University of Canterbury

The University of Canterbury (UC), located in Christchurch, New Zealand, is a public research university established in 1873. As New Zealand's second-oldest university, it has a long-standing reputation for academic excellence and a welcoming environment for international students. UC offers a diverse range of over 150 programs across various disciplines, attracting students from nearly 100 countries.

Academics

UC offers a wealth of academic study options across its faculties of Arts, Business, Education, Engineering, Health, Law, and Science. The university is particularly renowned for its engineering and science programs, with its Civil Engineering course ranking 9th globally in 2021. UC emphasizes hands-on experience, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for their chosen careers. The university also boasts a 5-star QS rating for research and teaching, with a student-reported teaching quality score of 91%.

International Students

The University of Canterbury provides extensive support services for its international student community. This includes dedicated Student Care Advisors, language support, and assistance with cultural integration. An International Student Care Handbook is available, covering a wide range of topics from setting up bank accounts to healthcare and transport. International students are eligible to apply for a three-year post-study work visa after completing their degree, offering a pathway to gaining work experience in New Zealand.

Campus & Location

Situated on 76 hectares in the leafy Christchurch suburb of Ilam, the UC campus offers a beautiful and vibrant learning environment. Christchurch, the largest city in the South Island, is known for its culture, adventure, and welcoming community, with the Avon River winding through its center. The campus features four libraries, 24-hour access computer suites, lecture theatres, laboratories, studios, and a fitness facility called the RecCentre. The campus is easy to navigate by foot, bicycle, or skateboard, with secure bike stands, lockers, and showers available.

Career Outcomes

The University of Canterbury boasts impressive career outcomes, with a 95% placement rate for its graduates, meaning 95 out of every 100 students secure employment. UC graduates are highly sought after by top companies such as EY, GHD, AECOM, and Aurecon. The university's Career Development Centre offers comprehensive assistance, including one-on-one counseling, workshops on LinkedIn optimization and networking, and access to an exclusive online job board. UC also has a strong startup culture, fostered by its Centre for Entrepreneurship (UCE), which provides resources, mentoring, and incubation for student business ideas.