The University of Waikato

The University of Waikato is a comprehensive university located in Hamilton, New Zealand. Established in 1964, it has grown into a globally recognized institution known for its research excellence, innovative teaching, and strong connections with industry and community. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including business, education, engineering, law, science, and the arts.

With a commitment to academic excellence, the University of Waikato is ranked among the top universities in the world. It is particularly known for its strengths in environmental sciences, computer science, and management studies. The university places a strong emphasis on research, with many of its faculty members engaged in cutting-edge projects that address global challenges.

The main campus in Hamilton provides a vibrant and supportive learning environment, featuring modern facilities, state-of-the-art laboratories, and extensive library resources. The university also has a campus in Tauranga, expanding its reach and accessibility to students in the Bay of Plenty region.

Internationalization is a key focus for the University of Waikato, with a diverse student body representing over 80 countries. The university has strong partnerships with institutions worldwide, offering exchange programs and collaborative research opportunities.

Student life at the University of Waikato is dynamic, with numerous clubs, cultural events, and sports activities available. The university is home to the Gallagher Academy of Performing Arts, which hosts various performances and events throughout the year. Additionally, the Waikato Students’ Union plays an active role in supporting student interests and organizing social activities.

The university maintains strong ties with industry, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for the workforce. Many programs include internships, work placements, and industry projects, providing students with practical experience and networking opportunities.

With a strong reputation for academic excellence, research innovation, and student support, the University of Waikato continues to be a leading institution in New Zealand and beyond.

• Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences

  The Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences (FASS) encourages our students to understand that their choice of study is of value to themselves and society; that they will also gain worthwhile skills that can be utilised in the workplace; and that studying for the pleasure of learning and for academic stimulation is as important as studying for vocational purposes.

• Faculty of Computing and Mathematical Sciences

  At the Faculty of Computing and Mathematical Sciences we strive to challenge our students and are proud to see them emerge with qualifications that assist them along the path they have planned for their future.

  Our aim is to prepare you for a wide variety of careers, equipping you with the skills for academic and professional success. We offer three and four-year degreeundergraduate programmes that are professionally oriented, based on a strong foundation in the computing and mathematical sciences. Most importantly, our papersand qualifications are relevant and up-to-date in what is a rapidly changing technological and social environment.

  World-class researchers and facilities underpin unique collaborations within our Faculty, across campus, and with the wider world. These collaborations bring together creative minds, unique technologies, and degree structures tailored to your interests and skills.

  A qualification from the University of Waikato in computer science, mathematics, statistics, software engineeringor computer graphic design can open many doors. Both in New Zealand and overseas, our former students are using their training to assume leadership roles in educational institutions and industry.

• Faculty of Education

  Research that makes a difference, quality programmes and inspiring leadership are what makes us distinctive. Our Faculty of Education rates number one for educational research in the country. Our researchers contribute to areas such as teacher education, special education, educational leadership, counsellor education, Māori education and sport and leisure studies.

  Our flexible on-campus and online programmes are based on current theories in education and offer opportunities for real-life practical experiences. Our sought-after graduates establish successful careers in New Zealand and overseas. Waikato Faculty of Education offers a supportive and friendly environment and provides graduates with an education that is first-rate.

   

• Te Piringa - Faculty of Law

  At Waikato we are absolutely committed to providing you with the highest quality and innovative student-focused legal education. We achieve this through our founding goals of professionalism, biculturalism and the study of law in context, linked with our practical skills programme, our focus on smallgroup teaching at first year level, excellent information technology (IT) resources and the integration of IT and topical issues into the law curriculum. As a result, our graduates are highly regarded for being innovative, multi-skilled, adaptable and committed to excellence.

  Our Faculty is especially committed to fostering Māori, Pacific Island and indigenous issues within the context of the Treaty of Waitangi partnership principle. We are fortunate to possess particular strength in this area as well as in environmental and resource law, human rights, criminal justice, dispute resolution, comparative law and public policy generally. Through our many linkages with foreign law schools we can offer our students possibilities to pursue part of their legal education abroad. Our student body is quite diverse and have opportunities to pursue their interests through competitive moots, internships and student associations. Our staff consists of distinguished scholars from many nations, and we benefit from frequent guest speakers from overseas along with across the country to enrich your learning experience. Waikato is thus a truly exciting place to study law as it exists today along with how it is changing to meet the needs of New Zealand in an increasingly global society.

• School of Māori and Pacific Development

  Puawānanga is the clematis. Before it can flower, it shoots its tendrils from the forest floor through the bush canopy to reach the light above the trees. Puawānanga encapsulates human endeavours to strive for knowledge and education, a journey through life. Each level of the forest climbed represents a new horizon. Beyond the forest is a bigger world.

  The flower at the heart of this design symbolises the staff and students of Te Pua Wānanga ki te Ao. The people are the stylised petals working together for the mutual benefit of the puawānanga. The tāniko borders are the stamen, which hold the promise for the future generations and new developments.

  The green circle represents the bush, which supports, but through which the vine must struggle to flower in the light. So appropriately the circle is also the all-encompassing, Te Ao.

  The spiral figures behind are Ranginui and Papatūānuku representing the civilization from which Māori have evolved their intellectual and educational philosophies and knowledge.

  The tokotoko represents the culture that binds us as a people. By knowing who we are and where we have come from, we can acquire new knowledge with confidence to add to the accumulated wisdom of the people since time immemorial.

  This new wisdom is represented by the koru spiralling out in the inner core.

• Faculty of Science and Engineering

  Waikato is home to some of the most well-respected researchers in the science and engineering communities. Our researchers - your lecturers - are amongst the best in the country. Teaching and research in the Faculty is supported by first-class facilities and some of the world's most advanced laboratory equipment - like the Bruker Centre of Mass Spectrometry Excellence for investigating molecular structure, the largest collection of instruments of its type in New Zealand.

• Waikato Management School

  Waikato Management School is the business school of choice, respected nationally and internationally for our influential practice, relevant research, quality teaching and commitment to excellence.

  At the heart of our business is transformation - our purpose is to transform minds, careers and organisations. Our international connections mean our teaching and research is always at the cutting edge of best practice and our engagement with our commerical and professional stakeholders means our students are learning practical knowledge and skills.

  Our students go on to become leaders in the public and private sectors, graduating with essential business skills and knowledge. They have the ability to think critically and carefully, and to act responsibly and ethically.

  The School is a member of an elite group of business schools that have earned Triple Crown status - an international acknowledgement of excellence in business education. We're accredited by the world's oldest assessor of business education, AACSB International (the US-based Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business), EQUIS (European Quality Improvement System), and AMBA (The Association of MBAs). Only 1% of the world's 14,000 business schools have met the strict standards of all three accreditation bodies.

• Waikato Pathways College

  The College is part of the University’s Faculty of Education and provides bridging, foundation, English language and university preparation programmes which enable entry into the University and into further studies.  Students with English as an additional language can choose from our academic or general English language programmes, and we also offer a range of tailor-made programmes to suit international professional, academic and vocational groups. 

The University of Waikato is a comprehensive university located in Hamilton, New Zealand. It was officially established in 1964, following a strong push from the local community and educational leaders who recognized the need for a higher education institution in the Waikato region. The university was founded with the goal of providing accessible and high-quality education to students from diverse backgrounds.

The origins of the University of Waikato can be traced back to the 1950s when discussions about the need for a university in the region began. At that time, students from Waikato had to travel to Auckland or other cities to pursue higher education. The demand for a local university grew, and in 1960, the New Zealand government approved the establishment of a new institution. Initially, the university operated as a branch of the University of Auckland, but in 1964, it became an independent university with its own charter.

From its early years, the University of Waikato focused on innovation and inclusivity. It was one of the first universities in New Zealand to actively engage with Māori communities and incorporate Māori studies into its curriculum. This commitment to biculturalism remains a defining characteristic of the university today. The university has strong ties with local iwi (tribes), particularly Tainui, and continues to promote Māori culture, language, and research.

Over the decades, the University of Waikato has expanded significantly. It now offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including business, science, engineering, education, law, and the arts. The university is also known for its research excellence, particularly in areas such as environmental science, cybersecurity, and indigenous studies.

In addition to its main campus in Hamilton, the university has a presence in Tauranga, where it has developed a modern campus to serve students in the Bay of Plenty region. This expansion reflects the university’s commitment to providing education and research opportunities to a broader population.

Today, the University of Waikato is recognized as a leading institution in New Zealand and internationally. It continues to uphold its founding principles of accessibility, innovation, and engagement with the community. With a diverse student body and a strong emphasis on research and teaching excellence, the university plays a vital role in shaping the future of education and knowledge in New Zealand.

The University of Waikato offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs for domestic and international students. Admission requirements vary depending on the level of study and the applicant's background.

For undergraduate programs, domestic students typically need to meet the University Entrance (UE) requirements, which include NCEA Level 3 with approved subjects, literacy, and numeracy standards. International students must have an equivalent qualification, such as an International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma or A-levels. Additionally, English language proficiency is required, with accepted tests including IELTS (minimum 6.0 overall with no band lower than 5.5) or TOEFL (minimum 80 iBT). Some programs may have additional requirements, such as portfolios or interviews.

For postgraduate programs, applicants must hold a relevant bachelor's degree with a satisfactory GPA. Some programs may require work experience or specific prerequisite courses. English language requirements for postgraduate study are generally higher, with IELTS requirements typically set at 6.5 overall with no band lower than 6.0.

The application process involves submitting an online application through the university's website, providing academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency, and any additional documents required for specific programs. International students may also need to provide a copy of their passport and evidence of financial support for visa purposes.

Once an application is submitted, the university reviews the documents and may request additional information. If accepted, students receive an offer letter, which they must accept to proceed with enrollment. International students will then need to apply for a student visa.

The University of Waikato also offers pathway programs for students who do not meet direct entry requirements. These include foundation studies and English language courses to help students transition into their chosen degree programs.

For more details, applicants are encouraged to visit the official University of Waikato website or contact the admissions office.

The University of Waikato is a well-recognized institution in New Zealand, accredited by several national and international organizations. It is a public university, established in 1964, and is officially accredited by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA). The university is also a member of Universities New Zealand – Te Pōkai Tara, which represents all eight universities in the country and ensures they meet high academic and research standards.

The University of Waikato holds accreditations from various professional bodies, ensuring that its programs meet industry and global standards. For example, the Waikato Management School is one of the few business schools worldwide to hold the prestigious Triple Crown accreditation. This means it is accredited by the three leading international business education accreditation bodies: the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), the Association of MBAs (AMBA), and the EFMD Quality Improvement System (EQUIS). This recognition places the business school among the top 1% of business schools globally.

In addition to business accreditation, the university’s engineering programs are accredited by Engineering New Zealand, ensuring that graduates meet the professional standards required for engineering practice in New Zealand and internationally. The Faculty of Computing and Mathematical Sciences also holds recognition from the Institute of IT Professionals New Zealand (IITP), which ensures that its computer science and information technology programs align with industry needs.

The University of Waikato is also ranked in global university rankings, further demonstrating its academic credibility. It is regularly listed in the QS World University Rankings and the Times Higher Education (THE) rankings, which assess universities based on research output, teaching quality, and international reputation.

Furthermore, the university collaborates with various international institutions and organizations, ensuring that its degrees are recognized worldwide. This global recognition allows graduates to pursue careers and further studies in different countries without concerns about the validity of their qualifications.

Overall, the University of Waikato’s accreditations and rankings confirm its commitment to high academic standards, research excellence, and industry relevance. These accreditations provide students with confidence in the quality of education they receive and enhance their employability in the global job market.

The University of Waikato offers a vibrant student life with a range of activities, clubs, and support services to enhance the university experience. Students can participate in various cultural, academic, and recreational clubs, which provide opportunities to meet new people and develop new skills. The Waikato Students' Union (WSU) plays a key role in representing student interests and organizing events throughout the year, including social gatherings, workshops, and advocacy initiatives.

The university provides modern facilities, including libraries, study spaces, and recreational areas. The Gallagher Academy of Performing Arts hosts performances and cultural events, while the on-campus gym and sports facilities encourage students to stay active. The university also has a range of dining options, including cafes and food outlets, catering to different tastes and dietary needs.

Student accommodation is available both on and off-campus, offering a supportive environment for students to live and study. The halls of residence provide a sense of community, with organized activities and support services to help students adjust to university life.

Support services at the University of Waikato include academic assistance, career guidance, and mental health resources. The Student Learning team offers workshops and one-on-one support to help students succeed in their studies. The university also provides counseling services and wellbeing initiatives to ensure students have access to the help they need.

International students are welcomed with orientation programs and dedicated support services to help them settle into life in New Zealand. The university promotes diversity and inclusion, creating a welcoming environment for students from different backgrounds.

Overall, student life at the University of Waikato is dynamic and engaging, with numerous opportunities for personal and academic growth. Whether through clubs, events, or support services, students can make the most of their university experience while preparing for their future careers.

The University of Waikato offers a wide range of services and facilities to support students in their academic and personal lives. These services go beyond lectures and seminars, ensuring that students have access to everything they need for a successful university experience.

One of the key facilities available to students is the university library, which provides access to a vast collection of books, journals, and digital resources. The library also offers study spaces, computer labs, and research support services to help students with their academic work. Additionally, students can access online databases and borrow materials to support their studies.

The university also provides comprehensive student support services, including academic advising, career counseling, and mental health support. The Student Learning team offers workshops and one-on-one consultations to help students improve their study skills, writing, and research abilities. Career Development Services assist students with job applications, interview preparation, and career planning.

For students' health and well-being, the university has a Student Health Centre that offers medical consultations, counseling services, and wellness programs. There is also a gym and recreation center where students can participate in fitness classes, sports, and other recreational activities. The university encourages students to maintain a healthy lifestyle by providing access to sports facilities, including swimming pools, sports fields, and courts for various activities.

Accommodation services are available for students who wish to live on campus. The university offers a range of housing options, including residence halls and self-catered apartments. These accommodations provide a supportive community environment where students can live and study comfortably.

The university also has various student clubs and organizations that cater to different interests, including cultural, academic, and recreational groups. These clubs provide opportunities for students to engage in extracurricular activities, meet new people, and develop leadership skills.

Additionally, the university offers dining services, including cafes and food outlets that provide a variety of meal options. Students can enjoy healthy and affordable meals on campus, making it convenient for them to focus on their studies without worrying about food preparation.

Other essential services include IT support, financial assistance, and transport options. The university provides free Wi-Fi across campus, computer labs, and technical support to help students with their digital needs. Financial support services assist students with scholarships, grants, and budgeting advice. Transport services, including bike racks and shuttle buses, make commuting to and from campus easier for students.

Overall, the University of Waikato ensures that students have access to a wide range of services and facilities that enhance their university experience, support their academic success, and promote their well-being.

The University of Waikato is a prestigious institution in New Zealand, known for its strong academic programs, research excellence, and vibrant student life. Here are a few reasons why students should choose this university:

1. High-Quality Education – The University of Waikato is ranked among the top universities in the world and is recognized for its innovative teaching methods and strong academic programs. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees across various disciplines, including business, engineering, computer science, and environmental sciences.

2. Strong Industry Connections – The university has strong ties with industries and businesses, providing students with opportunities for internships, work placements, and real-world experience. This helps graduates to be job-ready and enhances their career prospects.

3. Research Excellence – The University of Waikato is known for its research contributions in various fields, including cybersecurity, environmental science, and indigenous studies. Students have the opportunity to work with leading researchers and contribute to groundbreaking projects.

4. Beautiful Campus and Modern Facilities – The university’s main campus in Hamilton is set in a picturesque environment with modern facilities, including state-of-the-art laboratories, libraries, and student support services. The Tauranga campus also offers excellent facilities and a great learning environment.

5. Supportive Student Community – The university provides a welcoming and inclusive environment for international and domestic students. There are numerous student clubs, cultural events, and support services to help students adjust to university life and succeed in their studies.

6. Scholarships and Financial Support – The University of Waikato offers a range of scholarships for both domestic and international students, making education more accessible and affordable.

7. Strong Focus on Sustainability – The university is committed to sustainability and environmental responsibility, integrating sustainable practices into its operations and academic programs.

8. Great Location – Hamilton is a vibrant city with a lower cost of living compared to other major cities in New Zealand. It offers a great lifestyle with easy access to beaches, mountains, and outdoor activities.

Choosing the University of Waikato means gaining a world-class education in a supportive and innovative environment, with excellent career opportunities and a great student experience.

• University of Waikato PhD Scholarship