New Zealand Universities

Study in New Zealand

Auckland University of Technology (www.aut.ac.nz)

The Auckland University of Technology (AUT) is New Zealand’s newest and fastest growing university.   It traces its roots back to 1895 and for over 100 years was the country’s leading Institute of Technology.   It was given university status by the Government in 2000 in recognition of its national and international stature in creativity, innovation, scholarship, research, and excellence in teaching. 

The University is the national leader in a wide range of programmes and provides an outstanding environment of teaching and learning for its students. 

AUT has established links with industry and the professional community so it stays current with what today’s and tomorrow’s work force needs for our ‘job ready’ graduates. Our mission of fostering excellence, equity, and ethics in learning, teaching, research and scholarship to serve its national and international communities reflects the outward looking vision of an exciting and modern university. 

Auckland University of Technology offers more than 250 undergraduate and postgraduate programs through the faculties of Arts, Business/Computer and Information Sciences,  Health Studies, Science and Engineering.   AUT can take you from pre-degree to PHD.

Foundation Studies and English Language are also available. 

The University provides a wide range of support services for international students including health services and accommodation. 

Auckland University of Technology is committed to internationalisation and welcomes international students. Currently there are over 3000 International students from 65 different countries.

 Lincoln University (www.lincoln.ac.nz)

Lincoln University is one of eight government universities in New Zealand. The University enjoys a rural setting on the Canterbury plains less than half an hour from Christchurch, the biggest city in the South Island of New Zealand. Lincoln University is well placed for access to Christchurch's international airport and to the many popular tourist and recreational attractions of New Zealand.

Lincoln University was established as a School of Agriculture in 1878 and in 1896 offered its first degree. That year it also became the Canterbury Agricultural College, later becoming a college of the University of New Zealand. When the University of New Zealand was dissolved in 1961 the college became Lincoln College, a constituent College of the University of Canterbury. The college was granted autonomous university status in 1990 as part of the major reforms of tertiary education in New Zealand.

Over the past ten years Lincoln University has continued to develop as a nationally and internationally renowned university specialising in commerce and management, primary production, natural resources, science, engineering and social science.

Lincoln University is very proud of its attractive campus, excellent facilities and the wide range of services which have been developed to support the learning and research activities of students and staff. The 58 hectare campus houses modern teaching spaces, an excellent library and campus facilities. On-campus accommodation is home for approximately 650 students during the University year. Campus accommodation options include six halls of residence and student flats.

Massey University (www.massey.ac.nz)

Massey University is one of New Zealand’s leading educational institutions. A state funded university, with a proud 70-year tradition of academic excellence and a strong national and international reputation, Massey University is an important part of New Zealand’s post-high school state education system.

Campuses in Palmerston North, Wellington and Auckland at Albany, cater for some 19,000 local and international students. Further, in excess of 18,000 New Zealand students study by distance education. The five college structure provide a diversity of degrees, diplomas and certificates.

Massey University is a leader in the fields of sciences, design, social sciences, education and business - with the biggest business college in the country. Staff in many areas are internationally renowned and leading edge research is being undertaken on all three campuses.

Massey University --- Te Kunenga ki Purehuroa

A literal translation of the full name is 'the implantation to infinity' or 'from inception to infinity'. The name is based on the view of Massey as a provider of life long learning, able to move beyond traditional structures, and committed to the never-ending expansion of knowledge. It recognises both teaching and research within a framework that is not constrained by conceptual assumptions. Moreover by incorporating the notion of growth and potential for growth, it reflects ongoing academic development of students as well as the study of the familiar, and the exploration of the unknown.

The University of Auckland (www.auckland.ac.nz)

The University of Auckland was established in 1883, and has grown into an international centre of learning and academic excellence. The University is situated in the heart of the cosmopolitan city of Auckland and provides an exciting and stimulating environment for 26,000 students.

The University's comprehensive range of research-based study programmes is internationally recognised, and attracts postgraduate and undergraduate students from all over the world. Graduates of the University of Auckland occupy leading positions in business, law, medicine, politics and the professions within New Zealand and overseas. Currently almost a thousand international students from 60 different countries have chosen to study at Auckland. Their different perspectives and cultures enrich the entire University community.

Teaching and research is conducted in seven Faculties on three campuses. These include Architecture, Property, Planning and Fine Arts, Arts, Business and Economics, Engineering, Law, Medical and Health Sciences, and Science. In addition there are more than 30 interdisciplinary research clusters in the University ranging from small units to large institutes which conduct research in emerging fields that cross knowledge boundaries.

 The University of Waikato (www.waikato.ac.nz)

The University of Waikato is located on 60 hectares of parkland in the city of Hamilton.  Waikato University is widely regarded as a progressive and innovative university, constantly developing programmes to cater to the world’s changing work environment.

The University was established in 1964 and occupies a park like 64-hectare campus in the city of Hamilton. With a population of 120,000, Hamilton is the fourth-largest city in New Zealand. It is close to some of the best adventure sports locations, beautiful coastlines and picturesque parks and is only 90 minutes’ drive from Auckland. Hamilton is built along the riverbanks of the Waikato River, which is one of the longest in the county. In 2001, over 12,000 students were enrolled at the University of Waikato, including 1,200 international students from 50 different countries.

The Universityof Waikato is committed to the success of its international students.  Excellent study facilities are provided with modern lecture theatres and laboratories, a library of almost 1,000,000 volumes and an extensive computer network.  Students enjoy the use of a large indoor recreation centre, sports grounds, sporting and cultural clubs and a swimming pool.  Students also have access to university services such as student health and counselling.

 University of Canterbury (www.canterbury.ac.nz) 

A renowned business school, a world-famous research centre in earthquake engineering, a lab pioneering new ways for people to interact with computers, key strengths in applied mathematics, biological sciences, linguistics, medical physics, a leading law school, the New Zealand School of Forestry – all these and many more are features of the University of Canterbury.   

Located in Christchurch, the South Island of New Zealand, Canterbury is the second oldest university in New Zealand, and has an international reputation for academic excellence in both teaching and research. The University currently has close to 2,000 international students from more than 60 countries enrolled in a wide variety of programmes.  Its first (undergraduate) degrees and higher (postgraduate) programmes are recognised across the world, and aim to foster intellectual independence, critical thinking, and professional excellence in every field. 

The University of Canterbury offers a wide variety of subjects and a flexible degree structure. It offers first (undergraduate) and postgraduate degrees in Arts, Commerce, Education, Engineering, Fine Arts, Forestry, Law, Music and Science.  At the University of Canterbury, research and teaching are closely related, and is encouraged at the postgraduate level.  All staff are expected to be involved in research and publishing in their specialist area.  As a result even undergraduate students can expect to be taught by lecturers who are at the cutting edge of knowledge.  

Christchurch is the largest city in New Zealand’s South Island.  Christchurch’s central location on the east coast of the South Island makes the city the hub of the island’s activities.  Known as the Garden City, Christchurch has excellent beaches, parks, reserves and golf courses, and is close to scenic and recreational resources - there are ski-fields within an hour and a half's drive.

 University of Otago (www.otago.ac.nz)

As New Zealand's first university, founded in 1869, Otago has earned an international reputation for the quality of its research and teaching.

In 2003 Otago will have over 13,000 students enrolled and has a teaching facility in each of the four main cities of New Zealand - Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Dunedin. The academic and administrative centre of the University continues to be located in Dunedin, where the majority of students live and work.

The Christchurch and Wellington Schools of Medicine & Health Sciences are both key elements of the University of Otago's Health Sciences activities, providing clinical teaching for undergraduate medical students as well as conducting thriving research and postgraduate teaching programmes.

The University's facilities in central Auckland include an executive MBA programme and a range of other executive education courses as well as a Foundation Studies Year.

Staff are Otago's greatest asset, and the University's policy is to recruit academics and administrators of the highest international calibre. Otago has developed a strong focus on quality advancement and on strategies and processes that produce constant improvement.

One of the pillars on which the University's international reputation is built is the quality of its leading-edge research in many fields. Teaching at Otago is closely related to scholarly research, with the result that most teaching is undertaken by academics who are at the forefront of relevant knowledge.

Otago's reputation also rests on the quality of its graduates. Employers and other key stakeholders confirm that our graduates are sought after and appreciated. There are over 50,000 Otago graduates living in all corners of the world, many occupying influential positions in industry, government and their communities.

 Victoria University of Wellington (www.vuw.ac.nz)

Capital City University:

Situated in Wellington's beautiful natural harbour, Victoria offers unique opportunities to live and study in New Zealand's cultural, political and intellectual capital.

With a student population of over 17,000 and representatives from 75 different countries, Victoria focuses on high quality teaching and research that is fundamental to a proud academic tradition lasting more than 100 years. Students at Victoria also have the benefit of a number of unique relationships within government, industry and the Arts. Victoria University is an integral part of New Zealand's capital city and a world leading academic institution.

Victoria offers more than 100 undergraduate degrees and over 220 post graduate degrees and diplomas. Academic strengths include: Law, Music, Politics, Management Studies, Public Policy, Economics, Architecture and Design, Earth Sciences, Chemistry, Mathematics, Psychology, Liberal Arts, Social Science, Linguistics and Computer Science.

Outside study, you'll find Wellington a compact, dynamic and fun city with all the trappings of a thriving metropolis but all the comforts of a close community- world-class facilities, inspired arts and culture, fine dining, a bejewelled harbour, plentiful jobs and an expanding economy. Situated at the southern tip of New Zealand's North Island, Wellington is also the perfect staging point for students wanting to travel and enjoy the whole of New Zealand.

 Waikato Institute of Technology (www.wintec.ac.nz)

Wintec is a New Zealand Government-funded tertiary institution located in Hamilton, in the heart of the North Island of New Zealand.

As one of the largest polytechnics in New Zealand with over 14,000 full-time and part-time students, Waikato Institute of Technology is focused on providing international students with the necessary support for a positive study experience.

Waikato Institute of Technology offers a range of educational programmes with degree, diploma and certificate level qualifications and provides practical employment-related education and training.

 Whitireia Community Polytechnic (www.whitireia.ac.nz)

Whitireia Community Polytechnic is a government-funded tertiary institution. Established in 1986, it is known for producing work-ready graduates in New Zealand and overseas.

The main campus is in Porirua, sitting at the edge of the scenic Porirua harbour. The campus is 20km north of Wellington City. It is close to beaches where swimming, surfing and boating are popular recreational activities. It has easy access to banks, shopping complexes, art gallery, gymnasiums, restaurants and public transport.

The two satellite campuses are Kapiti and Wellington City. The Kapiti Campus is situated in a farm-like environment, surrounded by rolling hills. It is in the heart of the fastest growing part of the Wellington region. The Wellington City Campus is a short distance from Parliament, and it caters for professionals looking at re-training for career advancement.

Over 90 full-time programmes of study are available. Many programmes can be taken part-time and Whitireia also has short courses of community interest.

The programmes meet a wide range of educational and training needs with an emphasis on producing work-ready graduates. Most qualifications range from Certificate level to National Diploma. The School of Computing offers a three-year Bachelor degree in Information Technology, and the School of Nursing and Health Studies offers a Bachelor of Nursing and several post-graduate programmes.

Wellington Institute of Technology (www.weltec.ac.nz)

WelTec is the largest applied tertiary provider in the Wellington region with a total of 3,500 equivalent full time students. The success of the organisation is based upon close working relationships with employers and the community to deliver programmes that provide a foundation for a growing and successful economy. Our vision is to be: “The first choice of customers for applied learning and development through innovation and partnership”.

Wide Range of Excellent Qualifications

Our nationally and internationally recognised qualifications provide graduates with the skills required across a wide range of employment areas including: Engineering, IT, Hospitality, Media Art and Design, Construction, Health and Human Sciences, Business and Communication, and Counselling. WelTec also provides qualified and experienced tutors and lecturers who are well known for their passion for teaching and helping students to achieve.

Delivering Knowledge and Skills for Real Careers

At Wellington Institute of Technology, you will find practical and relevant qualifications, friendly and approachable tutors and lecturers, and a supportive learning environment. It’s a place where you get “real knowledge and skills today for real careers tomorrow”. In 2001, student satisfaction with course delivery was an outstanding 95%.

WelTec’s main campus is in Petone, located close to the beachfront, boutiques and trendy cafes, and only ten minutes drive from central Wellington. Bordering the Council playing fields are plenty of green spaces for students to spread out and relax. WelTec also has campuses in Wellington, Auckland and Christchurch.

Manukau Institue of Technology (www.mit.ac.nz)

MIT, a government tertiary institution, is situated just 15 kilometres south of the heart of Auckland in the City of Manukau. The location combines the best features of city life, easy access to and from central, eastern and southern suburbs of Auckland, as well as proximity to so many surrounding attractions.

The main campus area covers over 12 hectares of attractive landscape gardens to create a peaceful environment in which to study. MIT also operates the New Zealand Maritime School from a centra Auckland location. MIT has impressive facilities. Learning technology is up-to-the-minute and purpose built buildings provide just the right environment for each area of study.

MIT is a busy place with over 22,000 full and part-time students. But while it is busy it is also a warm, friendly and most importantly an effective place to learn. This is why over 1,500 international students from over 35 countries make MIT their choice.

Manukau Institute of Technology ‘s range of degree, diploma, certificate and short course programmes is among the best in New Zealand. Our programmes reflect what the market really needs. MIT has developed strong links with business and industry to provide qualifications that employers value.

Christchurch Polytechnic Institute of Technology (www.cpit.ac.nz)

With over 2,000 staff and nearly 100 years’ experience, CPIT is one of New Zealand’s largest tertiary institutions. We are a government guaranteed institution with a reputation for providing high quality degree, diploma, certificate and English programmes. Our programmes are all NZQA quality assured and our degrees are equal status to university degrees. Our students graduate with the work ready professional skills that lead to employment. You can trust CPIT to offer you a successful learning experience; 25,000 students each year can’t be wrong!

CPIT has over 1,500 modern personal computers with 24 hour access for students including internet. The new and very modern campus centre offers cafes, a recreation centre, modern library, healthcare centre, and other facilities.

Academic Colleges Group (www.acg.ac.nz)

 ACG is a leading provider of internationally recognised quality programmes. Their schools, colleges and specialist education centres offer the best educational pathways in preparation for university.

ACG English is part of the Academic Colleges Group. ACG English courses are offered at two locations. The main campus is located in the centre of Auckland City. The central location means easy access to public transport, shopping and entertainment venues. A second campus is situated at ACG Strathallan on the beautiful Hingaia Peninsula, 30 minutes south of Auckland City.

The campuses have excellent facilities including modern classrooms, computer rooms, library and Student Information Centre.

AIS St Helens (www.ais.ac.nz)

Auckland Institute of Studies at St Helens (AIS St Helens) is New Zealand's largest and most international independent degree provider, with a roll of 1600 students, of whom around 80% are international students from over 30 different countries.

In 1999 a joint venture was established with the University of Otago to offer the Foundation Year for international students moving into Commerce and Arts degrees. The restructuring of academic operations into the School of Foundation Studies for pre-degree qualifications, and the School of International Studies for undergraduate qualifications, occurred in 1999. The new MBA in International Business was also launched in 1999, followed shortly after by the popular Certificate in Teaching English as a Foreign Language (CertTEFL).

In 2000 AIS St Helens celebrated its 10th anniversary, and commenced planning to open a further two campuses in Auckland.

A nearby property was purchased in 2001 and was completely redeveloped and refurbished, reopening as the Asquith Campus in October 2002. The modern facility includes advanced computer laboratories, a conference centre, lecture theatres, a gymnasium and sports arena. The Asquith Campus currently hosts the University of Otago Foundation Year (UOFY), the Travel and Tourism programmes and the Information Technology programmes.

Earlier in 2001 the City Campus, located in the former Reserve Bank Building on Customs Street in the heart of Auckland City, was opened to accommodate the expanding English Language Centre. The City Campus underwent further refurbishment in 2003.

AIS St Helens over recent years has formed valuable partnerships with prestigious institutions in other countries. Increasingly students will be able to take a planned programme of studies leading to a wider range of credentials as well as experiencing different cultures and educational settings.

As Auckland Institute of Studies develops, its own range of NZQA approved and accredited programmes is expanding further in fields such as Information Technology and Computing, and Tourism Management.   

New Zealand School of Travel & Tourism (www.nzstt.com)

NZSTT is widely recognized as premier training facility for Travel, Tourism and Business studies in New Zealand

Established in 1997, with campuses in Auckland and Christchurch, it offers unparalleled academic and technical excellence in a friendly and professional learning environment. The NZSTT Group has also established a Global Campus offering distance-learning programmes offering generic distance learning programmes in computing, management and business. We also offer NZQA accredited courses. Prior to entry, the applicant is invited to gauge their readiness to participate in Distance Learning by using an automatic Self-assessment Test.

At NZSTT all the tutors are industry experienced, with a real-world focus. This ensures that graduates are more readily, more immediately employable

NZSTT will always maintain a total commitment to its Quality Management Systems. It is an accredited Private Training Establishment and conforms to the standards and guidelines set out by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority [NZQA]. This government body approves audits and establishes criteria under the National Qualifications Framework and ensures that qualifications are recognised internationally. An Advisory Board represented by leaders from all sectors of the travel and tourism industry to advise on course content and structure reinforces the total commitment to quality. This ensures that all training is totally current and appropriate

Pacific International Hotel Management School (www.pihms.ac.nz)

PIHMS is located in the magnificent Taranaki region. Nestled between the majestic Mount Taranaki and the scenic west coast, the school itself is located far enough away from the city to provide a peaceful environment without distraction. At the same time it is central enough for students to be able to enjoy the facilities New Plymouth City has to offer. Here, students know how to combine quality learning with quality lifestyle. When it's time to take a break from studying, students can ski the slopes, tackle some of the best surf in the country and enjoy an unspoiled environment.

The best managers are usually those who understand all of the processes involved in the operation of their industry. At the PIHMS, students have the opportunity to perform all the roles crucial to the successful operation of a hotel. This well balanced education, combines Practical Skills, Theoretical Knowledge and Personal Development, meeting both NZ and international Industry standards. It also produces some of today's finest hotel managers, worldwide.

From day one, students live and study in a hotel atmosphere. The campus itself is run by the students as a fully operational hotel. During the live-in semesters, students take on a number of responsibilities a hotel manager faces. From guest relations, front office management, food and beverage to housekeeping and property management, students gain experience in all aspects of hotel management.

Aspect International Language Academies (www.aspectworld.com)

 Aspect has over 30 years of experience in the field of language study abroad and their tried and trusted teaching methods guarantee your success. Aspect is accredited by government in New Zealand, which ensures that their schools maintain the highest standards of teaching, educational facilities and student welfare.

Aspect has two schools in New Zealand. Their Auckland school is located in one of the city’s most popular areas, between the Domain, a beautiful public park, and the lively Newmarket district, with its chic shops and cafes. The second school, established in 1979, is the oldest language school in Christchurch. It is a well-known Cambridge University Examination and teacher training centre and enjoys a reputation for quality teaching and student care. Both campuses have excellent facilities including modern classrooms, computer rooms, library and Student Information Centre.

  Dominion English Schools (www.dominion.school.nz)

 Dominion English Schools provides students with English tuition equal to the best in the world, coupled with an extensive activity programme and friendly, "at home", atmosphere.

Dominion was established in 1969 and is a New Zealand owned company. Dominion Schools are located in two beautifully appointed, Downtown premises near shopping centres, restaurants and transport in both Auckland and Christchurch.

Students can transfer between schools. There is a maximum of 150 students in each school: large enough to have 8 levels of English.