Ara Institute of Canterbury

Ara Institute of Canterbury is a leading government-funded tertiary institution in Christchurch, New Zealand, offering a wide array of vocational and applied programs. Formed in 2016 from the merger of Christchurch Polytechnic Institute of Technology (CPIT) and Aoraki Polytechnic, Ara boasts over a century of educational experience. It is dedicated to providing industry-relevant education that equips students with practical skills for successful careers.

Academics

Ara Institute of Canterbury provides a diverse range of programs from certificates to postgraduate qualifications across various faculties. Key faculties include Business and Information Technology, Creative Arts, Engineering and Architectural Studies, Health and Wellbeing, Hospitality and Culinary Arts, and Primary Industries. The institution is known for its practical, hands-on teaching approach, integrating work-integrated learning, internships, and industry-based projects into most programs. Notable programs include engineering, nursing, applied health, business, and creative industries, with a strong emphasis on preparing students for in-demand sectors. Ara also focuses on multidisciplinary strengths, such as in its NDL lab where civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering students collaborate on projects.

International Students

Ara Institute of Canterbury welcomes a diverse international student body, with over 1,700 international students from more than 50 nationalities. The International Office provides comprehensive support services, including orientation programs, academic assistance, career advice, and help with accommodation. All programs are offered in English, ensuring a world-class education for international students. Ara fosters cultural integration through various clubs, events, and student societies, and celebrates diversity within its community.

Campus & Location

Ara's largest campus is situated in central Christchurch, the biggest city in New Zealand's South Island. Christchurch offers a vibrant city life with a blend of English heritage and Māori influence, featuring numerous art galleries, museums, a thriving restaurant scene, and a large student population. The City campus provides a wide range of facilities including a gym, recreation center, health center, library, and on-site cafes. Transportation to and from the campus is convenient, with Christchurch's Metro bus system offering services that pass the campuses, and a Tertiary Student Metrocard providing discounted fares for students. The campus is also within walking distance of attractions like Hagley Park, the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, and the Christchurch Art Gallery.

Career Outcomes

Ara Institute of Canterbury boasts strong employment rates, with a 95% employment rate within six months of graduation for its students. The institution maintains close industry connections and partnerships with companies, ensuring that programs align with current workforce needs and offering extensive work placement opportunities. Ara's dedicated career services team assists students with job searches, CV writing, interview preparation, and career advice. Notable employment success has been observed in nursing, with 98.5% of registered nursing graduates seeking work achieving employment. Christchurch itself has a growing IT sector and a strong manufacturing industry, offering various employment opportunities. The Ara Innovation Hub also supports entrepreneurship, providing incubators and funding for startups.