University of Canterbury | Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha Logo University of Canterbury | Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha

Address: Private Bag 4800, Christchurch 8140, New Zealand
Phone: +64 3 369 3999
Email: info@canterbury.ac.nz
Website: www.canterbury.ac.nz


The University of Canterbury (Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha) has specific English language requirements for international students whose first language is not English. These requirements ensure that students have the necessary language proficiency to succeed in their academic studies. Below are the key English language requirements for undergraduate and postgraduate programs:

English Language Requirements

1. IELTS (International English Language Testing System)

  • Undergraduate Programs:
    • Overall score of 6.0 with no band score lower than 5.5.
  • Postgraduate Programs:
    • Overall score of 6.5 with no band score lower than 6.0.

2. TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)

  • Undergraduate Programs:
    • Paper-based: Total score of 550 with a minimum writing score of 4.5.
    • Internet-based (iBT): Total score of 80 with a minimum writing score of 20.
  • Postgraduate Programs:
    • Paper-based: Total score of 577 with a minimum writing score of 4.5.
    • Internet-based (iBT): Total score of 90 with a minimum writing score of 21.

3. PTE (Pearson Test of English) Academic

  • Undergraduate Programs:
    • Overall score of 50 with no communicative skills score below 42.
  • Postgraduate Programs:
    • Overall score of 58 with no communicative skills score below 50.

4. Cambridge English Qualifications

  • C1 Advanced (formerly CAE):
    • Undergraduate: Overall score of 169 with no band score lower than 162.
    • Postgraduate: Overall score of 176 with no band score lower than 169.
  • C2 Proficiency (formerly CPE): Accepted with equivalent scores.

Exemptions from English Language Testing

Students may be exempt from providing English language test scores if they have completed:

  • A secondary school qualification or higher in an English-speaking country.
  • A recognized qualification that was taught in English.

English Language Pathway Programs

If students do not meet the English language requirements, they may enroll in English language pathway programs offered by the university. These programs are designed to improve students' English proficiency before they begin their degree studies.

The University of Canterbury (Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha) offers a wide range of course specialties across various disciplines. Here are some key areas in which the university is particularly well-regarded:

1. Engineering

  • Specialties: Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, Chemical, Computer, and Software Engineering.
  • Why Notable: The College of Engineering is known for its strong emphasis on practical experience and research, with a focus on innovation and sustainability.

2. Science

  • Specialties: Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Environmental Science, Earth Sciences, and Mathematics.
  • Why Notable: The university is recognized for its research contributions in areas like climate change, renewable energy, and biodiversity.

3. Arts and Humanities

  • Specialties: English, History, Philosophy, Media and Communication, and Cultural Studies.
  • Why Notable: The College of Arts offers interdisciplinary programs that encourage critical thinking and creativity, fostering a rich cultural environment.

4. Social Sciences

  • Specialties: Psychology, Sociology, Education, and Political Science.
  • Why Notable: The university is known for its research in social issues, mental health, and educational practices, providing valuable insights for policy and practice.

5. Business and Law

  • Specialties: Management, Marketing, Accounting, Finance, and Business Analytics.
  • Why Notable: The UC Business School offers a comprehensive education with a strong focus on practical applications and industry connections. The Faculty of Law is also well-regarded, especially for its focus on social justice and indigenous rights.

6. Education

  • Specialties: Teacher Education, Educational Leadership, and Special Education.
  • Why Notable: The university is recognized for its commitment to high-quality teacher training and research in education.

7. Health Sciences

  • Specialties: Public Health, Sports Science, and Health Promotion.
  • Why Notable: The university focuses on addressing health issues through research and community engagement, promoting wellness and public health initiatives.

8. Music and Performing Arts

  • Specialties: Performance, Composition, Music Education, and Musicology.
  • Why Notable: The university has a vibrant music program, offering students opportunities to engage in performance and creative endeavors.

9. Environmental Studies

  • Specialties: Environmental Science, Sustainability, and Conservation.
  • Why Notable: The university places a strong emphasis on environmental research and sustainability practices, addressing pressing global issues.

10. Information Technology

  • Specialties: Computer Science, Data Science, Cybersecurity, and Software Development.
  • Why Notable: The IT programs are designed to meet the demands of the tech industry, with a focus on innovation and practical skills.

The University of Canterbury (Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha) boasts several esteemed professors who are recognized for their contributions to research, teaching, and their respective fields. Here are some of the top professors at the university:

1. Professor Paul Spoonley

  • Field: Sociology and Social Policy
  • Position: Distinguished Professor
  • Why Notable: An expert in sociology, particularly concerning migration, social cohesion, and ethnic diversity. His research has significantly influenced social policy in New Zealand.

2. Professor Jennifer M. McIntosh

  • Field: Psychology
  • Position: Professor of Psychology
  • Why Notable: Known for her research in child development, particularly in the context of divorce and parental separation. She has made significant contributions to understanding children's psychological well-being in family transitions.

3. Professor Michael Jackson

  • Field: Philosophy
  • Position: Professor of Philosophy
  • Why Notable: Recognized for his work in philosophical ethics, with a focus on issues related to social justice and moral philosophy. He is actively involved in community discussions and policy development.

4. Professor Rachael P. McCarthy

  • Field: Environmental Science
  • Position: Professor of Environmental Science
  • Why Notable: An expert in environmental chemistry and toxicology, her research focuses on the impacts of pollutants on ecosystems and human health.

5. Professor John McLennan

  • Field: Engineering
  • Position: Professor of Civil Engineering
  • Why Notable: Known for his work in structural engineering and earthquake engineering, contributing significantly to the resilience of infrastructure in seismic regions.

6. Professor Fiona McMillan

  • Field: Political Science
  • Position: Professor of Political Science
  • Why Notable: Her research focuses on governance, public policy, and the role of institutions in political processes, contributing to both academic knowledge and practical applications in policy-making.

7. Professor Ian G. Munro

  • Field: Computer Science
  • Position: Professor of Computer Science
  • Why Notable: A leader in software engineering and data science, known for his contributions to programming languages and software development methodologies.

8. Professor Anne-Marie F. Smith

  • Field: Education
  • Position: Professor of Education
  • Why Notable: Recognized for her research in teacher education and curriculum development, focusing on innovative teaching practices and educational equity.

9. Professor Christine T. Jack

  • Field: Mathematics
  • Position: Professor of Mathematics
  • Why Notable: Known for her research in applied mathematics and its applications in engineering and physical sciences.

10. Professor Mark E. Johnson

  • Field: Neuroscience
  • Position: Professor of Psychology
  • Why Notable: An expert in cognitive neuroscience, his research focuses on understanding brain mechanisms involved in memory and learning processes.

The University of Canterbury (Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha) has a notable connection to several distinguished individuals, including Nobel laureates. Here are some key points regarding the university's association with Nobel Prize winners:

Nobel Laureates Associated with the University of Canterbury

  1. Sir Ernest Rutherford

    • Nobel Prize: Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1908.
    • Contribution: Recognized as the father of nuclear physics, he is known for his pioneering work in the study of atomic structure and radioactivity.
    • Background: Although he conducted most of his groundbreaking work overseas, Rutherford was born in New Zealand and attended Canterbury College (now the University of Canterbury) before furthering his studies in the UK.

  2. Professor Sir Peter Gluckman

    • Nobel Prize: While not a Nobel laureate himself, he was a key contributor to significant research in developmental biology and health sciences.
    • Contribution: He served as Chief Science Advisor to the Prime Minister of New Zealand and is recognized for his work in the fields of child health and development, particularly related to the concept of the "thrifty phenotype."

  3. Professor Paul Callaghan

    • Not a Nobel Prize Winner: While Paul Callaghan was a highly respected physicist known for his work in magnetic resonance and material science, he did not win a Nobel Prize.
    • Recognition: He received numerous awards for his contributions to science and education, including being named a Fellow of the Royal Society of New Zealand.

Contributions to Research and Knowledge

While the University of Canterbury may not have a large number of Nobel laureates directly affiliated with it, the institution has a strong tradition of research excellence and innovation, particularly in the sciences and engineering. The university promotes interdisciplinary research that addresses critical global issues, which aligns with the spirit of inquiry and discovery often associated with Nobel Prize-winning work.

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.

The University of Canterbury (Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha) is renowned for several reasons that contribute to its reputation as one of New Zealand’s leading educational institutions. Here are some key factors highlighting why the university is famous:

1. Strong Academic Reputation

  • The University of Canterbury is consistently ranked among the top universities in New Zealand and is recognized internationally for its academic programs, particularly in engineering, science, and the humanities.

2. Research Excellence

  • The university is known for its research contributions, particularly in areas such as engineering, environmental science, and social sciences. It has been involved in significant research initiatives that address local and global challenges.
  • The university is home to several research institutes and centers, such as the Macmillan Brown Centre for Pacific Studies and the Christchurch Heart Institute, which focus on various disciplines and promote innovative research.

3. Prestigious Engineering Program

  • The College of Engineering is particularly well-regarded and has a strong emphasis on practical experience, research, and innovation. The engineering programs consistently rank highly in both national and international assessments.
  • The university has strong industry connections, providing students with valuable internship opportunities and real-world experiences.

4. Location in Christchurch

  • Situated in Christchurch, the largest city in the South Island, the university benefits from its urban setting, which offers students access to various cultural, economic, and recreational opportunities.
  • The city has undergone significant rebuilding and innovation following the 2011 earthquake, and the university has been a key player in contributing to the city's revitalization efforts.

5. Commitment to Māori and Indigenous Education

  • The University of Canterbury has a strong commitment to Māori and indigenous education, reflecting New Zealand’s cultural heritage. The university promotes research and programs that support Māori development and understanding of indigenous rights.

6. Diverse Course Offerings

  • With a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, the university attracts a diverse student body, including international students from many countries.
  • The interdisciplinary approach fosters collaboration between faculties and encourages innovative thinking.

7. Successful Alumni

  • The university has produced many successful alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields, including politics, science, engineering, and the arts. Notable alumni include former Prime Minister Helen Clark, scientist Sir Ian Athfield, and poet Bill Manhire.

8. Support for Student Success

  • The university provides extensive support services for students, including academic advising, mental health services, and career counseling, contributing to a high level of student satisfaction and success.
  • Various clubs, societies, and extracurricular activities foster a vibrant campus life and promote personal development.

9. Innovative Teaching Practices

  • The university emphasizes innovative and student-centered teaching methods, integrating technology into the learning environment and promoting critical thinking and creativity.

10. Global Engagement and Partnerships

  • The University of Canterbury has established numerous international partnerships and collaborations, facilitating exchange programs, joint research initiatives, and global networking opportunities for students and faculty.