of Linguistics
Master of Music
Master of Urban Resilience and Renewal
Master of Writing
Business and Management (6)
Master of Applied Finance and Economics
Master of Business
Master of Business Information Systems
Master of Commerce
Master of Professional Accounting
Engineering and Technology (6)
Master of Applied Data Science
Master of Applied Data Science
Master of Architectural Engineering
Master of Artificial Intelligence
Master of Civil Engineering
Master of Engineering
Master of Engineering Management
Master of Engineering Studies
Master of Engineering in Fire Engineering
Master of Financial Engineering
Master of Financial Engineering
Master of Human Interface Technology
Master of Product Design
Master of Product Innovation
Master of Water Resource Management
Master of Water Science and Management
Professional Master of Computer Science
Life Sciences and Medicine (6)
Master of Audiology
Master of Counselling
Master of Forestry Science
Master of Health Sciences
Master of Health Sciences Professional Practice
Master of Speech and Language Pathology
Natural Sciences (6)
Master of Antarctic Studies
Master of Disaster Risk and Resilience
Master of Mathematical Sciences
Master of Science
Professional Master of Geospatial Science and Technology
Social Sciences and Management (6)
Master of Criminal Justice
Master of Education
Master of Education (Thesis)
Master of European Union Studies
Master of Hōaka Pounamu | Māori Bilingual and Immersion Teaching and Learning
Master of International Relations and Diplomacy
Master of Laws
Master of Laws (International Law and Politics)
Master of Māori and Indigenous Leadership
Master of Policy and Governance
Master of Social Work
Master of Social Work (Applied)
Master of Spatial Analysis for Public Health
Master of Specialist Teaching
Master of Sport Science
Master of Strategic Communication (1 year)
Master of Strategic Communication (1.5 years)
Master of Systems Change
Master of Te Reo Māori
Master of Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
Master of Teaching and Learning
Full-Time MBA (1)
Master of Business Administration
Arts and Humanities (3)
Doctor of Musical Arts
Doctor of Philosophy
Life Sciences and Medicine (3)
Doctor of Health Sciences
Social Sciences and Management (3)
Doctor of Education (EdD)
University information
General
Bachelor
Master
Tuition fee and scholarships
Domestic Students
International Students
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 #=261 in QS World University Rankings 2025.
QS World University Rankings
QS WUR Ranking By Subject
QS Sustainability Ranking
QS World University Rankings
University of Canterbury | Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha
Videos & media
Videos & media
Campus locations
open the map
FAQs
Living in Christchurch is more affordable than other New Zealand cities, so students have more budget to put towards enjoying all the opportunities the Canterbury region has to offer.
Living costs will depend on factors like your accommodation selection, personal circumstances, and lifestyle. The University of Canterbury recommends budgeting at least NZ$20,000 per year for living expenses.
UC is ranked 2nd in New Zealand for employability outcomes and employer reputation (2025 Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) Rankings).
UC offers Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) opportunities, including work placements and work-related projects, to help students be career-ready upon graduation. International students can apply for a three-year post-study work visa after completing their degree. Starting salaries for UC graduates can widely vary, but typically range from NZ$50,000 to NZ$60,000 per year.
Christchurch is New Zealand’s second major business centre and the national hub for Information and Communications Technology (ICT), known as New Zealand’s digital city. It is a leading centre for innovation, research, and technology, with key sectors including engineering, biotechnology, avionics, electronics, software engineering, agriculture, education, forestry, nutraceuticals, Antarctic research, and tourism. More than half of UC graduates find employment in the Canterbury region after completing studies.
Ranked in the top 100 QS Best Student Cities 2025, Christchurch offers students an exciting, vibrant lifestyle anchored in the beauty and serenity of the surrounding natural environment.
UC has one of the best club cultures of any university in New Zealand, offering a vibrant student experience. From academic and cultural to sport, food, gaming, and more, there are over 150 clubs and societies that you can join or participate in – and if there isn’t already one that covers your interest, it’s easy to start your own! Each club provides a wide variety of opportunities, including volunteering, community projects, internships, road trips, and social activities.
The University of Canterbury Students’ Association (UCSA) also holds a range of free and ticketed events on campus year-round, including concerts, barbeques, and the legendary Tea Party.
UC has an abundance of facilities and services on campus and in the field. From learning spaces and early childhood services to health and recreation, there’s range of facilities to support our student’s academic journey.
UC offers a range of scholarships for international students at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. UC offers over $20 million in scholarships and prizes annually. These include the UC Engineering International Scholarship, UC International First Year Scholarship and academic merit-based Deans Awards, High achievers’ scholarships among others.