About

New Zealand is an island country in the south-western Pacific Ocean comprising two main landmasses (the North Island and the South Island), and numerous smaller islands. The population is mostly of European descent, with the indigenous Maori being the largest minority. Asians and non-Maori Polynesians are also significant minorities, especially in the urban areas.

Educational System

The New Zealand education system is highly regarded, internationally recognized and has high academic standards. Typically, a bachelor’s degree will take three years, and a further year of study will lead to an Honors degree. Not every degree follows this 3+1 pattern: there are some four year degrees (which may or may not be awarded with Honors),and some specialist bachelor’s degrees which take longer to complete.

Typically, Honors may be awarded with first class, upper second class, lower second class or third class, but this can vary from degree to degree. A bachelor’s degree may be followed by a Master’s degree. A candidate who does not hold an Honors degree may be awarded a Master’s degree with honors: such a degree usually involves two years study, compared to one year for a Master’s degree for a candidate who does have an Honors degree. A candidate who has either a Master’s degree or a bachelor’s degree with Honors may proceed to a doctoral degree.
The Ph.D. normally takes at least three years of full-time study and research. The degree is awarded on the basis of the thesis, requiring original research and an oral examination. In special circumstances examiners require may also require the candidate to take a written examination.
There are eight government-funded universities providing undergraduate and postgraduate degree programs. Some also offer foundation programs. While all offer a broad range of degree subjects. Each university has its own specialized courses. All New Zealand universities offer a broad range of subjects in the arts (humanities and social sciences), business and science. Each also has its own specialist subjects such as medicine, engineering, law, veterinary science, computer studies, agriculture and environmental studies.