University of Canterbury : Programs , Fees, Admission, Placement

About the University of Canterbury

Established on June 16, 1873, as Canterbury College, The University of Canterbury is one of New Zealand's oldest universities. Situated in Ilam, Christchurch, the University campus comprises a big 76 hectares. The university offers many courses in Engineering, Computer Science, Business, Arts, Education, Health, Law, and Science for students. Students can pursue bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD degrees. At UC, strong teaching, research, and good job outcomes are highly valued, with around 95% of students getting placed. It ranks among New Zealand’s top universities and is highly famous for engineering, innovation, and successful alumni.

University of Canterbury Popular Programs, Duration & Fees

The University of Canterbury is well known for its Engineering, IT, Mechatronics, and Business courses, mainly for international students. These courses emphasize practical education and skills for the workplace. The 4-year full-course program for the Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) Mechatronics costs about NZD 45,000 to 50,000 per year. Other 3-year undergraduate programs, such as Computer Science (Information Technology) or Commerce (Business), cost about NZD 33,000 to 45,000 per year. The 1 to 2-year master's program, such as the Master of Engineering or Master of Business, costs about NZD 36,000 to 48,000. The placement rates for the university are very high at 95%, offering excellent start-up packages.

University of Canterbury Rankings and Global Reputation

The university is ranked third among universities in New Zealand and ranks among the 250-600 best universities worldwide. According to the QS World University Rankings 2025, the University of Canterbury ranks 261st among all universities worldwide. Other subjects rate higher than this ranking, including Civil Engineering, ranked among the best 100 worldwide; Mechanical Engineering, 151-200th worldwide; and Linguistics, ranked among the best 50 worldwide. Other rankings rate the University of Canterbury among the good universities worldwide. The University of Canterbury is proud to have among its notable alumni the famous Nobelist, Sir Ernest Rutherford.

University of Canterbury Placements and Career Opportunities 

Job placement outcomes for the University of Canterbury are excellent. Nearly 95% of its graduates attain jobs in the first six months of completing their studies, and this puts them in the top two universities in the country in regard to job placement. The average beginning pay package for Mechatronics engineers offered by the University of Canterbury ranges between NZD 70,000 and NZD 77,000. Jobs in information technology attract salaries of between NZD 70,000 and NZD 80,000. Students who pursue a degree in business can hope to attain a salary of NZD 90,000 in a couple of years of experience in the job market. 

Eligibility Criteria

University of Canterbury – Undergraduate Eligibility

• Class 12 (CBSE/ICSE or equivalent): usually 75–80% overall; IB 24+ points (program-dependent).
  
  

• IELTS 6.0–6.5 (min 5.5–6.0) / TOEFL iBT 80–90+ / PTE 50–58+.
  
  

• English-medium schooling may qualify for a waiver (subject to UC approval).
  
  

• Portfolio/interview required for some creative or design courses.
  
  

• Apply online with transcripts, SOP, and references; an application fee may apply.
  
  

University of Canterbury – PG Eligibility

• Relevant bachelor’s degree with 60–65%+ or NZ B-/B equivalent.
  
  

• IELTS 6.5–7.0 (min 6.0) / TOEFL iBT 90+ / PTE 58+.
  
  

• CV, SOP, and 2 references are usually required.
  
  

• 1–3 years of work experience preferred/required for some programs; GMAT usually not required.