University of Waikato

Established in 1964, we’re home to around 13,000 students and 1,500 staff. We offer a distinctive and rewarding university experience with strong international links to advance knowledge.

You can achieve a globally recognised education and enjoy a unique student experience in a country renowned for its stunning landscapes and innovative thinking. Through our strong connections with local, national and global industries, Waikato creates opportunities for you to apply your knowledge and skills in real work environments.

Because we understand that each student is unique, we offer personalised programmes with plenty of support throughout. Enjoy the benefits of a smaller university where you will be known as an individual and be nurtured throughout your time with us by our dedicated team of student support advisors.

The University of Waikato offers the perfect combination - quality education, a supportive academic environment and the beautiful friendly cities of Hamilton and Tauranga which are great to live and study in.

Worldwide reputation

Waikato stands proudly on the world stage as a provider of future-focussed international education and in an active player in global research. Our rankings reflect these strengths.

We are ranked 92nd in the world for the THE Impact Rankings (2023).The Times Higher Education Impact Rankings score institutions against the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The ranking reflects the University of Waikato’s commitment to using the power of our research and our people to make a significant, positive contribution on both a local and global scale.

We are proud to be ranked 32nd in the world for SDG17 Partnership for the Goals, 34th for SDG14 Life below Water, 44th for SDG15 Life on Land, 48th for SDG16 Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions and 51st for SGD5 Gender Equality.

We are also placed 250th in the world and the #1 University in New Zealand for Research (measured by citations per faculty member) by the QS World University Rankings 2024.

Our Waikato Management School is a member of an elite group of business schools worldwide that have earned 'Triple Crown' status – an international acknowledgement of excellence in business education. We are accredited to AACSB, EQUIS and AMBA – only 1% of the world's business schools have met the strict standards of all three accreditation bodies.

Future career prospects

These five overarching themes and associated graduate attributes capture the qualities—the competencies—that the University community agrees all its graduates should develop as a result of successfully completing their university studies.

• Disciplinary and professional thought leaders
• Innovative and creative critical thinkers
• Communicators & collaborators
• Culturally competent citizens
• Ethical & reflective citizens

English language support

Applicants whose first language is not English are required to provide satisfactory evidence of English language proficiency.

The University accepts a number of alternative English language tests to meet the English language entry requirements. See a list of these tests.

Facilities and support arrangements

On campus you'll find everything you need and more. The Pā, our landmark new building, sits at the heart of the campus and provides a new entrance to the university, a student hub (including food outlets and social learning spaces) and a new university marae (meeting house). Close by you will find our multi-functional Student Centre which provides a central hub for student support and combines traditional library resources with high-tech computer facilities. UniRec, our on-campus gym is one of the best-equipped gyms in the country with weights and cardio equipment, group exercise classes, swimming pool, squash courts and a sports hall. We also have:

• Cash machines*
• Cafes and food outlets
• Doctors/Nurses
• Multi-faith chapel* and prayer rooms
• Pharmacy*
• Post office* (part of pharmacy)
• Student kitchens
• Wellbeing hub

*Hamilton Campus only. However, as the Tauranga campus is located in the heart of the CBD, many of these facilities are within walking distance.

Read more about student support services.

Location

The University of Waikato has two unique campuses that are each located in two vibrant New Zealand cities – Hamilton and Tauranga.

Hamilton: Our main campus is located in the vibrant, multicultural city of Hamilton, with outdoor activities, shopping malls and eateries only a short drive away. Situated on the beautiful Waikato River, Hamilton has plenty to offer to international students and will ensure your university experience is one-of-a-kind.

Hamilton is well positioned near the centre of the North Island. It’s close to New Zealand’s biggest city, Auckland, as well as beautiful beaches, native forests, and snowy mountains. Hamilton has the perks of city life with lower prices when compared to larger cities. It is also one of New Zealand’s fastest growing cities and as the city grows, so do the number of cafés and restaurants. The suburb of Hamilton East is close to campus and full of great options including locally made ice-cream, quirky cafés, and vintage shops.

The Waikato region that Hamilton is in, is known for its untouched nature and rolling green hills. There are lots of popular hiking trails to try such as Hakarimata Summit Track, Blue Spring, and Mt Te Aroha Summit Track.

Tauranga: The city campus offers a modern, multipurpose space where students, researchers, the community and industry can work together.

Our Tauranga campus is part of a growing educational precinct that includes state-of-the-art science and engineering labs, a marine science research centre, an aquaculture research facility, a high-performance sports facility and a new Blue/Green tech innovation lab.

With current capacity for 1,500 students, the Tauranga campus will continue to develop as demand grows. Plans are underway for a new wellbeing and recreational centre that will further enrich the student experience.

Accommodation

Choosing the right accommodation will help you transition smoothly to university life, get straight into your studies, and start building lifelong memories and friendships. We have both Halls of Residence and Self-catered accommodation available:

Halls of Residence: Enjoy the convenience and security of living on campus. Living in the Halls of Residence is a great way to meet people and enjoy the ultimate student experience.

Self-catered accommodation for returning and international students is also available. Students live in cottages or studios and are responsible for their own meals.

Read more about accommodation.