The University of Waikato

The University of Waikato’s main campus is in Hamilton, a vibrant and multicultural city immersed in indigenous Maori culture, and home to around 155,000 people. Located on the banks of the Waikato River, Hamilton and the surrounding areas offer world-class bike trails, surf beaches and award-winning restaurants.

Our new campus is located in Tauranga, a city of around 125,000 people some 90 minutes from Hamilton. The cosmopolitan city of Tauranga is well known for its blue skies, warm climate, beautiful beaches, stunning harbour and relaxed lifestyle. The campus here is a multipurpose space where students, researchers, the community and industry can work together in the heart of the fastest growing region in New Zealand.

As well as a great lifestyle and world-class education, the region boasts one of New Zealand’s largest and most varied economies. Waikato is part of New Zealand’s ‘Golden Triangle’, an area bounded by Auckland, Hamilton and Tauranga that makes up over half of the country’s gross domestic product and provides more than 50% of all jobs in New Zealand.

The University of Waikato’s 11 faculties and schools cover a wide range of subjects including arts and humanities; sciences; engineering; management; health and sport; education; Indigenous studies and law. We offer a range of qualifications from undergraduate degrees to postgraduate diplomas, masters and higher degrees by research. Our faculties and schools combine world-class research with state-of-the-art facilities and relevant, forward-thinking teaching.

With over 2,000 internships and industry placements available, Waikato students are exceptionally well-prepared for employment after graduation. We have staff across the University dedicated to finding work placements for our students and offer a wide range of courses at undergraduate and postgraduate level that have internship and industry experience components. The University of Waikato has close links with many businesses and organisations that are willing to host and work with our students during their studies.

Our students tell us that we are one of the friendliest and most supportive universities in New Zealand. Our dedicated staff will provide you with the advice and support you need to ensure your time at Waikato is successful.

The International Student Services team is here to assist you during your time at the University. Staff organise orientations for all new students and oversee visa renewals, insurance, international student events and our student buddy programme.

Internationally recognised

The University of Waikato is a consistent climber in the most prestigious international rankings. We’ve risen 135 places in the QS World University Rankings in just six years!

The Waikato experience

Our campuses are bursting with life and energy. With smaller class sizes, better access to lecturers, affordable living, a wide range of support services, and with dozens of student clubs, your student experience at Waikato will be dynamic and distinctive.

Flexibility

Our flexible degree structures mean you can study a broad range of subjects to shape a qualification that meets your strengths and career goals, and which will keep your skills in demand.

Scholarships

We believe in rewarding success, which is why we offer hundreds of scholarships every year to our students to help fund their study and study-related expenses.

Teaching excellence

Waikato students learn from award-winning lecturers and world-leading researchers who are committed to delivering you a world-class, innovative education.

Industry ready

Each year, we offer more than 2,000 industry placements and internships. Whether you’re an undergraduate or postgraduate student, our partnerships and networks offer you a unique opportunity to embed yourself in local or international organisations as part of your learning experience.