The University of Canterbury is a prestigious destination that is ranked in the world’s top 250 universities, with a number of subjects ranked in the world’s top 200 (QS World University Rankingss). What’s more, UC has been awarded with a 5-star ranking for research and teaching excellence by the QS World University Rankings.
Outstanding international academics
Come and learn from world class lecturers in their academic discipline. You will find them personable and passionate about their academic areas – they are experts in their field ready to support you on your journey at UC.
UC’s Erskine Programme attracts up to 75 distinguished, international academic visitors each year to give lectures in their specialist areas. Previous Erskine Fellows having included two Nobel Prize winners – Emeritus Professor Clive Granger and Professor Bob Grubbs.
Get to know one of our many teaching superstars – Associate Professor Ekant Veer is the first New Zealand academic to be named one of the world’s Best 40 Under 40 Professors. Sit in for Professor Veer’s UC Connect Lecture and hear for yourself!
Learn from passionate researchers finding solutions for the world – Lecturer and Researcher Dr.Matthew Cowan from the department of Chemical and Process Engineering is the winner of Silver on the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry, honouring his contributions as a Young Chemist.
Come see UC’s academics in action by attending the free ‘UC Connect’ public lecture series, either in person or via YouTube.
A history of academic excellence
The University of Canterbury was established in 1873 and is New Zealand’s second oldest university. Since its establishment, UC has produced graduates who have gone on to become world leaders in their fields. UC is committed to continuing this tradition of excellence and to developing tomorrow’s leaders.
We are proud to have nurtured graduates who have a real impact on the world we live in – including actor Sam Neil and Google’s Engineering Director, Craig Nevill-Manning.
You will find our graduates in top jobs and graduate schools the world over. Hear direct from our students about how UC helped them on their path to excellence with our Student profiles.
- World Class Student Guide to New Zealand (PDF, 2MB, 15 pages)
- World Class Student Guide to New Zealand (中文) (PDF, 2MB, 28 pages)
- International Prospectus (PDF, 2MB, 56 pages)
- International Prospectus Chinese (中文) (PDF, 4MB, 56 pages)
Information for International Students
As a university community we condemn the horrific attacks on Mosques in Christchurch and extend our solidarity and support to our students and staff.
We acknowledge that our international students may feel particularly vulnerable at this time and have taken prompt actions to address your safety and wellbeing needs.
We are collaborating with the UCSA and government agencies to ensure your safety and wellbeing. The following support services are in place for you when/if required:
- Free transport service
- Free care pack delivery
For more information on the above, please contact the UCSA at [email protected].
We are also working with the UCSA and other community agencies to address any safety concerns you may have.
We understand that the event may have an impact on your academic schedule and have taken steps to address this too.
This is a challenging time for all, and we can assure you that our staff are fully committed to supporting all of UC’s international students.
We also encourage you to check in with one another, ask “Are you okay?”, and ensure you are in contact with family and loved ones (especially those outside of Christchurch) as often as you need to.
If there is anything they need, please encourage your loved ones to contact the many support services available both inside and outside the University community.
If you are concerned about someone who may need assistance, please email our International Relationships Office (IRO) – [email protected].
Alternatively, please contact any of the below services who may be able to get in touch with that person:
Student Care can provide you a place to talk to someone if you do not know what to do, and also have a team of dedicated Student Advisors for both domestic and international students if you’re feeling unsafe. Additional international support is also available from:
- Malaysian Student Society
- Indonesian Student Society
- International Doctoral students contact us
UC Health Centre – you can make an appointment to talk to a health professional including nurses, doctors and counsellors to help you get through this difficult time. If you need to be seen straight away, please tell the Health Centre reception staff that your situation is urgent; they will then find a health professional you can talk to.
UCSA Advocacy and Welfare can help you if you are experiencing financial difficulties at this time, including support with food, and can help you communicate with your teaching staff and apply for extensions and Special Consideration if you are finding your study is being affected;
UC Chaplains are available if you need someone to talk to.
UC Security – if you are concerned about walking alone on campus, especially at night, follow the advice and tips from our Security team here. You can view the safe walking routes map here.
More about UC
International Partnerships
- UC works closely with many other distinguished universities all around the world. Students have excellent opportunities to gain global experience whilst at UC.
Accommodation
- Find out about accommodation options whilst studying at UC.
Student Support
- There are many resources available to help you adjust to life in a new country and succeed in your studies.