Intro To Science

2022
Science
Pūtaiao
Bachelor of:
Data Science
Environmental Science with Honours
Forestry Science
Health Sciences
Science
Speech and Language Pathology with Honours
SCIENCE
GRADS
GET JOBS
STEM graduates employed
full-time earn more than
non-STEM graduates
(UC Graduate Destination
Survey, 2019)
Ngā Kai o Roto | Contents

Plan your degree Why study at UC Subject guide
1 Welcome to Science 16 Study Science at UC 26 Subjects
2 Why Science? 18 Applied learning
4 Bachelor of Science 19 Student support
5 Follow your interests with the BSc 20 Interdisciplinary approach More information
6 Checklist for entry to a BSc 21 Purpose-built
7 Careers in science 54 Planning your degree
22 Living laboratory
8 Bachelor of Speech and Language 55 Frequently asked questions
23 Flexibility
Pathology with Honours 57 Contact us
24 Accessible experts
10 Bachelor of Data Science
25 Compact campus and city
11 Bachelor of Environmental Rainbow Diversity Support
Science with Honours
12 Bachelor of Forestry Science Published Mātahi-ā-te-tau | May 2021. Information is
correct at the time of print but is subject to change.
13 Bachelor of Health Sciences The University’s official regulations are at
www.canterbury.ac.nz/regulations
14 Certificates and diplomas UC is proud to partner with Ngāi Tūāhuriri and Ngāi Tahu
15 Conjoint and double degrees Front cover: In the design Makaurangi, a fingerprint,
to uphold the mana and aspirations of mana whenua.
the three elements are representative of Ngā Kete o te
SCIENCE
Wānanga, the three baskets of knowledge, with the lines
and koru a symbol of mana and mana whenua. This
design originates from traditional whakairo (carving)
and kōwhaiwhai designs which can often be seen on the Pūtaiao. Te pū o te ao.
rafters inside wharenui (meeting house). Choose science. Change the world.
Kia ora
Nau mai ki te Pūtaiao.
Welcome to Science at UC.
We’re excited to be with you
on the first step towards
your future.
You can pursue your interests, or you
may discover a new one altogether, from
the wide subject options available to
you. Here’s all you need to know about
starting your journey with us at Te
Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | University
of Canterbury — from planning your
degree to understanding where
your time at UC can take you
personally and professionally.
Nā reira, kia tau mai tō waka
ki UC i te tau kai te eke mai
— tauti mai, rarau mai!
Come and settle your waka
(voyaging canoe) here
— we look forward to
welcoming you to our
UC whānau in 2022!
Charlie
Studying towards a Professional Masters
in Geospacial Science and Technology
and a Graduate Diploma in Geography
www.canterbury.ac.nz 1
$216
MILLION
investment in new
facilities including the
state-of-the-art Rutherford
Regional Science and
Innovation Centre
Why Science?
Where can it take me?
A career in science is
limited only by your own
The world is facing immense challenges. For every imagination. You could be
problem, science is helping us find solutions. Science anything — marine biologist,
needs curious, young minds with new ideas and market analyst, psychologist,
approaches. Science needs people like you who want policy advisor, seismologist,
to make a difference. aerospace engineer, and much,
much more.
2 For the most up-to-date information, please check our website.

Where do I start? We offer heaps of options and Our qualifications
flexibility, state-of-the-art
A Bachelor of Science (BSc) is • Bachelor of Science
facilities, amazing research
the first step to becoming a BSc
opportunities (in the lab and
scientist. It can open doors to • Bachelor of Speech and
the field), and passionate,
many other careers too. A BSc Language Pathology
world-recognised lecturers,
has lots of subjects to choose with Honours
who challenge students to look
from, exposes you to new BSLP(Hons)
beyond the surface and what is
ideas and technologies, and
known. Our campus is friendly, • Bachelor of Data Science
gives you the skills and tools
compact, and based just on the BDataSc
you’ll need to understand and
edge of Ōtautahi Christchurch.
influence the world around you. • Bachelor of Environmental
Our 3-year BSc degree is hugely Science with Honours
Join your fellow dreamers,
flexible and you can mix and BEnvSci(Hons)
explorers, and innovators.
match subjects across a range
Choose science and change
of disciplines. This allows you to • Bachelor of Forestry Science
the world. BForSc
explore a wide range of subjects,
try things out, and see what you • Bachelor of Health Sciences
like before you specialise and BHSc
Why UC Science? progress in your career. • Certificates
At UC Science, you decide where
You can choose from 18 majors • Graduate and
you’re going — our job is to help
or minors, and courses from postgraduate options.
you get there.
other subject areas, giving you
See pages 4–15 for our full list
the opportunity to design your
of qualifications.
own future.
Bachelor of Science. BSc
A Bachelor of Science (BSc) Bachelor of Science – example degree structure
is about understanding Year 1
100 100 100 100 100 100 100
and improving the natural
SCIE
101 Level Level Level Level Level Level Level
world through observation, Year 2
experimentation, modelling, 200
Level
200
Level
200
Level
200
Level
200
Level
200
Level
200
Level
100 or 200
Level
and calculation. Year 3
As a BSc student, you’ll investigate the big issues 300 300 300 300 300 300 200 or 300 200 or 300
Level Level Level Level Level Level Level Level
confronting our planet including climate change,
human health and diseases, the global water Compulsory Science major Other Science Courses from Science
crisis, food security, environmental protection, course courses1 courses or other degrees
and much more. A BSc will expose you to new 1 Students should allow for more than one potential major subject. Students should check the 100-level requirements for their potential
ideas and technologies, develop your research majors as some majors require more than two 100-level courses or enrolment in a complementary subject such as Mathematics.
skills, and help you make a real contribution to Each small block represents a 15-point course. However, some courses may be 30 points or more.
This diagram is an example only – other combinations are possible. For specific course requirements, go to
the challenges facing our world. www.canterbury.ac.nz/regulations
Recommended preparation Minors Conjoint degrees

Provided you have entry to the University, all You may also choose to do a minor in Youth and Conjoint degrees are accelerated programmes for
Science subjects can be started in the first year. Community Leadership, or from subject options high-achieving students, which combine two degrees
However, previous study is recommended for within this degree, or Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor into a single bachelor degree in as little as four years.
some Science subjects, in particular Chemistry, of Commerce, and Bachelor of Sport Coaching. Bachelor of Science conjoint degree options are:
Mathematics, and Physics. Some of these A minor requires 75 points of courses, with
courses have entry requirements. 45 points above 100-level. • BA/BSc
If you have not studied one or more of the When choosing your first-year courses you • BCom/BSc
required subjects, or did not achieve enough should include courses that allow you to • BProdDesign/BSc
credits, but have University Entrance, you may advance to 200-level in at least two subjects.
consider taking a course from the Certificate of
The BSc is very flexible; as well as the major Further study
University Preparation.
subjects, you can study courses such as If you have achieved top grades during your
You may be able to fast-track your degree and Antarctic Studies, Forestry, Water Resource Bachelor of Science, you may be permitted to enter
gain direct entry to the second year if you have Management, and Health Sciences that count the BSc(Hons), which is an accelerated 12-month
excellent Year 13 results or a New Zealand towards your BSc. postgraduate degree.
Certificate in Science with outstanding merit.
www.canterbury.ac.nz/regulations The College offers a number of different
postgraduate pathways available including
Degree structure Major subjects
the BSc(Hons), MSc, and PGDipSc, as well as
Astronomy Geography
The BSc degree requires a minimum total of qualifications that are more specialised and
360 points: Biochemistry Geology
vocationally focused.
Biological Sciences Linguistics
• a minimum of 255 points of Science courses
Chemistry Mathematics
• the remaining 105 points can be from either Career opportunities
Computer Science Medicinal Chemistry
Science courses or courses from other degrees. A BSc sets you up to pursue a wide range of careers
Economics Philosophy
At least 225 points must be from courses above all over the world — from marine biologist to
Environmental Science Physics
100-level, with at least 90 points at 300-level. market analyst, psychologist to policy advisor,
Finance Psychology
seismologist to aerospace engineer, and much
Financial Engineering Statistics more. It can open doors to many other careers,
Majors
including business, politics, medicine, finance, and
For a major, you must complete all majoring
requirements, including 60 points at 300-level
Double degrees engineering. With a BSc, anything is possible.
in a single science subject (unless specified Many students combine the study of a BSc www.canterbury.ac.nz/careers
otherwise). A double major is possible in with another degree such as a BA, BCom, or
many subjects. LLB. Students considering this should seek Te Rāngai Pūtaiao | College of Science
advice from Te Rāngai Pūtaiao | College of T: +64 3 369 4141
Science Student Advisor and the advisors for E: collegeofscience@canterbury.ac.nz
the second degree. www.canterbury.ac.nz/science

Follow your interests with
the BSc
When it comes to
choosing your subjects,
the most important thing
is to do what interests you.
The examples below show
how you might ‘build’
your BSc degree around
specific areas of interest.
Astrophysics
Astrophysics is a branch of space science
concerned with the physical nature of stars and
other celestial bodies.
If you’re interested in this area of science, you
could choose Astronomy as your major subject,
with Physics, Mathematics, and Geography
University of Canterbury Mount John Observatory.
as additional subjects. This would be a BSc
in Astronomy.
Bachelor of Science majoring in Astronomy
Climate change Year 1
and sustainability SCIE ASTR PHYS PHYS MATH MATH COSC COSC
101 112 101 102 102 103 121 or 131 122
Climate change and sustainability are some of
the biggest issues facing our planet. This area Year 2
of science is helping us understand how things ASTR PHYS PHYS PHYS PHYS MATH 100 Level1 100 Level1
are changing, and what we can do to adapt. If 211/212 203 205 206 285 201 or above or above
you’re interested in this area of science, you Bachelor of Science majoring in Geology
could choose Geology as your major subject Year
Year 31
with Environmental Science, Water Resource ASTR ASTR PHYS PHYS PHYS GEOG 200 Level1 200 Level1
SCIE
323/325 GEOL
381 310113 or
GEOL CHEM 114 or
311/313 STAT
319 310
ENVR orGEOG
above orANTA
above
Management, and Geography as additional 101 111 GEOL 115 CHEM 111 101 101 106 101
subjects. This would be a BSc in Geology.
YearCompulsory
2
course
Science major
courses
Courses from Science
or other degrees
Forensic science GEOL GEOL GEOL GEOL ENVR GEOG BIOL ANTA 201 or
241 242 243 246 201 206 209 GEOG 205
1 These courses may be chosen to meet the students’ interests or the Mathematics major and are best done in conjunction
the Student Advisor.
withor
WATR 201
Forensic science uses scientific methods and Bachelor ofrepresents
Each small block Sciencea 15-point
majoring
course. in Psychology
However, some courses may be 30 points or more.
processes to solve crimes, including gathering Year 3 is an example only – other combinations are possible. For specific course requirements, go to
Year 1
This diagram
DNA evidence, fingerprint analysis, detailed GEOL GEOL GEOL GEOL ENVR WATR GEOG 310 or
SCIE
336 PSYC
337 PSYC
338 354
BCHM BCHM 301100
CMDS HRSV
301 HRSV311
GEOG
examination of crime scenes, or the recovery of 101 105 106 111 112 Level 103 104
digital documents. If you’re interested in this
area of science, you could choose Psychology YearCompulsory
2
course
Science major
courses
or other degrees
as your major subject with Linguistics, PSYC PSYC PSYC PSYC LING HRSV SOCI PHIL
Biochemistry, and Sociology as additional
206 211 212 213 225 210
Each small block represents a 15-point course. However, some courses may be 30 points or more. 218 236
subjects. This would be a BSc in Psychology. Bachelor of Science majoring in Biochemistry
Year 3
Alternatively, you could major in Biochemistry Year 1 PSYC PSYC PSYC SOCI SOCI
with Chemistry, Psychology, and Biological SCIE 333 PSYC PSYC335 BCHM BCHM 344 CMDS 311
CHEM 293
STAT
Sciences as additional subjects. This would be a 101 105 106 111 112 100 Level 111 101
BSc in Biochemistry. Compulsory Science major Courses from Science
Yearcourse
2 courses1 or other degrees
www.canterbury.ac.nz/science BCHM
Each BCHM a 15-point
small block represents BCHM BCHM
course. However, some coursesBCHM
may be 30 points BCHM
or more. BIOL CHEM 255 /
/qualifications-and-courses/undergraduate 202 212 222 253 281 206 213
This diagram is an example only – other combinations are possible. For specific course requirements, go to BIOL 209
Year 3
BCHM BCHM BCHM BCHM BCHM BIOL BIOL BIOL
305 306 338 339 381 313 333 351
Compulsory
course
Science major
courses1
or other degrees www.canterbury.ac.nz 5
Each small block represents a 15-point course. However, some courses may be 30 points (or more).
1 Students should allow for more than one potential major subject. Students should check the 100-level requirements for their potential
majors as some majors require more than two 100-level courses or enrolment in a complementary subject such as Mathematics.
Checklist for entry to a BSc
You don’t need have to have taken science at school to study it at university.
While some subjects do require specific NCEA science credits for entry,
and science experience is helpful, there are still subjects you can study
with no formal science education.
Have a look at the table below and see if you fit the entry criteria for your chosen subjects.
If not, don’t worry; we offer courses, training, and other options to help you catch up.
BSc Majors
Biology Chemistry Physics Calculus Statistics Other
Astronomy * *** *** *
Biochemistry ** *** * * *
** ** * * ** **
Chemistry, for Cell Biology and
Biological Sciences
Molecular Genetics
Chemistry * *** * * * **
Calculus for Physical Chemistry
Computer Science ** ** **
Computer Science — Digital Technologies
Economics ** **
Environmental Science * ** *
Finance ** **
** ** **
Economics
Financial Engineering **
Computer Science — Digital Technologies
*
Geography NCEA Levels 2 or 3
Geography *
Any science subjects
Geology * * * ** * *
Linguistics * *
Mathematics ** *
Medicinal Chemistry * *** * * *
Philosophy *
Physics * *** *** *
* * **
A strong background in maths at NCEA
Psychology Level 1. Laboratories are computer-based and
elementary skills in computer use are required
Statistics ** **
All students must meet University Entrance requirements or their equivalent.

All BSc majors recommend English language skills at NCEA Level 2, except Linguistics which recommends NCEA Level 3.
Key
* Useful background
** Recommended background
*** Required background

Careers in science
UC Science graduates are • combines mātauranga Māori and scientific

knowledge to unlocking the potential for
• leads whānau, hapū, or iwi organisations,
businesses, and corporations
highly employable — our native species eg, identifying bioactive • offers their services as a consultant.
employers and graduates properties in plants
verify this. • studies and identifies toxins and properties

in native plants used in rongoā or traditional
Medical physics registrar
• operates and improves diagnostic and
Māori medicine
Not only are there varied career opportunities therapeutic equipment
for graduates, but the connections we have with • produces research reports and advises
• helps prevent, diagnose, and treat different
industry at a local and national level means you business, government, and industry.
diseases/conditions
will have the best start to your career. • ensures radiology, nuclear medicine, and
Environmental scientist
radiation treatments are safe and effective.
Career opportunities • applies knowledge of atmospheric, water, and
soil chemistry to the environment Geotechnical engineer
UC Science graduates are employed all over the
world in exciting, challenging, and rewarding • carries out field and lab tests, records data,
• advises on site selection using geological
jobs. Here are some of the jobs our graduates conducts analysis, and writes scientific reports
maps and aerial photographs
are doing: • connects Māori knowledge and values with
• advises landowners on risks and site selection
environment research
for new housing or papakāinga developments
Research scientist • works between iwi and Government agencies
• uses specialised software to design structures
• designs and conducts research experiments to ensure mātauranga Māori is reflected in
public policy and research. • advises on construction materials and testing.
• analyses the data and results
• integrates traditional Māori knowledge and
Data analyst Career support
values in science
• data scientist Our Te Rōpū Rapuara | UC Careers team can help
• supports sustainable Māori development and with all aspects of your career decision-making.
cultural aspirations through research • analyses past and current data
They can help you with career planning and
• publishes journal papers, files patents, and • makes predictions and provides insight
guidance, searching for a job or internships,
presents information at conferences. • acts as a bridge between IT experts and connecting you with potential employers, and
business analysts.
much more.
Toxicologist, chemical consultant
www.canterbury.ac.nz/careers
• identifies toxic substances and evaluates Entrepreneur and CEO
potential harmful effects www.canterbury.ac.nz/science
• develops an idea to form their own business
/why-uc-science/careers-in-science
• conducts laboratory and field experiments • gets involved in a start-up
Bachelor of Speech and Language
Pathology with Honours. BSLP(Hons)
Over the four years of Bachelor of Speech and Language Pathology with Honours – example degree structure
this degree, students Year 1 – Intermediate
100 100 100 100 100 100
gain the knowledge and
CMDS STAT
161 101 Level1 Level2 Level2 Level2 Level2 Level2
skills to assist a wide Year 2 – 1st Professional
variety of people with 25%
communication and
Year 3 – 2nd Professional
swallowing disorders.
30%
The Bachelor of Speech and Language Pathology
with Honours (BSLP(Hons)) is a highly regarded, Year 4 – 3rd Professional
professional degree accredited by the Te Kāhui 50%
Kaiwhakatikatika Reo Kōrero o Aotearoa
New Zealand Speech-language Therapists’
Association (NZSTA). UC students are able to Compulsory courses Clinical placement Elective courses
utilise excellent on-site resources including 1 Students must take one of the following: HLTH 106; MAOR 165; MAOR 172; TREO 110; TREO 111.
clinics and research facilities. 2 Students can choose courses from other degrees to make up 120 points. Some courses are recommended.
Each small block represents a 15-point course. However, some courses may be 30 points or more.
Recommended preparation www.canterbury.ac.nz/regulations
Entry into the Intermediate Year The compulsory courses in your first year cover Further study
The Intermediate Year is open to all students anatomy, physiology, and statistics. Students
Postgraduate options include:
with University Entrance. A background in must also take one course in Māori culture,
science is recommended. language, or health. The four recommended • Master of Audiology
courses cover communication disorders, • Master of Science (majoring in Speech and
Entry into the Professional Years linguistics, and psychology. Language Sciences)
The first year is followed by the Professional • Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).
Years. Entry into the Professional Years is limited
The Professional Years
and is based on completion of the Intermediate First Professional Year courses focus on speech Career opportunities
Year, academic merit (normally a B+ or better and language development and disorders,
evidence-based practice, and audiology. By Our graduates are in demand and highly
grade average), and fluency in English. Relevant
working with a range of clients you will gain employable both in Aotearoa New Zealand
work experience may also be considered.
practical experience (which represents up to 25% and overseas. They go on to work in
Applications for entry to the First Professional
of the year’s work). hospitals, schools, and private clinics. Some
Year close on 1 October of the preceding year,
of our graduates now have their own private
although late applications will be considered if In the Second Professional Year, you continue practices, while others are working in research
places are available. to study different types of communication labs, and designing and developing new
If you are unsuccessful in gaining a place in the disorders, work with practising therapists, and speech‑language technologies.
First Professional Year, your completed courses complete coursework in a hospital setting. This
year your fieldwork increases to 30%. The BSLP(Hons) is recognised in Australia, the
can usually be credited to a BSc, BHSc, or BA.
United Kingdom, Ireland, and Canada.
In the Third Professional Year, you take more
Degree structure advanced courses and also complete research www.canterbury.ac.nz/careers
work. About half of your year will be based in
The BSLP(Hons) requires a total of 480 points.
the field, and you will spend more time taking Te Kura Mahi ā-Hirikapo | School of
responsibility for the assessment of clients and Psychology, Speech and Hearing
The Intermediate Year the planning, management, and evaluation of T: +64 3 369 4333
The first year (Intermediate Year) comprises therapy programmes. E: psyc-speech-hear@canterbury.ac.nz
a minimum of 120 points or eight 15-point www.canterbury.ac.nz/study/qualifications- www.canterbury.ac.nz/science
courses (or equivalent). The Intermediate courses and-courses/bachelors-degrees/bachelor-of- /schools-and-departments
may be taken in one full-time year of study or speech-and-language-pathology-honours /psyc-speech-hear
accumulated over more than one year.

A career where you can make
a difference
All over the world there Is this career for me? We’re also affiliated with the New Zealand
Brain Research Institute, and Te Kāhui Roro
are people struggling If you are caring, patient, and enjoy helping
people, then you would definitely make a good
Reo | New Zealand Institute of Language, Brain
to communicate, speech-language therapist. It helps if you are
and Behaviour.
for many reasons — also interested in medicine and understand how

the human body works.
During your studies you’ll get to work with
people of all ages at clinics in Aotearoa or
stroke, injury, illness, overseas. You’ll graduate with skills and
developmental delays, or Real-world experience

knowledge that can change lives.
even lack of confidence. Study the BSLP(Hons) with us and gain first-hand
Te Kura Mahi ā-Hirikapo | School of
Speech‑language
experience in a real world environment. You’ll get
Psychology, Speech and Hearing
to work directly with clients and alongside top
therapists help people
T: +64 3 369 4333
clinicians and researchers at our on-site clinics
E: psyc-speech-hear@canterbury.ac.nz
recover, regain confidence,
and research centres, and in schools, hospitals,
www.canterbury.ac.nz/study
and more.
and reclaim their lives.
/subjects/speech-and-language-pathology
Our research centres

What is and clinics:
speech‑language therapy? • Swallowing Rehabilitation
Speech-language therapy is the treatment, Research Laboratory
support, and care of people who have • Speech Production-Perception Lab
difficulties with communication or swallowing.
• Te Puna Whakaora Rehu Ohotata | Rose Centre
This may include difficulties with speech,
for Stroke Recovery Research
language and cognition (thought processes),
or physical processes. • Te Reo o te Tamaiti | Child Language Centre
• UC Speech and Hearing Clinic.
Who needs it?
Communication difficulties can affect all types
of people of any age and background, from
new-born babies to the elderly. Speech-language
therapy benefits people with autism, stuttering,
or those who have suffered stroke, brain injury,
or cancer.
Bachelor of Data Science.
BDataSc
Data is used by Bachelor of Data Science – example degree structure
organisations of all sizes Year 1
COSC COSC MATH SCIE 100 100 100
to make better decisions.
DATA
101 121 122 102 101 Level Level Level
In this degree, you will Year 2
learn how to analyse and DATA
201
DATA
203
COSC
262
PHIL
240
STAT
201 or 202
200
Level
200
Level
200
Level
interpret data to inform Year 3
decision-making and DATA DATA STAT 300 300 300 100 Level
forecast trends. 301 303 315 or 318 Level Level Level or above
Compulsory Major Courses from Science

With big data comes big responsibility, and courses courses or other degrees
you will learn the importance of data security, Each small block represents a 15-point course. However, some courses may be 30 points or more.
ethics, and strategy. You will learn skills in This diagram is an example only – other combinations are possible. For specific course requirements, go to
programming, mathematics, and statistics
from experts in biology, computing, geography,
linguistics, and many other fields. As a result, Degree structure Further study
you will be able to contribute your diverse
skillset across many cross-disciplinary fields. The BDataSc requires a minimum total of You can go onto postgraduate studies in Data
360 points: Science within the Bachelor of Science with
A number of our research centres utilise data Honours and Master of Science.
science, including Toi Hangarau | Geospatial • 195 points of compulsory Data Science
Research Institute; Hangarau Tangata, Tangata core courses UC also offers specialist studies with the Master
Hangarau | HIT Lab NZ; Wireless Research Centre; • 165 points of courses towards your major. of Applied Data Science, Master of Spatial
Te Kāhui Roro Reo | NZ Institute of Language, Analysis for Public Health, and the Professional
At least 225 points must be from courses above
Brain and Behaviour; and Te Pokapū Aronui Master of Geospatial Science and Technology.
100-level, with at least 105 points at 300-level.
ā-Matihiko | UC Arts Digital Lab.
In your final year, you will also undertake a Career opportunities
research project aimed at solving a particular
Recommended preparation industry or community problem. As data increases exponentially, there is a high
The Bachelor of Data Science is open to all demand for people who can store, organise, and
students with entry to the University. A analyse big data for many different uses.
background in secondary school subjects such Major subjects Roles include data scientist, data analyst, data
as maths, statistics, computing, and IT will be Bioinformatics architect, solutions architect, business analyst,
especially useful. UC offers introductory courses Computational Linguistics information technology consultant, statistician,
for students with little or no background in Data Science marketing analyst, and other IT or software
these areas. Population Health Data Science engineering related positions.
Spatial Data Science www.canterbury.ac.nz/careers
Te Rāngai Pūtaiao | College of Science

‘Data Science is one of the T: +64 3 369 4141
most essential and employable E: collegeofscience@canterbury.ac.nz
of the 21st century.*’ www.canterbury.ac.nz/science
In 2019, LinkedIn ranked

‘Data Scientists’ as the
number 1 most promising job,
with job openings for data
scientists rising 56% on the
previous year.
*
TechRepublic – based on US data in job openings, salary,
career advancement opportunities.

Bachelor of Environmental Science
with Honours. BEnvSci(Hons)
Do you want to do your Bachelor of Environmental Science with Honours – example degree structure
part for the environment? Year 1
This degree will give you ENVR
101
BIOL
112
GEOG
106
SCIE
101
STAT
101
CHEM
111 or 114
100 Level 100 Level
or above or above
skills and the practical Year 2
learning you’ll need to ENVR ENVR BIOL BIOL209 or
200 200 200 100 Level
address the pressing
GEOG205
209 210 274 or 208 Level Level Level or above
environmental issues Year 3
we face — in Aotearoa ENVR

300
ENVR
302
ENVR
304
PSYC
341
300
Level
300
Level
300
Level
100 Level
or above
and globally. Year 4
ENVR ENVR ENVR 400 400 400 100 Level
Accreditation from the Environment Institute of 480 411 415 Level Level Level or above
Australia and New Zealand (EIANZ) endorses the
degree to deliver environmental practitioners Zero-points,
zero-fees courses
Compulsory
courses
Major
courses
Optional
courses
for roles in industry, government, education and
research, and the community. 30 points of optional courses must be chosen from Schedule E: Group 1, with any remaining points chosen from Group 2.
Various disciplines of science intersect in this This diagram is an example only – other combinations are possible. For specific course requirements, go to
programme to create a layered understanding
of complex sustainability challenges we face
— for example in freshwater resources, marine
contamination, coastal erosion, biosecurity, At least 225 points must be from courses above Career opportunities
natural disasters, and climate change. You 100-level, with at least 105 points at 300-level.
There are several opportunities for
will assess impact resulting from disasters, www.canterbury.ac.nz/regulations Environmental Science graduates, such as within
ecological change, and historical and current
Major subjects regional, local, and central government agencies
human activity.
(for instance Manatū Mō Te Taiao | Ministry for
Through classroom, lab, and field studies, you Freshwater
the Environment, Hīkina Whakatutuki | Ministry
will learn research, data analysis, problem- Ecosystem Health and Biosecurity
for Business Innovation and Employment, and
solving, communication, and teamwork skills. Environmental Change Te Papa Atawhai | Department of Conservation),
This degree also combines mātauranga Māori Environmental Contamination Crown Research Institutes, private organisations,
with environmental research to unlock the Environmental Hazards and Disasters or consultancies.
potential of indigenous knowledge. Sustainable Coasts In this degree, you will develop culturally
responsive knowledge that will inform your
Recommended preparation Further study scientific knowledge. You can work in advisory
The BEnvSci(Hons) is open to all students with roles, to ensure your community’s voice is
UC offers postgraduate studies in Environmental reflected in public policy and research.
entry to the University.
Science in the Master of Science and PhD
While no particular background is required, programmes. Graduates may also study a www.canterbury.ac.nz/careers
secondary school subjects such as biology, variety of related subjects in the Master of
chemistry, geography, and sustainability are Science in Biological Sciences, Biochemistry, Te Rāngai Pūtaiao | College of Science
good preparation. Most important is a passion Chemistry, Geography, and Geology. T: +64 3 369 4141
for the environment and our role as kaitiaki E: collegeofscience@canterbury.ac.nz
A range of specialist and vocationally focused
protectors of our natural world. www.canterbury.ac.nz/science
masters programmes include the Master of
Disaster Risk and Resilience, Master of Urban
Degree structure Resilience and Renewal, the Professional Master
The BEnvSci(Hons) requires a minimum total of of Geospatial Science and Technology and the
480 points: Master of Water Resource Management.
• 270 points of compulsory Environmental
Science core courses
• a minimum of 135 points of courses towards
your major
• a minimum of 60 points of elective courses.
Bachelor of Forestry Science.
BForSc
The Bachelor of Forestry Bachelor of Forestry Science – example degree structure
Science (BForSc) is Year 1

FORE FORE FORE FORE BIOL STAT 100 100
a professional degree 111 131 141 151 112 101 Level Level
offered by Te Kura Year 2

Ngahere | School FORE
205
FORE
215
FORE
218
FORE
219
FORE
222
FORE
224
SOIL
203
of Forestry. It is an Year 3
interdisciplinary degree FORE FORE FORE FORE
that prepares graduates 307 316 327 342
for managing forest Year 4
resources by combining
FORE FORE FORE FORE
419 422 447 414
core science courses with Compulsory Elective Forestry Dissertation for honours Elective courses from
management, commerce, courses Science courses students only Science or other degrees
and technology.
Small classes and field trips make for an

engaging and rewarding learning experience at
In the second, third, and fourth years, you If you are considering a double degree you
UC. Forestry Science graduates are highly sought
will then apply your knowledge to the forest should consult Te Kura Ngahere | School of
after by employers and follow exciting and
situation, with elective options available in the Forestry or Te Rōpū Takawaenga o UC | UC
rewarding career paths.
third and fourth years. Liaison Office before enrolling.
It is possible to study the first year of the BForSc There is also a Forest Engineering programme at
Recommended preparation at other Aotearoa New Zealand universities. UC, which students can study as a Bachelor of
The BForSc is open to all students who gain Students considering this option should consult Engineering with Honours in four years.
University Entrance. It is recommended that Te Kura Ngahere | School of Forestry for their
prospective students take NCEA Level 3 biology course selection, which would include FORE 102 Further study
and maths, including statistics and probability — Forests and Societies or FORE 105 Forests of the
or the IB/ Cambridge equivalent.
  World (available by distance). UC offers a Postgraduate Diploma in Forestry
for graduates looking to update or retrain, and a
You may be able to fast-track your degree and www.canterbury.ac.nz/study/qualifications- master’s and PhD for those who wish to advance
gain direct entry to the second year if you have and-courses/bachelors-degrees/bachelor-of- their Forestry Science studies and research.
excellent Year 13 results or a New Zealand forestry-science
Certificate in Science with outstanding merit.
Career opportunities
It is possible to gain entry into the second or Bachelor of Forestry Science UC students benefit from New Zealand Institute
third year of study with a Bachelor of Science
(BSc) or a New Zealand Diploma in Forestry with
with Honours of Forestry meetings, lectures on campus,
outstanding merit. Students with a good grade average across and summer work opportunities. Some of
200 and 300-level courses may be invited to the biggest companies in Aotearoa hire UC
Degree structure undertake honours as part of the fourth year of graduates and many obtain work overseas.
their degree. Honours involves the completion of Possible careers include forest management
The BForSc requires a total of 480 points over a research course FORE 414 Dissertation. (plantation and native forests), iwi advisory,
four years. The first year provides a strong base
policymaking, conservation, harvesting,
in pure science, which is necessary for the
professional study of Forestry Science.
Double degrees wood processing, forest science, timber
appraisal, biosecurity, forest economics, and
First year courses cover a broad range of topics You can combine the Forestry Science degree
land management.
from trees, forests, and the environment with the study of another degree, such as a
Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) or Bachelor of www.canterbury.ac.nz/careers
to the commercial aspects of forestry
and the importance of ecology, diversity, Science (BSc) degree. Normally you can complete
and conservation. First year electives can the two degrees in five years, but some degree Te Kura Ngahere | School of Forestry
complement the degree or be of general interest combinations may take longer. It is also possible T: +64 3 369 3500
to students. to complete a BCom degree with a strong E: forestry@canterbury.ac.nz
Forestry emphasis. www.canterbury.ac.nz/engineering
/schools/forestry

Bachelor of Health Sciences.
BHSc
The BHSc is a three-year Bachelor of Health Sciences majoring in Psychology – example degree structure
programme that provides Year 1
a comprehensive overview HLTH
101
HLTH
106
BIOL
116
HLTH
110
PSYC
105
PSYC
106
100
Level
100
Level
of health and health care. Year 2
It is a multidisciplinary HLTH
201
HLTH
202
MAOR 270 PSYC
206
PSYC PSYC 200
Level
100
Level
qualification and our
or MAOR 212 200 Level1 200 Level
graduates are using their Year 3

HLTH PSYC PSYC 200
skills in the health sector
PSYC
301 339 344 300 Level2 Level
and beyond. Compulsory Major Other courses from Health Sciences

courses courses or other degrees
Aotearoa New Zealand’s health and disability 1 From PSYC 207, 208, 209, 211, 213.
sector is characterised by a diverse workforce 2 From PSYC 333, 335, 336, 340, 346, 348, 349.
made up of many occupations. This diversity Each small block represents a 15-point course. However, some courses may be 30 points or more.
is essential to providing the range of services This diagram is an example only – other combinations are possible. For specific course requirements, go to
required to meet individual and public
health outcomes.
This programme is based on world-leading Graduating BHSc students who complete Further study
research and provides the opportunity for HLTH 312 Health Planning, Implementation
Students with a health-related undergraduate
internships in health-related workplaces. and Evaluation are recognised by the Health
degree may apply for entry to postgraduate
Promotion Forum as meeting the foundation
Health Sciences programmes. Students with
knowledge and understanding of Ngā
Degree structure Kaiakatanga Hauora mō Aotearoa | Health
the appropriate background may be able to
• The BHSc requires a total of 360 points made apply for programmes in Counselling, Child and
Promotion Competencies for New Zealand.
up of 135 points from compulsory courses Family Psychology, Cognitive Behaviour Theory,
and Nursing*.
and at least 90 points from one subject major. Major subjects *
The Master of Health Sciences Professional Practice and
• The first year of study gives students a Bachelor of Nursing joint initiative between UC and the Ara
foundation in Health Sciences through core Majors Institute of Canterbury gives the opportunity for students
courses introducing students to health Environmental Health who already hold a relevant degree to gain two further
qualifications in just two years.
studies, human biology, epidemiology, and Health Education
Māori health. Students will also undertake Māori and Indigenous Health
courses from their chosen major. Psychology Career opportunities
• At least 225 of the total points must be Public Health The BHSc at UC is ideal preparation to equip
for courses above 100-level. In the second Society and Policy students to work within the many non-clinical
and third years of study, students will gain areas of health, health management, and health
specialist knowledge in their chosen major. care. You will gain multidisciplinary skills and
Double majors insights that are highly valued in these fields.
www.canterbury.ac.nz/study/qualifications-
Many students choose to enrol in a double Health Sciences graduates work in settings
and-courses/bachelors-degrees/bachelor-of-
major and this can often be completed in the such as district health boards, government
health-sciences
same length of time as a single major. Students ministries, local government, non-government
commonly combine majors in Public Health, organisations, Māori health providers,
Workplace skills and knowledge and Society and Policy; Health Education and aged residential care, schools, primary care
This degree will provide students with an Psychology; and Māori and Indigenous Health organisations, universities, and polytechnics.
awareness of the critical health challenges and Public Health. Elective courses may be
facing Aotearoa. Essential workplace skills will be www.canterbury.ac.nz/careers
chosen from Health Sciences or other degrees
gained in cultural competency and working with across the University.
communities to improve health outcomes. Te Rāngai Ako me te Hauora | College
Students will graduate being able to evaluate of Education, Health and Human
quantitative, qualitative, and Kaupapa Māori Development
information, equipping them for decision T: +64 3 369 3333
making in the workplace. E: educationadvice@canterbury.ac.nz
www.canterbury.ac.nz/education
Certificates and diplomas
Certificate in Science CUP welcomes students who: CUP courses
If you are interested in science, but don’t wish to • have recently finished Year 13 programmes The certificate comprises four courses: TRNS 001
commit to full-time degree study just yet, you but missed University Entrance and three optional courses.
might consider the Certificate in Science. • are under 20 and left school without Course Course title
The Certificate comprises a minimum of University Entrance code
60 points at 100 and/or 200-level and can be • have been out of study for a number of years TRNS 001 Academic Writing and
completed in six months full-time, or one to and want to refresh their study skills and Study Skills*
two years of part-time study. The Certificate in obtain further background knowledge before TRNS 002 Te Uku: Perspectives on the
Science can be used as a stepping stone to the beginning a degree programme history and political expansions
Bachelor of Science. • are Aotearoa New Zealand or Australian of Aotearoa and the Pacific
Citizens or Permanent Residents who are TRNS 003 An Introduction to Social Issues
Certificate in Science – possible structure
proficient in English. and Challenges
Year 1 TRNS 004 Teacher Education and
If you are under 18, you must meet the literacy
100 or 200 100 or 200 100 or 200 100 or 200 Educational Studies
Level Level Level Level Level Level and numeracy requirements for University
Entrance and have 14 credits at NCEA Level 3 TRNS 005 Exploring the Psychology and
Science subject (eg, Geography) in at least one subject or equivalent on the Biology of the Human Mind
approved list. TRNS 006 Chemistry: An introduction to
Each block represents a 15-point course.
This diagram is an example only – other combinations are possible. atoms, bonding, and reactions
For full requirements, go to the University Regulations webpage Programme structure and duration TRNS 007 Preparatory Mathematics
www.canterbury.ac.nz/regulations/academic-regulations/certsc-31
TRNS 008 Fundamental Physics
The CUP programme helps students to develop
the skills necessary for successful university TRNS 009 An Introduction to Statistics
For the full requirements, see the Regulations for study, including time management; oral and and Probability
the Certificate in Science. written communication; analytical, critical, and TRNS 010 Digital Data: An exploration of
www.canterbury.ac.nz/regulations problem solving; and interpersonal, group, and the use and pervasiveness of
/academic-regulations teamwork skills. data in a digitised society
TRNS 011 An Introduction to Business
In the February and July intakes, the core course
TRNS 001 Academic Writing and Study Skills is TRNS 012 An Invitation to Law
delivered in partnership with Hagley College on TRNS 013 Special Topic
T: +64 3 369 4141
E: collegeofscience@canterbury.ac.nz the UC campus. TRNS 017 Mathematics with Calculus
www.canterbury.ac.nz/science Māori and Pasifika students can study the core MATH 101 Methods of Mathematics
skills course on the University campus as part *
Compulsory.
of the connective grouping — Te Waka Talanoa.
Certificate in An academic pathway will be designed around Te Rōpū Takawaenga | Liaison Office
University Preparation (CUP) a student’s individual needs via another three Freephone in NZ: 0800 VARSITY (827 748)
courses that make up the CUP certificate. E: liaison@canterbury.ac.nz
CUP is a one-semester programme designed for
While it is desirable to complete the CUP www.canterbury.ac.nz/get-started
students who do not meet the requirements
full‑time in one 13 week semester, it is possible /transition/certificate
for University Entrance or who have been out of
study for a substantial period. to study part-time. Distance/flexible options
Students who successfully complete the

are also available. Students who want to enrol
Diploma in Advancing
in one or more CUP courses are able to do
programme will be eligible to apply for entry to so by enrolling in a Certificate of Proficiency
University Studies
100-level degree courses at UC. Preparatory (COP PREP). A number of CUP courses This Diploma is a 120-point qualification that
CUP intakes are in February, July, November, and are available through distance learning. provides a direct pathway into UC’s master’s
January of the following year. degree programmes.
To enrol, you will need to have previously
completed a university-level certificate or
diploma programme (or equivalent) of at least 2
years full-time study.
The Diploma can be started in February or July,
and will take 1 year (two semesters) of full-time
study to complete, or up to 4 years part-time.

Double and conjoint degrees
Science is by nature an Conjoint degrees More information

interdisciplinary area of Conjoint degrees are accelerated programmes
for high-achieving students, which combine two
Careful course planning is necessary when you
are planning on studying double or conjoint
study. In fact, some of our degrees into a single bachelor degree in as little degrees, to avoid overload and to ensure all
greatest discoveries have as four years. requirements for each degree are met. Contact
the Liaison Office or a Student Advisor in each
come about by combining The accelerated programmes require 60 points
fewer than a double degree, as well as a relevant College or School.
science with new or minimum sustained grade point average
different areas, such as arts (equivalent to a B+) and a higher workload at
135 points per year. Students must graduate in
T: +64 3 369 4141
or engineering. both degrees that are part of the conjoint at the E: collegeofscience@canterbury.ac.nz
same time. Conjoint programmes leading to a www.canterbury.ac.nz/science
You can combine your UC Science degree with BProdDesign/BSc, BCom/BSc, or BA/BSc can be
other UC qualifications depending on your completed in just four years.
interests and ambitions.
You could combine your BSc with any of the Double degrees
following degrees: It is possible to combine a Science degree
• Bachelor of Arts with other degrees; a Bachelor of Science and
• Bachelor of Commerce a Bachelor of Laws is a highly marketable
combination. The Bachelor of Science also
• Bachelor of Laws combines well with the Bachelor of Arts,
• Bachelor of Engineering Bachelor of Commerce, or the Bachelor of
• Bachelor of Product Design. Forestry Science.
These are just some examples; there are many Normally you can complete the two degrees in
more degrees on our website to choose from. five years, but some degree combinations may
take longer.
Combined degrees can be completed through
our conjoint degree programme or as a If you are considering a double degree, you
double degree. should get advice from the Science Student
Advisor or Te Rōpū Takawaenga | Liaison Office.
35
Main subject combinations
are available to study
within a Bachelor of Science
Study Science at UC Interdisciplinary

approach
Contemporary science cuts
UC is committed to strengthening your knowledge, across diverse domains and
transferable skills, and bicultural competence and is constantly changing. An
confidence in order to help you make a real difference academically varied background
in society. Here is why UC Science is unique. allows you to see how things fit
together to get results (page 20).
Applied learning Student support Purpose-built

You will have hands-on learning We value manaakitanga at UC’s laboratories, research
experiences in lectures, labs, Te Rāngai Pūtaiao | College of centres, and field stations are
and at our field stations. You Science. We are committed to internationally renowned. Added
can ‘do’ science right from the supporting you on your study to this is a brand-new regional
first semester of your first year journey and to help you succeed. research centre, that embraces
(page 18). There are many initiatives for the Ngāi Tahu cultural narrative
students to navigate university life of Whatukura in its design,
— from mentoring to essay or CV and ensures students are at
writing. We also offer specialised the forefront of contemporary
support services for Māori and science. Learning spaces in the
Pasifika students. As a UC student centre have state-of-the-art
you are part of our whānau, we equipment in a modern teaching
will look after you (page 19). environment (page 21).

Living laboratory
Ōtautahi Christchurch and
Waitaha Canterbury are a living
laboratory where students
can see science in action and
the impact that it has on
communities (page 22).
Flexibility
With a broad degree programme
that gives you plenty of
opportunities to specialise later
on, UC Science fosters the flexible
and knowledgeable graduate
that employers are looking for
(page 23).
Accessible experts
UC is the top university in the
country for the proportion of
researchers that teach, so you
will be taught by scientists who
are at the forefront of advances
in their field (page 24).
Compact campus
and city
Ōtautahi Christchurch is an
accessible city with many
businesses and research
locations close by, and our
campus is like a mini city
(page 25).
Karla
Studying towards a Bachelor of Science
in Physics and Mathematics
50%
of Speech and Language
Pathology coursework in your
final year will be clinical
practice or applied learning
Brianne
‘Studying science has not only
Applied learning
helped in practical terms —
like being able to formulate
products and carry out clinical
trials — but it also taught
You will be out and about — in lectures, labs, and at our me how to evaluate sources,
read studies, think critically,
field stations — right from the first semester. and look at all options before
making a decision. I’ve been
Time to get practical • We operate Aotearoa New Zealand’s leading able to use the skills I have
astronomical observatory at Ōtehīwai Mount
As well as extensive science laboratories,
John, Takapō Tekapo.
to create a business that has
research hubs, and field stations, UC has: a positive, tangible effect on
• UC also has research bases in Antarctica and
• a new Rutherford Regional Science and
the Nigerian rainforest.
the environment and that
Innovation Centre (see page 21) feels amazing.
• a high-performance computing facility Influence the world around you
I’m passionate about the
• on-site clinics A BSc will expose you to new ideas and
technologies, develop your research skills,
values my company stands
• 24-hour computer labs
and help you work out how to influence the for and the change we’re
• Te Puna Pūkaha me te Pūtaiao | Engineering
world around you. Internships and projects on creating in the world. I’m
and Physical Sciences library.
issues such as climate change, human health, insanely proud that we’ve
First in the field the global water crisis, food security, and prevented more than 130,000
You will have plenty of chances to test out
environmental protection, are an ideal way of
bottles from being made and
solidifying learning and effecting change on
your knowledge, with UC field stations around
topics you are passionate about. disposed of — our next goal is
Aotearoa New Zealand and beyond. one million.’
• Our courses make extensive use of the field Improve people’s lives
stations in Cass and Kawatiri Westport. Did you know that UC students can solve Brianne
• Field facilities are utilised in Te Mata Hāpuku real-world problems in on-campus clinics? Entrepreneur, biochemist, and founder,
Birdlings Flat and Te Iringa o Kahukura Those studying Speech and Language Pathology, Ethique Beauty
Cashmere in Ōtautahi Christchurch. Linguistics, and Psychology can apply their Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences
learning in these clinics to help real people.

2,500
students were seen
face-to-face by a Science
Student Advisor in 2019
Stephanie
‘I enjoy studying at UC
Student support
because the department
is so close-knit and the
lecturers and professors
have so much experience
We have many support services to help you navigate in the speech therapy field
to share with the students.
university life. My degree is also very well
structured and we get a lot of
A little advice can go a long way • Advice on eligibility to graduate hands‑on experience through
When you join UC it’s the start of a relationship. • Cross-crediting between degrees clinical placements.
We walk alongside you as you progress through • Transferring between degrees or universities
your studies, and we take pride in your success. I really enjoy building new
Our academic advisors, UC Māori at Te Tari o te
• Exemptions, such as waivers of pre-requisites
relationships and rapport with
or core-requirements.
Amokapua Māori | Office of the AVC Māori, and all my clients. What makes me
the Pacific Development Team provide all the Other support services love my future profession as a
support you need. Our strong alumni network
UC offers many services that can help you to speech and language therapist
and connections with employers and researchers
flourish personally and academically: is being able to improve my
throughout Aotearoa and overseas add even
• mentoring clients’ quality of life so the
more value to your UC experience.
• Pacific student support issues they acquired do not
And don’t forget the expert lecturers or
• Ākonga Māori | Māori student support
stop them enjoying life to
technicians on hand — many are award-winning
teachers and they are keen to help you progress the fullest.’
• Te Pokapū Pūkenga Ako
your knowledge. See page 24 for more. Academic Skills Centre
Stephanie
• Te Ratonga Whaikaha | Equity and
What can a Science Student Disability Service
Studying towards a Bachelor of Speech and
Advisor help you with? Language Pathology with Honours
• Te Rōpū Rapuara | UC Careers
• Degree planning, including double degrees, • Ākonga tū, ākonga ora
conjoint degrees, and double majors UC Students’ Association
• Explaining your course options • Atawhai Ākonga | Student Care advice
• Understanding degree regulations • Te Ratonga Hākinakina | UC Rec & Sport
• Te Whare Hauora | UC Health Centre.
ANYTHING IS
POSSIBLE
Career opportunities with a
UC science degree range
from forensic scientist to
meteorologist, resource planner
to clinical therapist
Hannah
‘One of the things that
Interdisciplinary
surprised me is the number
of positions that a science
degree opened up. It was
approach
the critical thinking and
analytical skills, rather than
the direct information that I
learnt in the degree, that was
Modern science needs interdisciplinary collaboration, most useful. This has meant
to see things differently and get results. I’ve had a wide range of jobs
from R&D at Resene Paints
to working with engineers
So many study options students from multiple disciplines working
alongside each other on projects to create new to collect detailed building
Studying a UC Science degree means you
connections. UC is the only Aotearoa university safety information after the
can explore a wide range of subjects, from
Antarctic Studies and Astronomy, to Physics
that will be able to deliver science in this way. earthquakes, and now working
and Psychology — see pages 26–53. We have a strong tradition of research with an interdisciplinary
The interdisciplinary approach to science at UC
collaboration, with research centres and other team of physicists, computer
creates more potential pathways and enables
entities uniting people from different disciplines
scientists, and radiologists.’
within UC, nationally, and globally.
you to delve deeper or broaden your studies,
depending on your study or career goals. Hannah
Exciting careers ahead Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry and
Our Student Advisors can help you work out how
to juggle a double degree, endorsements, double Interdisciplinary learning opens up roles in Biological Sciences
majors, and other combinations — see page 57 science that are contemporary, relevant, and Master of Science in Biochemistry
for contact details. exciting. Depending on your chosen subject, you PhD in Biochemistry
could become a toxicologist or a food technician, Scientist — Sales and Application Support,
Working side by side a meteorologist or a marine biologist, a MARS Bioimaging Ltd.
psychologist or a policy advisor, a Māori liaison
Our modern Rutherford Regional Science or business development consultant, a software
and Innovation Centre will see staff and engineer, or a science writer.

25,000
square metres of brand
new teaching, research,
and lab spaces
Luke
‘All the fresh new buildings
Purpose-built
and facilities are great from
a student’s perspective. On
top of that, there are so many
trees and gardens around
What you see is not just brick and mortar — our unique campus to check out and get
your mood up when you need
cultural narratives are woven into our learning spaces, a break. There’s no other
to reflect the ideology of the University and the mana university in New Zealand
of Ngāi Tūāhuriri as our mana whenua. with a community like it.
I was worried about studying
State-of-the-art Speech and Language Pathology students have Physics because I didn’t
learning environment excellent resources including 8 on-site clinics. excel in high school, but I’ve
Our extensive facilities were boosted with the managed to do alright and I’m
opening of the $216 million Rutherford Regional
Catering for today’s learners sure you will too!
Science and Innovation Centre (RRSIC), with the and tomorrow’s leaders
name Whatukura given for its central atrium,
Don’t underestimate yourself.
The RRSIC is dynamic and adaptable, and has
inspired by the Ngāi Tahu narrative about been purposefully designed to encourage
You’d be surprised what you
Tāwhaki, who ascended the heavens in the innovation and support flexible learning and can achieve when you put your
pursuit of knowledge. teaching methods with: mind to it.’
Our students in Geography, Geology, Chemistry, • state-of-the-art laboratories
Physics, Astronomy, Biochemistry, Ecology, and Luke
• built-in technologies Certificate of University Preparation
Biological Sciences will benefit from the most
modern university science and research facilities • informal social and study spaces. Studying towards a Bachelor of Science in
in the southern hemisphere. It enables easy interactions between Economics and Physics
departments, face-to-face teaching, individual Co-founder, Vxt
Psychology and Linguistics students benefit
from modern computer laboratories, digital and small-group investigative laboratory work,
tools, equipment for animal behaviour, and online research, and learning either individually
neuroscience research and teaching. or in groups.
6 MILLION
YEARS
since the two volcanoes in
Horomaka Banks Peninsula
were last active
George
‘I realised that Geography
Living laboratory
was my ideal field of study
as it’s broad and allowed me
to combine my interests in
the environment, technology,
There is no better place to experiment and see impact the outdoors, and the world
than Ōtautahi Christchurch and Waitaha Canterbury. around me. Since then I’ve
met some of my best friends,
worked with interesting
Discover the sea and stars Transformation and emergence lecturers, and have been on
Te Moana-nui-ā-Kiwa Pacific Ocean or The Waitaha Canterbury earthquakes have great field trips.
Kā Tiritiri‑o-te-moana Southern Alps, an ancient provided an unprecedented opportunity to
volcanic peninsula, or an agricultural plain — rethink and renew a city. Ōtautahi Christchurch In one of my courses we had
these are some places your course may take you. is a living lab for scientists to study emerging to connect with community
Whether you’re in native bush, a glacial lake, or aspects of science and challenge old ways partners that needed research
an International Dark Sky Reserve, this is your of thinking. done — my group worked
Waitaha Canterbury classroom.
Te Mahere Maraka Ōtautahi | Christchurch with the Avon-Ōtākaro
The region is full of contrast and excitement.
It’s home to the highest point of Aotearoa, the
Central Recovery Plan aims to improve the social, Network to help them plan
economic, cultural, and environmental wellbeing
spectacular Aoraki Mount Cook, as well as deep their biodiversity monitoring.
and resilience of greater Ōtautahi Christchurch
sea marine life in the submarine trenches off the and its communities. From research on You learn how to work with
coast of Kaikōura. biodiversity to technological innovation, brain real people and at the end
Ōtautahi Christchurch has a history of research to economic revival, UC scientists have you feel like what you’ve done
involvement in Antarctic exploration — both been at the forefront of the rebirth of Aotearoa could have a real impact.’
Robert Falcon Scott and Ernest Shackleton New Zealand’s most modern city.
departed from Ōhinehou Lyttelton port.
Across disciplines, UC students have applied
George
As a UC student, these locations are where you their knowledge in this real-world context Bachelor of Science in Geography with an
will test hypotheses and discover new truths. through internships, research projects, fieldwork, endorsement in Environmental Science
And some of these places are within 20 minutes and community-based initiatives (see page 18 Bachelor of Arts with Honours in Geography
of campus. Co-Creator, Kea Database
for more information on applied learning).
Master’s student, Sciences Po (l’Institut
d’Études Politiques de Paris)

58
choices of minor subjects
available to BSc students,
from the BSc, BA, BCom
and BSpC degrees
Matt
‘UC provided the courses I
Flexibility
needed and was interested in
most, with the bonus of being
my local university, and I was
able to take advantage of the
Our broad, varied degree makes you a graduate Canterbury region for my
science studies.
employers are looking for. You decide, we deliver.
After completing my
Explore a range of options You’re not on your own undergraduate degree, I found
that I had also developed a
Our 3-year Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree is We understand that it can be hard to decide
passion for educating young
hugely flexible and you can mix-and-match what to study and you may want to keep your
subjects across a range of disciplines. This options open, particularly in your first year. minds and passing on my
allows you to explore a wide range of subjects, We give students the ability to try different
passion for chemistry. I went
try things out, and see what you like before you things so you can work out what you want to on to become a registered
specialise and progress in your career. do, all the while offering guidance so you remain teacher and now I get to shape
You can choose from: on track. Our dedicated Science Student Advisor the lives of young people
• 18 major or minor subjects can help you to explore your options and make and help them discover how
• 32 disciplines in total
decisions that are right for you.
amazing chemistry is. We also
get to do exciting experiments
• double major pathways or even a double The value of science graduates
degree — see page 15. (which often involve
Find out about topics as diverse as artificial
The benefit of a generalist degree like a BSc is explosions!). I think humour is
that students gain transferable skills applicable
intelligence or risk and resilience, biotechnology,
within a range of industries, scientific and
essential in the classroom, as
or science education.
otherwise. A broad degree can open up career well as being flexible.’
options. There are also expanding opportunities
in new science and technology. Matt
Bachelor of Science in Chemistry
Graduate Diploma in Teaching and
Learning (Secondary)
Teacher, Middleton Grange School
75
experts from around the world
come to teach and collaborate
at UC each year through the
Erskine Fellowship programme
Amy
‘I enjoyed the collegial
Accessible experts
attitudes of the staff and
students that I worked
with at UC. Everyone was
very supportive, both in an
Black holes, restoring waterways, geospatial tools… academic and a personal
sense, and I have made some
we are a research-intensive university. lifelong friends.
Learn from the best (Te Amorangi Mātauranga Matua | Tertiary My studies taught me to ask
Education Commission 2018 PBRF assessment). questions that get to the heart
The discoverer of a new species of plant in the
UC has the country’s top-rated Biological of the problem and look for
Philippines; the expert who advised on a spider
sequence in a BBC Attenborough series; the Sciences research school, and our geologists are analytical solutions. I picked
recipient of the Distinguished New Zealand world leaders in earthquake studies. up coding skills during my
Geographer Award; the scientist finding planets
World leaders who teach MSc and PhD degrees and
around other stars in our galaxy; the architect of these skills underpin all of my
Many receive international and national awards
the Sustainable Seas National Science Challenge;
for the quality of their teaching.
current work.
and the brains behind Te Papa and Wētā
Workshop’s exhibition BugLab — you could be ‘I’m focused on trying to tell the history of My jobs have taken me to
taught by these people during your time at UC. our home, of our place in the universe.’ — UC some amazing places —
Highly ranked
astrophysicist Dr Michelle Bannister, winner from deepest Fiordland
UC is in the top 100 universities in the world
Royal Astronomical Society’s 2020 Winton Award
to Antarctica, to work
in Linguistics; top 150 in Earth and Marine
‘We’ve got a game called Magma Drillers Save with species such as
Sciences, and Geography; and top 200 in
Planet Earth. I managed to persuade a bunch kākāpō, takahē, whio, and
of my colleagues to dress up in crazy outfits
Environmental Sciences (QS World University
from the ’70s and the future, and role play
Adélie penguins.’
Rankings by Subject, 2020).
what it might be like to take part in drilling into
UC is overall third in Aotearoa for research magma. Students work as a team to try and drill
Amy
intensity of its academic staff, ranking first in in the right place to get out magma thermal PhD in Ecology
ecology, evolution and behaviour; marketing energy and save the planet, and not start an Quantitative Freshwater Ecologist,
and tourism; political science, international eruption that might destroy the planet.’ — UC Taihoro Nukurangi | National Institute of Water
relations and public policy; and public health volcanologist Ben Kennedy and Atmospheric Research

11
major global software,
hardware, electronic,
telecommunication, and
service companies are based
in Ōtautahi Christchurch
Hamish
‘I really enjoyed the campus,
Compact campus
student lifestyle, the city,
the range of courses, the
lecturers, and my fellow
and city
students who encouraged
me to perform to my best.
Being able to come in and use
the labs at any time really
UC’s single campus connects you to a broad scientific, helped to get the finishing
business, and other interdisciplinary communities. touches on some of the more
complex assignments.
One place — many connections A campus for the curious By far, my favourite memories
An Innovation Hub in the Rutherford Regional A bustling campus with over 87 hectares of were the field trips I took to
Science and Innovation Centre (RRSIC) will foster park-like surroundings, UC has plenty of learning UC’s various field stations
connections with industry. spots for the scientifically inclined. Students as part of my Geology and
Students will be able to build knowledge can be found testing pH levels in Kā Waimaero Geography studies. A lot of
and networks while working on projects of Ilam Stream waterway, growing specimens in
hard work and a lot of fun was
the hydroponic gardens, analysing the campus
significance. This will ensure our graduates enter
layout geospatially, conducting psychological had on these trips! If you’re
the workforce with work-ready skills and the
knowledge employers need. surveys, admiring the rock and gem collection, the outdoorsy type, then
or using the new MARs scanner. Christchurch is the place
UC has connections with many organisations
within Waitaha Canterbury’s key industries. In addition to UC’s world-class laboratories, for you.’
They attend careers fairs on campus, offer work libraries, and equipment, there are over
experience, collaborate on projects, take part 15 recognised science research centres, Hamish
in research, give guest lectures, and recruit institutes, and hubs based at UC. Postgraduate Diploma in Geographic
UC graduates. Information Science
Consultant Developer, Interpret
Geospatial Solutions
8
UC Science-related
clubs on campus, from
ChemSoc to RockSoc
Aratohu Kaupapa | Subjects

Science subjects are 27 Antarctic Studies 42 Health Sciences
like the building blocks 27 Astronomy 44 Linguistics
of your degree. In your 28 Biochemistry 43 Māori and Indigenous Health
first year of study, for 29 Biological Sciences 46 Medicinal Chemistry
most of our degrees, 31 Chemistry 47 Philosophy
you’ll need to choose one 32 Computer Science 48 Physics
or two major subjects 33 Data Science 49 Psychology (see also page 43)
43 Public Health
and at least four others. 34 Economics
44 Society and Policy
Together, these make up 42 Environmental Health
50 Speech and Language Pathology
your degree. 35 Environmental Science
52 Statistics
35 Finance
Have a look through some of the 36 Financial Engineering
subjects on the next few pages and
37 Forestry Science
see if there are any that interest
you. See our full list of subjects at 39 Geography
It is not always possible for all courses to be offered
www.canterbury.ac.nz 40 Geology every year. See the online Course Information System.
/study/subjects 42 Health Education www.canterbury.ac.nz/courses

Antarctic Studies 200-level and beyond Astronomy
BA, BSc (not a major or minor subject at ANTA 201 Antarctica and Global Change is a CertSc, BSc, BA (minor only), BCom (minor only),
undergraduate level) course that requires ANTA 102 and ANTA 103, BSpC (minor only), BYCL (minor only)
or ANTA 101, as prerequisites, building on
Of all places in the world, none holds the Astronomy and astrophysics are concerned
the information from those two courses. It is
fascination and awe of Antarctica. Not only with the study of the nature and distribution of
intended for BSc students with a strong interest
is Antarctica the highest, coldest, and most matter and radiation throughout all time and
in Antarctica and explores links between the
isolated continent, but it is so vast it affects the space in the Universe.
Antarctic atmosphere, hydrosphere, cryosphere,
world’s climate and ocean currents. If the ice Astronomers have always been keen to harness
lithosphere, and biosphere. This course also
sheets were to melt, as is currently predicted in the latest technological advances in their quest
considers how Antarctica will respond to
many climate models, the sea would rise up to for ever more precise and revealing observations.
global change.
70 metres above current levels. The Antarctic and As a consequence, astronomy in recent years
surrounding Te Moana-tāpokopoko-a-Tāwhaki Antarctic Studies forms a significant component has been one of the most rapidly expanding
Southern Ocean support a unique and complex of some courses from other disciplines, of all physical sciences and many exciting and
system of life that survives in an environment at including GEOL 480 Geological Evolution of unexpected discoveries continue to be made.
the extremes. NZ and Antarctica, and LAWS 336 Antarctic
Legal Studies. Why study Astronomy at UC?
However, Antarctica has not always been the
cold, isolated, polar continent it is today. In the UC is the only university in Aotearoa
past, it has experienced warmer climates and
New Zealand to offer the study of Astronomy at
was linked to other continents, most notably as An in-depth knowledge of Antarctic issues all levels.
part of Gondwana. The fragmentation of that can form a useful part of many careers in
Te Kura Matū | School of Physical and Chemical
supercontinent shaped the southern continents science, politics, tourism, education, and
Sciences has an exciting programme of teaching
as we know them today. Many of Aotearoa law. There are a large number of people who
and research, often using state-of-the-art
New Zealand’s and the Southern Hemisphere’s visit the Antarctic every year, many of whom
facilities as part of its core work. These include:
unique plants and animals had their origins are scientists specialising in areas such as
geology, glaciology, biology, astronomy, and • field stations for meteor and atmospheric
in Gondwana.
environmental management. research, which are located at Te Mata Hāpuku
Birdlings Flat, and at Scott Base, Antarctica
Why study Antarctic Studies at UC? To make their day-to-day operations run
smoothly, a range of staff are employed • an internationally important astronomical
• Antarctic Studies courses are coordinated by observatory at Ōtehīwai Mount John, Takapō
Gateway Antarctica, the Centre for Antarctic by national Antarctic programmes — from
Tekapo, equipped with computer-controlled
Studies and Research at Te Whare Wānanga engineers to plant technicians, finance personnel
instruments and cryogenic detectors
o Waitaha | University of Canterbury. to communication managers.
• UC-constructed Hercules, a high resolution
Gateway Antarctica plays a leading role in Having a degree and some background
spectograph to search for planets and do
the quest for knowledge in a diverse range of knowledge in Antarctic Studies will give you
improved stellar astrophysics.
national and international Antarctic research a greater opportunity to visit and work in
projects, in areas including engineering Antarctica. It provides you with information on The School collaborates nationally and
in extreme environments; Antarctica as global systems that is becoming fundamentally internationally as well. For example, we have a
driver of, and responder to, climate change; important in many non-Antarctic jobs such collaboration with Nagoya University in Japan,
connections between Antarctica and as science technicians, IT specialists, and law who installed a 1.8 metre telescope at Ōtehīwai
Aotearoa New Zealand; and human influences or policymakers. The important role the polar Mount John for finding planets orbiting distant
regions play as drivers of the world’s climate will Milky Way stars.
in/ on Antarctica.
be a major consideration in many careers in the The Ōtautahi Christchurch Aerospace Strategic
Recommended background coming years. Plan aims to make the city the centre of
www.canterbury.ac.nz/careers/students/subjects Aotearoa New Zealand’s aerospace technology
Anyone eligible to attend university may enrol in sector by 2025, which will extensively use UC’s
100-level Antarctic Studies courses. facilities and research programmes, and offer
Te Kura Aronukurangi | School of Earth students internships and other entrepreneurial
100-level courses and Environment opportunities in the industry.
T: +64 3 369 0655
Course code Course title UC is ranked in the top 250 universities in the
E: earthandenvironment@canterbury.ac.nz
ANTA 101 Antarctica world for Physics and Astronomy (QS World
www.canterbury.ac.nz/science
University Rankings by Subject, 2020).
ANTA 102 Antarctica: The Cold Continent /schools-and-departments
ANTA 103 Antarctica: Life in the Cold /earth-and-environment
Recommended background
While you cannot major in Antarctic Studies Year 13 mathematics and physics are strongly
as an undergraduate student, you can take recommended for ASTR 112.
ANTA 101 or ANTA 102, and ANTA 103 as part of
any degree. ANTA 102 and ANTA 103 are half-year Certain courses require a background in Year 13
physics and calculus.
courses and you can choose to take one or both.
ANTA 101 is offered as a fully online summer
school course.
100-level courses Te Kura Matū | School of Physical and
Course code Course title Chemical Sciences
ASTR 109 The Cosmos: T: +64 3 369 3100
Birth and Evolution E: physical-chemical-sciences@canterbury.ac.nz
ASTR 112 Astrophysics
/schools-and-departments/phys-chem
Students intending to advance in Astronomy are /astronomy
required to include in their first-year courses: ASTR
112, COSC 131, PHYS 101, PHYS 102, MATH 102,
and MATH 103. Biochemistry
CertSc, BSc, BA (minor only), BCom (minor only),
200-level and beyond BSpC (minor only), BYCL (minor only)
At an advanced level, Astronomy is heavily based Biochemistry brings together a number
on mathematics and physics. Students intending of branches of science with a view to
to pursue study in Astronomy must first and understanding the chemistry of life. Such a
foremost obtain a good grounding in Physics and unique and privileged position at the interface of
Mathematics. the traditional sciences makes for a dynamic and
The courses ASTR 211 Imaging the Universe ‘I have always had an interest exciting discipline. It provides basic insight into
and ASTR 212 Dynamical Astronomy and the in science and through high biological processes such as enzyme action, drug
action, genetic engineering, photosynthesis, and
Solar System are taught in alternate years in the school, biological sciences colour vision.
second semester. ASTR 211 covers computer were a personal favourite.
Biochemistry is at the cutting edge of
image processing, astrometry, photometry, and
I love seeing the inner contemporary science, research, and
spectroscopy. ASTR 212 covers solar system
astronomy and dynamic astronomy. Students in mechanisms of life and how industry. Biochemical innovation is critical
their first year can undertake these courses once they interact at the molecular in adding value to Aotearoa New Zealand’s
they have completed a first‑semester prerequisite. level. The idea that we are agricultural production, advancing medicine,
Students majoring in Astronomy are also required all made from the same tiny and understanding the fundamentals of the
biological world around us.
to take MATH 201, PHYS 203. PHYS 205, PHYS206, building blocks that together
and PHYS 285.
form something as complex as Some knowledge of Biochemistry is useful in
many areas of Chemistry and for any student
At 300-level (BSc) and 400-level (honours and a human is fascinating. studying Biological Sciences.
master’s), courses cover the detailed structure and
evolution of stars, galaxies, and the Universe. UC has one of the best schools
www.canterbury.ac.nz/courses of biology in the country and Why study Biochemistry at UC?
combined with the location • The Biochemistry Centre at UC is a joint
Career opportunities and my degree choice, it venture of Te Kura Matū | School of Physical
Students majoring in Astronomy acquire a wide just made sense. I love the and Chemical Sciences, and Te Kura Pūtaiao
Koiora | School of Biological Sciences, which
range of skills, from the use of spectroscopic practical applications of the brings together award-winning teachers in a
and photometric detector systems (and the theory we learn.’ coordinated Biochemistry programme.
analysis of the data obtained), through electronics
and optics, to computer skills for analysis and • The Biomolecular Interaction Centre is a
Caleb collaborative research centre with
interpretation of data. This produces a graduate
who is well equipped to undertake employment Studying towards a Bachelor of Science state-of-the-art equipment that features
not only in astronomy, but in any number of fields in Biochemistry direct ties to other universities and to
that require practical experience or that involve industrial research organisations.
analysis of real data.
Studying Physics and Astronomy equips graduates Recommended background
many Astronomy graduates move into other
with skills in problem solving, abstract thinking, fields, particularly computing and information A background in Year 13 biology and chemistry
evaluating, communicating, and decision making. technology, management, and science is strongly recommended.
It develops high levels of curiosity, inventiveness, communication or media work. With some
and mathematical and computer competencies. additional study, graduates can become 100-level courses
Graduates may follow traditional paths and meteorologists, geophysicists, material First-year students intending to study
work either as scientists, technicians, research technologists, or medical physicists. Biochemistry need to take BCHM 111/
assistants, engineers, astronomers, patent www.canterbury.ac.nz/careers/students/subjects BIOL 111 Cellular Biology and Biochemistry and
agents, technical authors, or even managers BCHM 112/CHEM 112 Structure and Reactivity
at an observatory or in an institute. However,

in Chemistry and Biochemistry as these courses
are prerequisites for advanced Biochemistry Biological Sciences
courses. BIOL 112 Ecology, Evolution and CertSc, BSc, BA (minor only), BCom (minor only),
Conservation, BIOL 113 Diversity of Life, and BSpC (minor only), BYCL (minor only)
CHEM 111 Chemical Principles and Processes are Biology means the study of living things.
also recommended. Biologists investigate animals, plants, and
Students with fewer than 14 NCEA Level 3 credits microbes in many different ways, and on a
in chemistry (or equivalent) should also take huge range of scales from molecules and
CHEM 114 Foundations of Chemistry. cells to individual organisms, populations,
and ecosystems.
200-level and beyond During the past few decades, the study of
biology has undergone rapid change and has
At 200-level, the Biochemistry programme
had a significant impact on the way we live. We
consists of biochemistry together with related
are now able to produce antibiotics and vaccines,
chemistry and biology courses and also the lab
grow disease-resistant crops, transplant
course (BCHM 281 Practical Biochemistry).
organs, and manipulate genes. Biologists
At 300-level, Biochemistry courses deal with today are actively researching solutions to vital
advanced biochemistry, biological chemistry, concerns such as increasing world food supply,
biochemical and environmental toxicology, and ‘I have taken part in several improving and protecting our environment, and
important biochemical techniques. field trips to Cass, Governors conquering disease.
www.canterbury.ac.nz/courses Bay, Kaikōura, and now my We need to know how microorganisms, plants,
own research takes place in and animals work and how they interact on land
Career opportunities Tekapo. I’d recommend going and in the sea and fresh waters. Of increasing
Biochemists are key members of drug on as many field courses as importance to us is global climate change and
how this affects the living world.
development teams in the pharmaceuticals possible. They are so much
industry. Many work in government
departments (eg, in medicines regulation),
fun, and you learn way more Why study Biological Sciences at UC?
diagnostic departments in hospitals, and in being in the environment
The Biological Sciences major in the BSc degree
research institutes studying subjects as diverse you’re studying than you has been accredited by the Royal Society of
as crop protection and nanotechnology. would from a textbook. Biology (RSB) in the UK, the first in New Zealand
You could find interesting graduate jobs and to be internationally recognised in this way.
career progression with food and beverage
I love the undergraduate Graduates from accredited programmes are
producers; agricultural organisations; programme structure, which equipped with well-rounded knowledge and
manufacturing and processing companies; the allowed for a huge focus on skills, making them highly employable both
biotechnology industry; health and beauty care your major and didn’t require within and beyond their chosen field.
organisations; or science publishers. taking unnecessary courses. Our courses will help prepare you for a career
Graduates with Biochemistry in their degrees are in biology, be it in biodiversity, biosecurity, or
also well equipped to teach biology, chemistry, I also love how inclusive biotechnology. Our lecturers are all actively
and other science subjects in secondary schools. and tight-knit the Biology engaged in research on diverse and exciting
www.canterbury.ac.nz/careers/students/subjects Department is. I always felt topics. These range from those of practical and
comfortable going to talk to economic importance to Aotearoa New Zealand
Te Kura Matū | School of Physical and lecturers in their office.’ society, to those probing the boundaries of
fundamental, interest-driven science.
Chemical Sciences
T: +64 3 369 3100 Morgan Te Kura Pūtaiao Koiora | School of Biological
E: physical-chemical-sciences@canterbury.ac.nz Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences with Sciences has modern, well-equipped teaching
www.canterbury.ac.nz/science an endorsement in Ecology and research laboratories with excellent
/schools-and-departments/phys-chem Studying towards a Master of Science technical support. The full suite of molecular
/biochemistry in Biological Sciences biology and biochemistry equipment includes:
• a real-time polymerase chain reaction
machine (or DNA amplifier)
• an automatic DNA sequencer
• a confocal microscope
• tissue culture and image processing facilities
• controlled plant growth chambers
• an experimental garden and
glasshouse complex
• an extensive computer network.
UC is ranked 223rd in the world for Natural
Sciences (QS World University Rankings by
Subject, 2020).
Out in the field 200-level and beyond
Teaching and research activities are greatly You can choose to follow specific pathways
enhanced by access to field stations. such as animal behaviour, animal physiology,
Many undergraduate courses involve a biochemistry, biosecurity, biotechnology,
fieldwork component based at Cass in cell biology, ecology, environmental science,
Kā Tiritiri-o-te-moana Southern Alps. Field evolutionary biology, genetics, microbiology,
trips allow students to apply techniques and and plant biology.
hypotheses they have learnt in lectures and to
All biology majors must take BIOL 209
interact with staff in a more informal setting.
Introduction to Biological Data Analysis. For
further information on undergraduate streams
Recommended background and honours majors, go to
Year 13 biology, statistics, and chemistry are www.canterbury.ac.nz/science
strongly recommended. For certain topic areas, /schools-and-departments/biological-sciences
some knowledge of physics is helpful. All
www.canterbury.ac.nz/courses
students should have adequate English skills.
100-level courses Career opportunities

Of the five first-year courses, three — BIOL 111,
Our graduates have gone on to positions ‘I have always had a passion for
as teachers, technicians, researchers, and
BIOL 112, and BIOL 113 — are foundation
managers; and diverse other careers in
the natural world so I really
courses and are required in order to advance in
agriculture, horticulture, veterinary and medical wanted to pursue Science as a
Biological Sciences.
science, freshwater and marine fisheries, degree, and I chose to study a
Introductory Statistics (STAT 101) is also required aquaculture, oceanography, entomology, double degree in Arts to gain a
at 100-level to advance in Biological Sciences. soil biology, and food, brewing, and wider range of knowledge and
pharmaceutical industries.
Some of these courses also form part of
all-round skills.
the Intermediate requirements for Forestry. Government agencies frequently target
Students who have not taken chemistry to Biological Sciences graduates. Regular I have a passion for Te Reo
Year 13 level are strongly advised to take one
Chemistry course (eg, CHEM 114 Foundations
employers of our graduates include Crown Māori and I also really enjoy
Research Institutes, government ministries
of Chemistry). concerned with conservation, the environment, doing practical work such as
agriculture, forestry and health, and regional and lab research and field trips. I
Course code Course title
BIOL 111 Cellular Biology and
local councils. would love to find a work area
Biochemistry A Biological Sciences degree indicates you have which uses my science skills as
BIOL 112 Ecology, Evolution and the ability to access, understand, analyse, and well as my reo Māori skills.
Conservation communicate complex information. This is
BIOL 113 Diversity of Life attractive to many employers. I really enjoy the community
BIOL 116 Human Biology www.canterbury.ac.nz/careers/students/subjects vibe of UC. As a tuakana I
SCIM 101 Science, Māori and mentor other Māori students,
Indigenous Knowledge Te Kura Pūtaiao Koiora | School of tutoring them in courses I have
Biological Sciences previously done, and helping
T: +64 3 369 5200 them with general aspects of
E: biological-sciences@canterbury.ac.nz
student life.’
/schools-and-departments
/biological-sciences Grace
Te Āti Haunui-a-Pāpārangi
Studying towards a Bachelor of Science in
Chemistry and Physics, and a Bachelor of Arts
in Te Reo Māori with a minor in Māori and
Indigenous Studies

Chemistry 100-level courses • Chemists are key members of developmental
teams in the pharmaceutical industry.
CertSc, BSc, BA (minor only), BCom (minor only), Course code Course title
CHEM 111 Chemical Principles • Industry uses chemists in such areas as
BSpC (minor only), BYCL (minor only)
and Processes research and development of new products,
See also Medicinal Chemistry on page 46. monitoring product composition and
CHEM 112 Structure and Reactivity in
Chemistry is the central science. It deals with Chemistry and Biochemistry quality, and environmental monitoring
the composition, structure, and behaviour and regulation.
CHEM 114 Foundations of Chemistry
of the atoms and molecules that make up • Hospitals and other health services employ
all forms of matter. Understanding the world For most Science students, core first-year chemists in areas such as biochemical
at an atomic level is essential to all areas of Chemistry consists of two half-year courses: research, medical analysis, and toxicology.
science. Chemistry interlinks and contributes to CHEM 111 and CHEM 112. These build on,
medicine, geology, materials science, molecular • A degree in Chemistry is a good start
and expand, the basic framework provided by
physics, biology, and astronomy. to a teaching career with its emphasis
Year 12 and Year 13 chemistry. They provide a
on laboratory work and its relevance to
Its central role in science is emphasised by the background for advanced courses in Chemistry
other sciences.
fact that Chemistry merges with Biological and for courses in Engineering, Biochemistry,
Sciences (the field of biochemistry) at one Biological Sciences, Environmental Science, • The majority of chemical research in Aotearoa
extreme, and with Physics (physical chemistry Geology, and Forestry Science. is done in universities, Crown Research
and chemical physics) at the other. Institutes, and private laboratories. These
To major in Chemistry and have access to the full
institutions provide chemical challenges
Chemistry propels advances in modern society range of second-year Chemistry courses, students
equal to any in the world.
and has an important role to play in solving must pass both CHEM 111 and CHEM 112. Those
major global challenges such as energy who have passed just one of these may only be Chemists are well trained in problem solving
sustainability, food supply, health, and the able to enter some 200-level CHEM courses. and skilled at handling information, which
environment. Every day, we utilise products leads naturally into a wide diversity of job
developed by experimental chemists, such as Laboratories and workshops opportunities, including sales and management.
plastics, fabrics, petrol, and pharmaceuticals. All 100-level courses involve fortnightly www.canterbury.ac.nz/careers/students/subjects
three-hour laboratory sessions that provide an
Why study Chemistry at UC? opportunity to work with chemicals to better Te Kura Matū | School of Physical and
understand course material from lectures and Chemical Sciences
• Te Kura Matū | School of Physical and
to acquire some of the basic practical skills of T: +64 3 369 3100
Chemical Sciences at UC carries out research,
the trained chemist. Additionally, two-hour E: physical-chemical-sciences@canterbury.ac.nz
teaching, and scholarship in all of the
workshops are dedicated to working through www.canterbury.ac.nz/science
traditional areas of the discipline — inorganic,
problems and questions on the course material. /schools-and-departments
organic, physical, theoretical, environmental,
and analytical chemistry. The School is also /phys-chem/chemistry
involved with the teaching of Biochemistry
200-level and beyond
and provides service courses for engineers, 200-level Chemistry courses develop and
biologists, and foresters. expand on the first-year material and give a
• The School is equipped with excellent facilities deeper treatment of specialised areas such
both in undergraduate laboratories and for as organic and inorganic reactions, structural
research work. Research activities include methods, and physical, environmental, and
investigations into such diverse topics as analytical chemistry.
chemical biology, synthesis, supramolecular 300-level courses build upon the practical
chemistry, theoretical and computational and theoretical foundations established in
chemistry, surface and electrochemistry, the first two years to give students the ability
trace elements in the environment, to work with and understand the chemistry
nanotechnology, and new materials. of complex systems and molecules. These
courses emphasise the place of chemistry
Recommended background in the modern world and provide for the use
of modern chemical instrumentation and
Year 13 chemistry is recommended preparation
analytical methods.
for first-year students, but for those who have
had minimal preparation in chemistry, we www.canterbury.ac.nz/courses
offer CHEM 114 Foundations of Chemistry, an
introductory Chemistry course. Career opportunities
Students enrolling in CHEM 111 and CHEM 112 Aotearoa New Zealand’s unique mix of primary
must have at least 14 credits in NCEA Level 3 and secondary industries provides a wide choice
chemistry, or an equivalent background in other of careers in chemistry. Expanding industries
courses of study (eg, IB/Cambridge, or overseas in Aotearoa, for example those related to new
qualifications). Students with less than this sources of energy and to the development
standard should first enrol in CHEM 114. of forestry and dairy resources, are further
Students with outstanding results in NCEA increasing the demand for qualified chemists.
Level 3 (or IB/Cambridge equivalent) and/or Aotearoa needs chemists in teaching, industry,
scholarship may be invited to enter directly into health, and research.
second-year courses.
Computer Science Recommended background
CertCom, CertSc, BSc, BA (minor only), BCom It is possible to enrol in our courses with
(minor only), BSpC (minor only), BYCL (minor only) only a general computing background,
but it is a significant advantage to have
When people think of Computer Science they
completed the NCEA achievement standards
often just think of programming, but there
in programming and computer science (or
are many more aspects to the field, including
IB/ Cambridge equivalent).
interaction design, communications and
networks, software design, computer security, A strong background in Year 13 calculus or
information systems, big data, machine learning, statistics is recommended. A mathematical
graphics, operating systems, educational background is important for students who
systems, artificial intelligence, and embedded intend to advance beyond first year.
systems (processors that are embedded in
everything from mobile phones to cars). All of Advanced students
these areas are experiencing rapid growth both If you have very good results in NCEA
in Aotearoa New Zealand and internationally, programming and computer science
and there is a strong demand for Computer (or IB/ Cambridge equivalent), you can apply to
Science graduates. join an advanced (‘overdrive’) class. Students
Computer Science is about helping people do
with outstanding achievement in NCEA ‘It was exciting to turn my
their work efficiently and effectively by analysing
(or IB/Cambridge) and who have completed
programming hobby into
the Computer Science STAR programme can
needs and constructing appropriate solutions.
be considered for direct entry into second‑year full-time study, and it was
It goes way beyond programming, as it is about
Computer Science courses, with a view to awesome to meet others who
knowing how to design systems that are fast,
usable, reliable, secure, scalable, and make a
completing an honours degree in three years. were into it as well in my
positive impact on society and our environment. classes. I made many friends
Computer Science students learn techniques
100-level courses at UC who I still keep in touch
to tackle these challenges for applications as Course code Course title with to this day.
diverse as monitoring the condition of patients
in hospitals to designing educational games for
COSC 101 Working in a Digital World A strong maths foundation
smart phones.
COSC 121 Introduction to also helps, but I think more
Computer Programming
or COSC 131 Introduction to Programming
importantly, my abstract
Why study Computer Science at UC? for Engineers reasoning, troubleshooting,
• UC is located in Waitaha Canterbury — the COSC 122 Introduction to and building skills became
‘Silicon Plains’ of Aotearoa New Zealand, Computer Science quite good at UC, and they’re
where there are dozens of large, hi-tech Students majoring in Computer Science getting better and better.
companies employing UC graduates. Further are required to take COSC 121 or COSC 131,
afield, our graduates are in demand overseas COSC 122, MATH 102, and MATH 120.
The tech industry is great, and
and many come up with an idea for a product we always need more smart
COSC 101 and STAT 101 is also strongly
while studying, going on to become business
recommended for those who have not studied people to build cool stuff. We
owners and employers themselves.
computer science previously. don’t just need programmers,
• UC is acknowledged as a leader in Computer
It is possible to design a first year of study that we need all types to make
Science education in Aotearoa. It is the home
enables you to either continue in your second the world great — designers,
of the award-winning Computer Science
Unplugged project, and the internationally
year in Computer Science or go into Software security, testers, project
recognised Intelligent Computer Tutoring
Engineering, Information Systems, Electrical and managers, data analysts,
group. Several members of staff have awards
Electronic Engineering, or Computer Engineering.
and more.’
To keep your options open for this, talk with
for their work as computer science educators.
a Te Rāngai Pūkaha College of Engineering
• We have a vibrant student community that Sam
Student Advisor.
encourages meeting up with like-minded Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
students through clubs, including CompSoc Bachelor of Science with Honours in
and Women in Technology clubs. There is a Computer Science
good interface with industry, including an Software Engineer, PageProof
annual careers fair where students meet a
host of employers.

200-level and beyond Data Science In addition to the core courses, you will also
complete required courses towards a major
A variety of courses in Computer Science are CertSc, BDataSc subject from the list below.
available after the first year. These cover topics
essential for building innovative systems, such Data is used by organisations of all sizes to
Major subjects
as algorithms, software engineering, data make better decisions. In this degree, you will
Bioinformatics
communications and networking, database learn how to analyse and interpret data to
inform decision-making and forecast trends.. Computational Linguistics
systems, artificial intelligence, data and network Data Science
security, microprocessor systems, computer You will learn the importance of data security,
Population Health Data Science
graphics, wireless security, and computer vision. ethics, and strategy. You will learn skills in
programming, mathematics, and statistics Spatial Data Science
As part of the Bachelor of Science, students can
also choose courses from other Science subjects from experts in biology, computing, geography, Each major has specific course requirements;
and non-Science subjects. linguistics, and many other fields. As a result, please check www.canterbury.ac.nz/regulations
you will be able to contribute your diverse /academic-regulations
www.canterbury.ac.nz/courses skillset across many cross-disciplinary fields.
Career opportunities With such a wide range of industry applications 200-level and beyond
and career opportunities, Data Science has been
After your first year, Data Science courses will
There is a strong demand for graduates who identified as one of the most essential and
further expand on data ethics, algorithms,
are qualified in Computer Science, particularly employable skills of the 21st century.
database systems, statistical analysis and
those who combine technical skills with good
computer modelling, and data wrangling and
communication skills and teamwork ability. Why study Data Science at UC? data mining.
Waitaha Canterbury’s leading-edge IT sector
is facing a shortage of qualified graduates, • A number of research centres at UC utilise www.canterbury.ac.nz/courses
meaning that UC-qualified Computer Science data science, including the Toi Hangarau
graduates are in high demand. Geospatial Research Institute, Hangarau Career opportunities
Tangata, Tangata Hangarau | HIT Lab NZ,
Many employment opportunities exist with Wireless Research Centre, Te Kāhui Roro Reo As data increases exponentially, there is a high
organisations that run large computer-based NZ Institute of Language, Brain and Behaviour, demand for people who can store, organise, and
systems, such as finance companies, airline and Te Pokapū Aronui ā-Matihiko | UC Arts analyse big data for many different uses.
industries, government departments, state- Digital Lab. Roles include data scientist, data analyst, data
owned enterprises, consulting companies, and architect, solutions architect, business analyst,
computer organisations themselves. Work with • Project work in your final year will give you
real world experience in applying data science information technology consultant, statistician,
these organisations often involves international marketing analyst, and other IT or software
travel opportunities. to create workplace solutions.
engineering related positions.
Many of our students start up their own • Ōtautahi Christchurch is home to a number
of computing technology and innovation With this degree you will also have a background
software companies, and end up being in project implementation, research, critical
employers rather than employees. industries, with many start-up companies
searching for skilled graduates from UC. analysis, problem solving, and communication
Apart from a professional career in computing, skills in discussing and explaining data findings,
a degree in Computer Science can be used as all of which are useful skills in a number
a good basis for a career in the many areas in of careers.
which computer systems are applied. Graduates Year 13 studies in maths, statistics, computing,
www.canterbury.ac.nz/careers/students/subjects
are employed in fields including education, and IT will give you a good background for your
computer forensics, embedded systems and first‑year courses. UC offers introductory courses
computer graphics, and in a variety of positions if you have little or no background knowledge in Te Rāngai Pūtaiao | College of Science
including software engineer, programmer, these areas. T: +64 3 369 4141
analyst, computer consultant, webmaster, E: collegeofscience@canterbury.ac.nz
internet developer, GIS analyst, games developer, 100-level courses www.canterbury.ac.nz/science
and computing tutor. The first-year, core courses required to complete
www.canterbury.ac.nz/careers/students/subjects a Bachelor of Data Science are:
Department of Computer Science and DATA 101 Introduction to Data Science
Software Engineering
COSC 121 Introduction to
T: +64 3 369 2777
Computer Programming
E: admin@cosc.canterbury.ac.nz
www.canterbury.ac.nz/engineering COSC 122 Introduction to
/schools/csse Computer Science
MATH 102 Mathematics 1A
SCIE 101 Science, Society and Me
Economics A broad education, including history and English,
is useful to develop the ability to write clearly
CertArts, CertCom, CertSc, BA, BCom, BSc, BSpC and analyse written material.
(minor only), BYCL (minor only)
Students with very good Year 13 results in
Economics is the study of how people behave. economics may be offered direct entry to
Every day, people and society are confronted 200-level Economics courses at the discretion of
by choices. Should you go to university or the Head of Department.
start a career? What should you do with your
next dollar? Should the government raise the 200-level and beyond
minimum wage, or not? How do we address
the big issues in the world, such as poverty and Students who wish to major in Economics are
climate change? required to take Intermediate Microeconomics
and Intermediate Macroeconomics.
Choices involve trade-offs where we are choosing
Econometrics is also required for postgraduate
between two things. The outcomes of choices
study. Your other course choices should be
have both costs and benefits to consider.
determined by your interests and strengths, and
Economics is the study of how people and
there are a range of options to choose from.
societies make such decisions in the production,
exchange, distribution, and consumption of www.canterbury.ac.nz/courses
goods and services. ‘I have fun learning the ways in
Career opportunities which numbers can represent
Why study Economics at UC? Graduates in Economics find employment the real world. I really want
• At UC, students can specialise in Economics in many areas of government and business, to become a secondary school
or study it alongside other disciplines. As where it is recognised that an economist’s teacher in the future. To
education provides valuable specialist training
an Economics major can be studied as part
for a professional career as well as good general
become a teacher, you need to
of an Arts, Commerce, or Science degree,
preparation and background for an executive, be able to teach subjects that
you can decide which combination suits
your personal strengths and interests best. entrepreneurial, or administrative career. you enjoy, so that’s why I chose
Common combinations include studying The increasingly large volume of information Mathematics and Economics as
Economics with Finance, Political Science available to decision makers has created my majors.
and International Relations, Psychology, and a demand for people with well-developed
Mathematics. Students who wish to combine quantitative analysis skills, such as those I feel like people in UC
the study of Economics with another business developed in econometrics. respect me and my culture.
discipline as part of a BCom degree may be Professional economists are employed to As a member of the Student
interested in the Business Economics major. conduct research and give advice on economic Volunteer Army’s executive, I
• There is a ‘compact study route’ available, matters in various organisations such as can feel that UCSA always tries
which is a pathway for students looking to
combine Economics with another major or
government ministries and state-owned
to improve the experiences for
enterprises (eg, Kaitohutohu Kaupapa Rawa
another degree but who have little interest Treasury, Health, Social Development, Agriculture international students. They
in postgraduate study in the subject. Visit and Forestry, and Manatū Aorere | Foreign are some of the most talented
the Department of Economics and Finance Affairs and Trade). Graduates also find work and passionate people I have
website for more information on this route. in marketing organisations, Te Pūtea Matua ever met.’
• The Department of Economics and Finance Reserve Bank, Tatauranga Aotearoa | Stats NZ,
operates a consultancy project and internship trading and merchant banks, stockbroking, Quynh (Trudy)
programme where students have the insurance, trade commissions, local authorities, Studying towards a Bachelor of Science in
opportunity to gain real world experience that market research and other consultancies, and Mathematics and Economics
enhances the valuable work-ready skills that large businesses.
an Economics degree provides. Those who are passionate about economics and
• UC is ranked in the top 250 universities in the education can also go on to teaching careers in
world for Economics and Econometrics (QS schools or universities.
World University Rankings by Subject, 2020). www.canterbury.ac.nz/careers/students/subjects
Recommended background Department of Economics and Finance

While previous study of economics is useful T: +64 3 369 3888
preparation, it is not essential to have studied E: business@canterbury.ac.nz
this subject at secondary school. www.canterbury.ac.nz/business
/departments
Students can study Economics without having
/department-of-economics-and-finance
to take any mathematics. However, students
who wish to keep open the option of progressing
to postgraduate study in Economics are strongly
advised to include calculus, statistics, and
modelling in their Year 13 programme.

Environmental 100-level courses Career opportunities
Science Course code
ENVR 101
Course title
Introduction to
There are several opportunities for
Environmental Science graduates, such as
BSc, BEnvSci(Hons), BA (minor only), BCom (minor within regional, local, and central government
only), BSpC (minor only), BYCL (minor only) Environmental Science
agencies (eg, Manatū Mō Te Taiao | Ministry for
BIOL 112 Ecology, Evolution
We are facing pressing environmental issues — the Environment, Hīkina Whakatutuki | Ministry
and Conservation
in Aotearoa New Zealand and globally. for Business Innovation and Employment, and
GEOG 106 Global Environmental Change Te Papa Atawhai | Department of Conservation),
Various disciplines of science intersect in this SCIE 101 Science, Society and Me
programme to create a layered understanding Crown research institutes, private organisations,
STAT 101 Statistics 1 or consultancies.
of complex sustainability challenges we face
CHEM 111 Chemical Principles In this degree, you will develop culturally
— for example in freshwater resources, marine
and Processes responsive knowledge that will inform your
contamination, coastal erosion, biosecurity,
or or scientific knowledge. You can work in advisory
natural disasters, and climate change. You
CHEM 114 Foundations of Chemistry roles, to ensure your community’s voice is
will assess impact resulting from disasters,
ecological change, and historical and current Note: CHEM 114 is recommended if you have reflected in public policy and research.
human activity. not taken Year 13 chemistry (or equivalent) at www.canterbury.ac.nz/careers/students/subjects
secondary school.
Through classroom, lab, and field studies,
you will learn research, data analysis, You must also meet the requirements for a
Te Kura Aronukurangi | School of Earth
problem‑solving, communication, and major. See table below for the list of majors
and Environment
teamwork skills. The Bachelor of Environmental available:
T: +64 3 369 0655
Science with Honours (BEnvSci(Hons)) E: earthandenvironment@canterbury.ac.nz
Major subjects
also combines mātauranga Māori with www.canterbury.ac.nz/science
environmental research to unlock the potential Ecosystem Health and Biosecurity
of indigenous knowledge. Environmental Change
/earth-and-environment
Environmental Contamination
Why study Environmental Science Environmental Hazards and Disasters
at UC?
• BEnvSci(Hons) is the only degree of its kind in
Freshwater
Sustainable Coasts Finance
CertCom, CertSc, BCom, BSc, BA (minor only),
Aotearoa New Zealand. Each major has specific course requirements; BSpC (minor only), BYCL (minor only)
• Extensive lab and field work-based learning, please check www.canterbury.ac.nz/regulations
Finance is a rapidly growing discipline that
with a final-year work experience component /academic-regulations
examines the acquisition and allocation of
credited to degree. financial resources. Where financial accounting
• Unique focus on merging Mātauranga 200-level and beyond measures past performance, Finance as a
Māori and scientific knowledge to ENVR 201 Environmental Science and Practice discipline is forward focused. It is largely about
broaden your understanding and and ENVR 200 Environmental Science Work future planning for firms or investors.
approach to environmental issues and Experience builds on field and laboratory skills, Finance consists of three interrelated
future developments. with theoretical and practical aspects of working subject areas:
• UC operates field stations at Cass (in the as an Environmental Scientist.
• corporate finance studies how firms raise and
Waitaha Canterbury high country) and efficiently utilise funds obtained from lenders
Kawatiri Westport that are particularly well
Work placement course
and shareholders
equipped for Environmental Science teaching All students must complete 400 hours of
and research. practical work placement arranged through UC • financial markets and institutions explores
with ENVR 200 Environmental Science Work how the financial system facilitates the
• UC is ranked in the top 200 universities in the transfer of funds from savers and lenders
Experience (0 points, 0 fees).
world for Environmental Sciences (QS World to borrowers
University Rankings by Subject, 2020). Limited entry into fourth year • investment analysis studies how investors
All 300-level courses in the degree must be choose securities and asset classes for their
Recommended background completed before proceeding to the final investment portfolios.
The BEnvSci(Hons) is open to all students with year. ENVR 302 Professional and Field Skills All of these areas assess the trade-off between
entry to the University. for Environmental Scientists and ENVR 304 risk and reward and the valuation of financial
While no particular background is required, Challenges in Environmental Science must also and capital assets.
secondary school subjects such as biology, both be completed with a B Grade Point Average.
chemistry, geography, and sustainability are
good preparation. Most important is a passion
for the environment and our role as kaitiaki
protectors of our natural world.
Why study Finance at UC? 100-level courses
UC is ranked in the top 150 universities in the If you are completing a Bachelor of Science
world for Accounting and Finance (QS World majoring in Finance, you are required to take the
University Rankings by Subject, 2020). following first-year courses:
The Finance programme prepares students Course code Course title
for a variety of jobs in the financial sector and
ACCT 102 Accounting and
business community. Extra opportunities while
Financial Information
studying this subject at UC include:
• internships at a variety of organisations or MATH 199 (a STAR course for secondary
• participation in case competitions such as the school students)
CFA (Chartered Financial Analysts) Institute STAT 101 Statistics 1
Research Challenge ECON 104 Introduction to
• preparation for the CFA exams. The Finance Microeconomics
major at UC is part of the CFA Certified or ECON 199 (a STAR course for secondary
Financial Institute University Recognition school students)
Program. This means our degree programme Note: MATH 103 Mathematics 1B and FINC 101
Personal Finance are recommended.
incorporates at least 70% of the CFA Program
‘The wide range of courses
Candidate Body of Knowledge (CBOK). This
provides students with a solid grounding in 200-level and beyond in the Financial Engineering
the CBOK and positions them well to sit for degree was the biggest draw. I
Later courses provide a more detailed treatment
the CFA exams to obtain the CFA qualification.
of the topics introduced at 100-level.
knew I wanted to study some
The CFA Program provides a strong foundation form of mathematics/statistics
Students majoring in Finance should also
of advanced investment analysis and
consider taking 200-level Economics courses at university, and Financial
real‑world portfolio management skills that
will give you a career advantage in microeconomic theory and econometrics. Engineering allowed me to tie
Students majoring in Finance in the Bachelor in some Computer Science,
• the option to obtain the PRM (Professional
Risk Manager) qualification. Risk management
of Science are required to take FINC 331 Finance, and Economics.
skills are highly sought after, particularly since
Financial Economics. Employers in the financial
the global financial crisis. A double major (or minor) with either sector are usually looking
www.canterbury.ac.nz/business
Accounting or Economics provides for strong quantitative skills.
additional opportunities.
/what-can-i-study/finance Taking a double major with
Financial Engineering and
Career opportunities Statistics (or Mathematics) is
If you are intending to major in Finance, you pretty ideal.
Today it would be rare for a person to rise to
are recommended to include maths, statistics,
and modelling in your Year 13 programme.
the position of chief financial officer (CFO) We used techniques learned in
Although some previous study of accounting
without a strong grounding in both Accounting econometrics and data mining
and Finance.
and economics can be useful preparation to help World Vision plan and
for the 100-level courses in these subjects, There are also many other career opportunities allocate their time in schools
for Finance graduates, with typical jobs including
it is not essential to have studied them at
financial analyst, money market and foreign
more effectively. Using tools
secondary school.
exchange dealer, loan analyst, equity analyst, from class in the real world
Students with very good NCEA Level 3 results
(or equivalent standard in another qualification
risk analyst/manager, portfolio manager, allowed us to truly understand
framework) in mathematics, and either
financial planner, investment banker, and how our theoretical knowledge
economics or accounting, may be offered
small‑business manager. is actually applied to
direct entry to 200-level Finance courses at the www.canterbury.ac.nz/careers/students/subjects real problems.’
discretion of the Head of Department.
Department of Economics and Finance Nicholas
T: +64 3 369 3888 Bachelor of Science in Financial Engineering
E: business@canterbury.ac.nz and Statistics
www.canterbury.ac.nz/business Bachelor of Science with Honours
/what-can-i-study/finance in Computational and Applied
Mathematical Sciences

Financial Recommended background Career opportunities
Engineering Previous study of mathematics (calculus and/or
statistics) is recommended at Year 13 level.
UC Financial Engineering graduates will be ready
for the international workplace in the finance
CertSc, BSc (major only) For those who have not studied to that level, industry and related fields mentioned above.
Want to understand the complexity of UC offers Headstart courses in January/February They will also be well prepared for further study
capital markets? How to manage different for students who have not studied mathematics in this field in order to attain positions at higher
types of risks? Interested in achieving a or statistics for some time or who lack technical levels.
challenging technical degree with flexible confidence in their skills. Employers range from private industries, such as
career opportunities? banking, investment, capital industries, security,
Financial Engineering is a cross-disciplinary 100-level courses data analysis, risk management and insurance,
field combining financial and economic theory The first-year, 100-level courses required to to the public sector (eg, Te Pūtea Matua | Reserve
with the mathematical and computational complete a Bachelor of Science majoring in Bank, Kaitohutohu Kaupapa Rawa | Treasury), or
tools needed to design and develop financial Financial Engineering are: regulatory bodies.
products, portfolios, markets, and regulations. Graduates with the cross-disciplinary
Financial engineers manage financial risk, Course code Course title
knowledge and highly technical skills provided
identify market opportunities, design and value COSC 121 Introduction to by this degree will also have openings to
financial or actuarial products, and optimise or Computer Programming a breadth of career opportunities, such as
investment strategies. COSC 131 Introduction to Programming investment brokers, actuaries, statisticians, and
for Engineers data scientists.
Similar to other professional degrees at UC,
COSC 122 Introduction to
the first year of the Bachelor of Science in Past graduates of the contributing departments
Computer Science
Financial Engineering provides a breadth and from related paths of study have been employed
depth of technical skills and knowledge across ECON 104 Introduction to
by Macquarie Capital, Deloitte, BNY-Mellon, First
the key disciplines of finance and economics, Microeconomics
NZ Capital, Te Pūtea Matua | Reserve Bank, Vero
mathematics and statistics, and computer or ECON 199 (a STAR course for secondary
Insurance, Wynyard Security Group, and many
science and software engineering. school students)
government agencies like Kaitohutohu Kaupapa
MATH 102 Mathematics 1A Rawa | Treasury, Tatauranga Aotearoa | Stats NZ,
This broad foundation is then built upon over
or MATH 199 (a STAR course for secondary and Hīkina Whakatutuki | Ministry of Business,
the next two years, where you will undertake
school students) Innovation and Employment.
further core courses across these disciplines
MATH 103 Mathematics 1B
and can choose specialisations within www.canterbury.ac.nz/careers/students/subjects
Financial Engineering. STAT 101 Statistics 1
It is also recommended to consider studying Te Kura Pāngarau | School of Mathematics
Why study Financial Engineering FINC 101 Personal Finance, ACCT 102 and Statistics
at UC? Accounting and Financial Information, INFO 125 T: +64 3 369 2233
• This is the only programme directly targeted Introduction to Programming with Databases, or E: enquiries@math.canterbury.ac.nz
towards this career in Aotearoa New Zealand MATH 120 Discrete Mathematics depending on www.canterbury.ac.nz/engineering
and echoes trends abroad in the UK, USA, and your specialisation interests. /schools/mathematics-statistics
Europe. This subject was created in response
to employer demand and international 200-level and beyond
growth in Financial Engineering and related The broad foundation of the first year is then
fields, like the wider actuarial and business built upon over the next two years, where you
analytics industries. will undertake further core courses across the
• The Bachelor of Science (BSc) major offers disciplines and can choose specialisations
students a cross-disciplinary pathway across within Financial Engineering.
commerce, science, and engineering subjects, Students who wish to major in Financial
and utilises expertise from all these areas of Engineering are required to take a number of
strength at UC. core courses at 200 and 300-level. For the list of
• This programme can be completed full required courses, see the Regulations for the BSc
or part‑time and can be entered in either at www.canterbury.ac.nz/regulations
February or July of each year. /academic-regulations/bsc-229
Forestry Science Research and fieldwork
Te Kura Ngahere | School of Forestry has
Students must also take another 30 points of
100-level courses from any degree at UC in their
BForSc first year.
excellent teaching and research facilities, and
The Bachelor of Forestry Science (BForSc) is a opportunities to work in the field are maximised. The first year is best taken at UC, although
professional degree offered by Te Kura Ngahere UC’s field stations located near Arthur’s Pass it may be taken at any Aotearoa university.
School of Forestry. It is an interdisciplinary and at Kawatiri Westport are used for Forestry Students considering studying the first year
degree that prepares our graduates for teaching and research. of the Bachelor of Forestry Science at another
managing forest resources by combining the Aotearoa university should consult Te Kura
Staff are actively engaged in research on forest
study of core science courses with management, Ngahere | School of Forestry for their course
management, conservation and restoration
commerce, and technologies. selection, which would include the distance
ecology, biology, silviculture, biosecurity,
Forestry Science graduates are highly sought geospatial applications, tree and forest courses FORE 102 Forests and Societies or
after by employers and follow exciting and modelling, tree breeding, economics, harvesting FORE 105 Forests of the World.
rewarding career paths. As a graduate, you and transport, timber processing, and marketing.
can choose a career in commercial forestry,
Te Kura Ngahere | School of Forestry is part of
conservation and restoration ecology, research, In the second year, the main focus is on Forestry
Te Rāngai Pūkaha | College of Engineering, and
or policy and planning in Aotearoa New Zealand courses with some supporting Science subjects.
has strong links with Te Rāngai Umanga me te
or overseas.
Ture | College of Business and Law, and Te Rāngai In the third year, more applied Forestry courses
If you care about the management of natural Pūtaiao | College of Science, which ensures that are introduced. One further subject is taken from
resources and are interested in being part of a students receive a broad education and graduate an option schedule available to both third and
huge worldwide industry, of particular national with a wide range of career options. fourth-year students.
relevance to Aotearoa, then forestry could be
for you. In the fourth year, students are required to take
Recommended background three compulsory courses and three further
The Bachelor of Forestry Science is open to all courses from the option schedule, which can
Why study Forestry Science at UC? students who gain entry to the University. It include a course from another UC degree.
• UC is the only Aotearoa New Zealand is recommended that prospective students Students who attain a good Grade Point Average
university to offer a professional degree take NCEA Level 3 biology and maths, during the second and third years will be invited
in Forestry. including statistics and probability — or the to consider undertaking honours in the final
• UC is located near plantations and native IB/ Cambridge equivalent. year of the degree. Those who choose to do so
forests, which are used for both teaching You may be able to fast-track your degree and must complete a dissertation, which is a piece
and research, and students are able to visit gain direct entry to the second year, if you of original research on a Forestry topic usually
other forestry organisations throughout have excellent Year 13 results or a New Zealand chosen by the student.
the country. Certificate in Science with outstanding merit. www.canterbury.ac.nz/courses
• The BForSc equips you with a broad It is possible to gain exemption for parts of the
understanding of natural resource Forestry examinations with a Bachelor of Science
management issues. During the course of (BSc) or a New Zealand Diploma in Forestry with
your studies you can specialise in a range outstanding merit. The degree is very well supported by employers
of areas including forest engineering, wood in Aotearoa New Zealand. Students are able to
If you have not studied Year 13 statistics, or if
science, forest management, forest science, make employer contacts through New Zealand
you feel you have a weak background in this
forest marketing and finance, commerce, and Institute of Forestry meetings and lectures
subject, you should consider enrolling in a UC
conservation management. on campus. These contacts can also provide
Headstart preparatory course over summer.
summer work opportunities.
• Small class sizes make the BForSc a friendly
and social programme, and the Forestry 100-level courses Some of the biggest companies in Aotearoa
Students’ Society (FORSOC) organises social hire UC graduates and many students obtain
The following are the compulsory courses for the work overseas. Of those choosing to enter the
functions throughout the year. first year of the Forestry Science degree: workforce, the majority of our graduates are
• UC Forestry students may be eligible for employed by the time they finish their degree.
forestry industry scholarships. For more Course code Course title
information, contact Te Kura Ngahere | School FORE 111 Trees, Forests and Possible careers include forest management
of Forestry. the Environment or consultancy (plantation and native forests),
FORE 131 Trees in the Landscape conservation, harvesting, wood processing,
• You may also enrol for both Forestry and planning, policy, forest science, timber appraisal,
Commerce, or Forestry and Science degrees, FORE 141 Forest Growth and
Measurements biosecurity, forest economics, sustainability, and
at the same time (double degree), or land management.
complete a Commerce degree with a strong FORE 151 Commercial Aspects
Forestry emphasis. of Forestry www.canterbury.ac.nz/careers/students/subjects
BIOL 112 Ecology, Evolution and
Conservation Te Kura Ngahere | School of Forestry
STAT 101 Statistics 1 T: +64 3 369 3500
E: forestry@canterbury.ac.nz
www.canterbury.ac.nz/engineering
/schools/forestry

Geography Fieldwork in various places is an integral part
of many courses. The Department operates
CertArts, CertSc, BA, BSc, BCom (minor only), climate stations in Kā Tiritiri-o-te-moana
BSpC (minor only), BYCL (minor only) Southern Alps and elsewhere in Te Waipounamu
Geography is an exciting and distinctive South Island, and utilises the University’s field
discipline at the interface between Science stations at Cass and Kawatiri Westport.
and Arts. Its focus is on putting various types The School hosts Te Tai Whenua o te Hauora
of knowledge together to find innovative GeoHealth Laboratory, University Centre for
solutions to problems faced by society such Atmospheric Research, and also Gateway
as climate change, poverty, sustainability, Antarctica, with staff and graduate students
health, and inequality. We aim to provide often making summer visits to Scott Base
courses and learning that will enable you to in Antarctica.
make a difference in your chosen career path
after university. Recommended background
Studying Geography will allow you to take an
Entry into Geography is open to all students who
informed and analytical view of our changing
are eligible to enter an Aotearoa New Zealand
world, and of your place in it. The relationship
university. The essential background is a
between people and their environment is a key
‘I love the balance between geographical theme, as is the way in which this
lively and enquiring interest in change in
today’s world.
theoretical and hands‑on relationship can be made more sustainable for
work. Forestry science the future. Some experience of geography in Year 12 and
Year 13 will help, but is not strictly necessary.
combines science with This puts Geography at the core of many
Depending on how students wish to develop
management, commerce, and important current debates. For example,
their geographical interests, a background in
technology, which are all geographers are able to examine the issue
science or experience of humanities or social
of climate change holistically by looking
aspects that really interest me. at both the physical factors that affect the
science subjects (eg, languages, history, digital
technologies) can be useful.
What really appealed to me problem and also the human responses to the
challenges created.
was a nice balance between 100-level courses
working inside and in the Why study Geography at UC? Course code Course title
field — completing work in the GEOG 106 Global Environmental Change
• UC is ranked in the top 150 universities in
office, and then also going to the world for Geography (QS World University GEOG 110 People, Places
forest operations to manage Rankings by Subject, 2020). and Environments
and work. • The undergraduate programme is structured The two courses are interrelated, with
The small class sizes also around four curriculum pathways: physical GEOG 106 based on an integrated approach to
understanding the interaction of physical and
make Forestry very appealing. geography, human geography, geographic
human processes, and GEOG 110 focused more
information systems (GIS), and resource and
All of the students and environmental management. on natural and human environments.
lecturers know everyone • Learning through community engagement Each course has three hours of lectures a week.
personally, which is really occurs in a number of courses within There are also regular two-hour lab classes
nice. FORSOC is also a great Geography. It is a key feature of GEOG 110 for exploring the issues raised in lectures in
club where you can meet new Human Geography: People, Process, Place; more detail. These labs are an opportunity to
people studying Forestry and of GEOG 309 Research for Resilient get to know your classmates better, as much
Science and is definitely Environments and Communities, which of the work is group-based, as well as to gain
involves students working with local some experience of practical investigation
worth joining.’ communities to address important in Geography.
real‑world issues.
Boris 200-level and beyond
Bachelor of Forestry Science Resources and fieldwork
There is a range of courses at 200 and 300-level.
Te Kura Aronukurangi | School of Earth and You can specialise within or combine courses
Environment is committed to close contact from the four curriculum pathways (as many
between students and our staff. 100-level students do):
students have their own laboratory, and the
School’s learning centre and computer labs are • physical geography
available to students for quiet study, group work, • human geography
and research. • geographic information systems (GIS)
• resource and environmental management.
There are also options to undertake internships
and research as part of your degree. GEOG 309
Research Methods in Geography is designed to
reinforce study in all of these pathways.
Career opportunities Geology
Recent graduates have found work all over CertSc, BSc, BA (minor only), BCom (minor only),
Aotearoa New Zealand and the world, from BSpC (minor only), BYCL (minor only)
Tāmaki-makaurau Auckland to Melbourne,
Aotearoa New Zealand, on the active margin
California to Antarctica. Many have found careers
of the Pacific with its volcanoes, earthquakes,
in the public service, the tourism industry,
dramatic geomorphology, and 500 million years
private companies dealing with geographic
of geological history, is one of the best places on
information systems (GIS) and global positioning
Earth to study geological processes. Our position
systems (GPS), the police, local authorities, and
in mid-southern latitudes and relative proximity
in education.
to Antarctica means that Aotearoa New Zealand
The Resource Management Act has created a is a key location for climate change research.
lively market for geographers in consultancy
Geologists are directly involved in the
and in regional and local government. Those
monitoring, prediction, and assessment of
who gain technical expertise in areas such as
hazards such as volcanoes, earthquakes,
GIS and remote sensing are also in demand from
landslides, and tsunamis. The geologist has an
both the public and private sectors. In addition,
important role in land planning processes and in
research and policy positions in central, regional,
assessing environmental impact.
and local government are popular. ‘I wanted to study people Geologists have developed one of the most
Some graduates find work overseas for and their interaction with exciting scientific theories of the 20th century —
Manatū Aorere | Ministry of Foreign Affairs and
the environment. I believe plate tectonics — which explains the origin and
Trade, development agencies, and the United
Nations, or in positions that are particularly it is important to have a locations of all the major geological features
people‑focused, like the union movement, good understanding of the and Earth building processes of the planet.
teaching, or personnel, where communication environment so you can Geologists also search for the natural resources
that sustain our technological society, not least
skills are critical. educate the community to of all, water. The construction of buildings,
www.canterbury.ac.nz/careers/students/subjects help them understand the bridges, roads, dams, and reservoirs requires
environmental changes geological expertise.
Te Kura Aronukurangi | School of Earth around them.
and Environment Why study Geology at UC?
T: +64 3 369 0655 I love the feeling of being
• Te Kura Aronukurangi | School of Earth
E: earthandenvironment@canterbury.ac.nz a part of something big! and Environment at UC is one of the top
www.canterbury.ac.nz/science But at the same time never geoscience research departments in the
/schools-and-departments feeling small! The lecturers country and, not surprisingly, we are leading
/earth-and-environment
and staff at the University the world in our studies of earthquakes.
are incredibly approachable First-year students have their own laboratory
making you always feel for practical classes and teaching staff are
readily contactable.
welcome. All around I
constantly feel supported to • Field sciences are a distinctive feature of the
subjects offered at UC and are supported
do my best and achieve as through a range of field facilities at Cass and
much as I can, not just by my Kawatiri Westport. Field studies are carried
peers but also by my lecturers out in the locations and environments around
and tutors.’ these field stations.
• UC is ranked in the top 150 universities in the
Ashley world for Earth and Marine Sciences (QS World
Ngāi Tahu University Rankings by Subject, 2020).
Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science
and Geography
Master of Urban Resilience and Renewal

Recommended background GEOL 240 Field Studies A — Mapping and
GEOL 241 Field Studies B — Field Techniques are
Entry into first-year Geology courses is open to
field studies courses in which students learn
all students who are eligible to enter an Aotearoa
the techniques of geological observation, data
New Zealand university.
collection, and field mapping. Excursions are
There are no specific requirements for starting run to several different locations, including to
first-year studies in Geology and while some Kawatiri Westport on Te Tai Poutini West Coast
knowledge of basic science is preferable, it is of Te Waipounamu South Island where there is a
not essential. All you need is enthusiasm and an modern, well-equipped field station.
interest in the world around you.
The 300-level courses cover a wide range of
topics for the student majoring in Geology.
100-level courses
You can take one, two, or all three of the
100-level courses on offer, depending on Career opportunities
preference. However it is normally necessary to
take and pass two in order to gain entry into A career in Geology offers a very wide
200-level Geology courses. To major in this spectrum of work environments and
subject, students need to take GEOL 111 and one employment opportunities.
of the other two courses. Geology graduates find positions as research ‘Studying Geology has brought
These courses involve lectures and one practical scientists, policy analysts, exploration me to many places outside of
class per week plus one day in the field. geophysicists, mining and exploration campus. I am able to apply
GEOL 113 is an optional first-year course that
geologists, practitioner engineering geologist theories and processes to
with consultancies, natural hazard analysts and
will be of interest to Science and non-Science
consultants, coal and petroleum geologists,
visualise what the environment
students alike.
teachers, GIS specialists, environmental impact was like in the past.
Students should also note that 60 points from
the following subjects at 100-level are required
officers and consultants, hydro-geologists, I have been interested with
seismic interpreters, resource advisors, research
for entry into honours in Geology: Astronomy, technicians, soil technicians and research
the processes and mechanisms
Biological Sciences, Chemistry, Computer assistants, museum curators, and more. involved leading up to an
Science, Geography, Mathematics, Physics,
They are employed in the mining and petroleum earthquake event. I hope to
or Statistics.
industries, national and local government, work in the geotech consulting
Course code Course title planning and conservation organisations, industry, and be able to apply
GEOL 111 Planet Earth: An Introduction university teaching and research, secondary the practical experiences I have
to Geology teaching, museums and science centres, energy learnt from studies.’
companies, consulting and engineering firms,
GEOL 113 Environmental Geohazards
research institutes, and exploration firms. Charles
GEOL 115 The Dynamic Earth System
www.canterbury.ac.nz/careers/students/subjects Bachelor of Science in Geology
200-level and beyond Studying towards a Professional Master of
The six core 200-level Geology courses develop Te Kura Aronukurangi | School of Earth Engineering Geology
and expand on much of the first-year material. and Environment
Important geological principles and techniques T: +64 3 369 0655
are taught here, such as the interpretation of E: earthandenvironment@canterbury.ac.nz
sediments, volcanic processes, how rocks deform www.canterbury.ac.nz/science
in the Earth’s crust, how ancient geological /schools-and-departments
events are dated, and the identification of /earth-and-environment
minerals and rocks using the microscope.
Health Sciences Majors
Environmental Health
Environmental Health
BHSc, BA (not a major or a minor subject), BHSc
Health Education
BSc (not a major subject) The Environmental Health major provides
Māori and Indigenous Health
Health Sciences students are passionate about grounding in the fundamental sciences
Psychology that underpin an understanding of the
getting involved in their communities and
improving the health of the population. We Public Health environmental risk factors that affect health and
promote opportunities for volunteering and Society and Policy wellbeing and the methods used to assess them.
gaining a well-rounded education. This encompasses:
Several BHSc majors start with compulsory
Health Sciences at UC provides students with courses from other subject areas at the 100-level • the geographical distribution of disease
a non-clinical degree and a multidisciplinary eg, Psychology. Double majors are possible for • exposure to key risk factors and methods used
introduction to a range of important health some majors. Individual HLTH courses may also to minimise exposure
issues from genetics, to the health of be taken for inclusion in a BA or a BSc.
• the context of government legislation
populations, evidence-based decision making, www.canterbury.ac.nz/regulations aimed at creating and maintaining
psychology, education, and public policy.
healthy environments.
Many Health Sciences courses may be taken as 200-level and beyond
part of the Bachelor of Health Sciences (BHSc), Career opportunities
Students can continue to study health-related
or included in a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor
courses at 200, 300, and postgraduate‑level. Graduates of the Bachelor of Health Sciences
of Science.
Whether it is looking at technological majoring in Environmental Health will
Why study Health Sciences at UC? interventions, health education, sociology potentially find employment as environmental
behind health and illness, the pros and cons of health officers (requires additional qualification),
• There are many different paths that you can Aotearoa New Zealand’s health system, how to laboratory roles in health laboratories, in
explore at UC, and the good thing about the build resilience, or public and policy issues, there local and national environmental health
BHSc is that it has a wide variety of courses, is broad scope to find an area of health that roles, or progress to postgraduate research in
allowing you to keep your options open and interests you. environmental health science.
learn about lots of different areas before
Students who are not enrolled in the BHSc
Health Education
embarking on your career.
and wish to continue examining national and
• Some of the majors in the BHSc will offer the international health issues can consult the
opportunity for practical placement and skills BHSc
Programme Coordinator for advice on which
development in health-related workplaces. courses they can include in their degree. This major prepares graduates with the
• Te Kura Mātai Hauora | School of Health knowledge, skills, and confidence to work with
www.canterbury.ac.nz/courses individuals and groups to enhance wellbeing.
Sciences is well-equipped for conducting a
wide range of research and projects. They develop specific health education and
Career opportunities pedagogical knowledge to apply in a diverse
• Thanks to involved academic staff, most of range of settings. Experiential learning in a
The health workforce includes a wide variety of
the lecturers know who you are, what your variety of contexts (eg, mental health, sexuality,
clinical roles defined by legislation. There are
interests are, and will look at ways to help you and nutrition) allows students to recognise
also many non-clinical roles that make up about
to achieve your goals. factors that influence health and develop a range
one third of the total health workforce.
• Students who complete the Public Health of strategies to address them.
The undergraduate Health Sciences courses
major for the BHSc will be able to meet the Students engage in debate and critical reflection
will provide an essential foundation for
generic public health competencies and the on a range of contemporary health issues.
those seeking non-clinical health sector
health promotion competencies for Aotearoa. Through this engagement, students develop an
roles. Depending on the major(s) taken,
• UC is ranked first in Aotearoa New Zealand an interdisciplinary non-clinical Health understanding of ethical issues and principles,
for research in Public Health (Te Amorangi Sciences background has high prospects of a respect for the autonomy and choice of both
Mātauranga Matua | Tertiary Education employment in such areas as health promotion, individuals and groups, and competency in
Commission 2018 PBRF assessment). environmental health, health psychology, collaborative and consultative ways of working.
community health, Māori and iwi health,
100-level courses behaviour change, health policy, administration, Career opportunities
health education, health technology Career options for students who major in Health
assessment, and health research. Education include employment in health-related
BIOL 116 Human Biology
HLTH 101 Introduction to Health Studies These courses will also help experienced institutions and agencies such as Community
health professionals to extend their and Public Health (in Nutrition, Sexuality, Health
HLTH 106 Ngā Take, Te Wero:
knowledge and skills, and to prepare for new Promoting Schools, and Mental Health teams),
Māori Health Issues
career opportunities. Drug and Alcohol agencies, Family Planning, the
and Opportunities
www.canterbury.ac.nz/careers/students/subjects Mental Health Foundation, Nutrition Advisories,
HLTH 110 Epidemiology
Red Cross, and teaching Health Education
As well as the core courses HLTH 101, HLTH 106, in secondary schools to a senior NCEA level
Te Rāngai Ako me te Hauora | College (teaching qualification required).
HLTH 110, and BIOL 116, students select a BHSc
of Education, Health and Human
major from the list below:
Development
T: +64 3 369 3333
E: educationadvice@canterbury.ac.nz
www.canterbury.ac.nz/education

Māori and Public Health
Indigenous Health BHSc
BHSc The purpose of the major in Public Health is to
E ngā mana, e ngā reo, nāia te reo pōwhiri ki a produce graduates with knowledge and skills
koutou. Tēnā koutou katoa. in science and health, experience in critical
appraisal and scientific investigation, and an
The purpose of the Māori and Indigenous understanding of values and ethics in health.
Health major is to prepare culturally competent Graduates will have the ability to apply these to
graduates who are able to use, apply, and improving health and wellbeing through disease
integrate Māori, bicultural, and indigenous prevention, health promotion, and health service
knowledge and practices in their chosen health planning, delivery, and evaluation.
and social services related careers.
The major in Public Health aims to:
The holistic Māori view of health and wellbeing
is an important component of the major • provide students with a strong foundation in
that includes knowledge and skills in the health sciences, with detailed knowledge in
following areas: public health;
• Te Ao Tangata — Engaging with Māori: • equip students to meet the Aotearoa

understanding, respect, te reo, interpersonal New Zealand generic competencies for ‘I wanted to work in
public health. This is endorsed by the Health
and cross-cultural communication/dialogue,
Promotion forum to provide foundation
healthcare but not in a clinical
and Māori health-based experiences
knowledge and understanding of Ngā way. I want to work in hospital
• Te Ao Hauora — Working with health Kaiakatanga Hauora mō Aotearoa | Health administration, running
professionals: promoting student’s Promotion Competencies for Aotearoa departments in healthcare
understanding of the multiple disciplines
and roles involved in delivering health
New Zealand; organisations, and working
care to Māori, including clinicians (eg, • provide students with the knowledge and with health policies.
skills to operate effectively in health sector
pharmacists, doctors, physiotherapists, and
organisations (such as district health boards, There are many different
psychologists), the cultural/community/
clinical interface, and interprofessional/ primary care organisations, public health paths that you can go down,
interdisciplinary collaboration units, Māori health organisations, and and the good thing about
• Ngā Ratonga Hauora — Working with health
non‑governmental organisations); the BHSc at UC is that it has
services and health systems: providing • contribute to the health sector workforce a wide variety of courses,
students with a thorough grounding in by preparing students to work as effective which allows you to keep your
members of multidisciplinary teams in the
sociohistorical health developments and
health sector;
options open and learn about
current health system structures, including different areas.’
Māori and iwi community-based health and • contribute to meeting national health
social services. workforce development goals;
Victoria
• provide the required foundation for students
Bachelor of Health Science in Public Health
Career opportunities who wish to undertake postgraduate study in
Policy Analyst, Manatū Ahu Matua | Ministry
Career options for students who major in Māori health-related fields.
for Primary Industries
and Indigenous Health include research and
policy analysis or advice, health promotion, Career opportunities
and community health liaison roles in Students with a Bachelor of Health Sciences
non‑governmental organisations focused on in Public Health will be able to work
health and wellbeing, Māori and iwi health and effectively as members of multidisciplinary
development organisations, District Health teams in the health sector. Examples of career
Boards, and local government. pathways include community development
Students interested in progressing to roles in public health units, district health
postgraduate study will be well prepared as a boards, non‑governmental organisations,
result of this major, particularly in relation to local government, health promoters, public
Māori and Indigenous Studies, and/or Health. health analysts, and a research career in
public health.
Psychology Graduates might also go on to postgraduate
BHSc study to further their specialisation in the field.
See page 49.
Society and Policy Linguistics You must take the following courses in first year
if you intend to major in Linguistics:
BHSc CertArts, CertSc, BA, BSc, BCom (minor only),
• LING 101
The Society and Policy major focuses on the BSpC (minor only), BYCL (minor only)
relationships between health science, health • LING 102 or LING 103.
Linguistics is the scientific study of language.
governance, bioethics, and society. It comprises It addresses questions relating to the structure LING 101 and LING 102 are also prerequisites for
an interdisciplinary core based on sociology of language, how and why languages differ 200-level Linguistics courses.
of health, policy issues in health technology, and change, how humans acquire and process
and health delivery at the local, national, and Language course/s
language, the relationship between language
global levels, together with research training and society, and the systems of speech sounds Linguistics majors need to include one course
in qualitative and quantitative social science that underlie the words and utterances that we in a language other than English (or have
research methods. speak and hear. equivalent language ability). This can be taken
any year during the degree. UC students can
Graduates of the Society and Policy major will For example, studying linguistics can help us choose from: Chinese, French, German, Japanese,
acquire core knowledge and skills relevant to understand how children can easily learn Russian, Spanish, and Te Reo Māori courses.
to health employment and sector-defined to speak both English and te reo Māori, why
competencies. This includes some of the Aotearoa New Zealanders sound different from
Aotearoa New Zealand generic public health 200-level and beyond
Australians, why the words ‘air’ and ‘ear’ rhyme
competencies (PHANZ 2007), and some of for some people but not for others, and why At 200 and 300-level, more specialised courses
the Aotearoa health promotion competencies ‘sweet as’ isn’t just ‘slang’. explore a variety of topics including forensic
(Health Promotion Forum 2012), including linguistics, sociolinguistics, syntax, phonetics
Given the unique nature of language, Linguistics
bioethics competencies that are specific to and phonology, morphology, Aotearoa
is inherently interdisciplinary and bridges
this major. New Zealand English, and the history of English.
the sciences, the social sciences, and the
They will also have in-depth knowledge in an humanities. It has links with Anthropology, LING 215 The Sounds of Speech, LING 216
area of specialisation relating to health policy, cognitive science, Computer Science, Education, Systems of Words and Sounds in Language, and
health geography, bioethics, and social issues Engineering, evolutionary biology, language LING 217 Sentence Structure are the core courses
relating to health. study, neurology, Philosophy, Psychology, and required for anyone to major in Linguistics.
Sociology, among other fields. It is therefore an www.canterbury.ac.nz/courses
Career opportunities ideal complementary field of study.
This major prepares students for positions in Career opportunities
policy analysis, social science research, and the Why study Linguistics at UC?
Linguistics provides the foundation for a wide
development of public policy. It also prepares • UC is ranked in the top 100 universities in range of jobs and careers including teaching,
them for further research in humanities and the the world for Linguistics (QS World University education, translation/interpreting, marketing,
social sciences. Students who graduate from this Rankings by Subject, 2020). publishing, journalism, law, medicine,
programme may go on to postgraduate study in information technology, speech and language
• Many disciplines are represented at UC’s
Health Sciences. therapy, social research, and international
Te Kāhui Roro Reo | New Zealand Institute
If students take the Sociology option at of Language, Brain and Behaviour, where relations. In fact, studying Linguistics will help
300-level, they may also go on to postgraduate researchers study the foundations of language prepare you for any profession that requires
work in Sociology. as an integrated, multimodal, statistical skills in analytical thinking, problem solving,
Those who don’t wish to complete a system operating in a social, physical, and argumentation, critical thinking, data collection
postgraduate degree may look for jobs in physiological context. and analysis, and written and oral expression.
health administration, health policy, and other Naturally, you will also become familiar with
non‑clinical roles within the broad health Recommended background many different languages and cultures, and as a
sector. This major also provides a foundation for Linguistics is not taught in schools, so no result, develop important cross-cultural skills.
graduate clinical degrees. specific school background is needed in order Linguistics is often a training ground for
Examples of career pathways include: to begin it at university. The main requirements those who chose teaching English as a second
• careers in health-related institutions are curiosity and a desire to improve one’s language, which is a popular career and offers
and agencies ability to think and express oneself clearly. Some excellent travel opportunities.
knowledge of a language or languages other www.canterbury.ac.nz/careers/students/subjects
• community development roles in public
than English is desirable but not essential.
health units, district health boards, Māori and
iwi health/development organisations, NGOs, 100-level courses Te Rāngai Toi Tangata | College of Arts
and local government agencies T: +64 3 369 3377
• health policy analysts E: artsdegreeadvice@canterbury.ac.nz
LING 101 The English Language www.canterbury.ac.nz/arts
• postgraduate studies towards a research ENLA 101*
career in health LING 102 Language and Society in
• social and health researchers. ENLA 102* New Zealand and Beyond
LING 103 Basics of Language for
Language Learners
*
Students intending to double major in Linguistics and
English Language must substitute LING 103 for LING 101.

Mathematics • The School is active in supporting and
promoting undergraduate research through
CertArts, CertSc, BA, BSc, BCom (minor only), summer projects and honours dissertations,
BSpC (minor only), BYCL (minor only) with some of our recent budding scholars
Our modern society is underpinned by many heading to Oxford, Harvard, and Yale for
mathematical results and insights. Mathematics postgraduate work.
is a living subject with new ideas, techniques, • UC also has a thriving culture that encourages
and theorems constantly being created, tested, meeting up with like-minded students
and explored. through clubs.
Mathematicians are at the forefront of
breakthroughs in science, technology, and Recommended background
finance. Did you know:
Entry into MATH 101 is open to all students with
• Money is kept secure when using internet entry to the University.
banking protocols based on mathematical
Entry into MATH 102 requires 14 credits at
cryptography and prime numbers.
NCEA level 3 maths. Te Kura Pāngarau | School
• Medical images such as MRI are reconstructed of Mathematics and Statistics offers a choice
using mathematical tools that were first of courses designed to cater for students with
‘I originally did not intend developed in the early 1800s. a range of backgrounds and interests. Detailed
to major in Linguistics, but • The mathematics of wavelet transformations entry recommendations are available at
taking the introductory paper helps us to understand seismic activity, which www.canterbury.ac.nz/engineering
/schools/mathematics-statistics
when I first came to UC may one day assist us with the prediction
of earthquakes.
convinced me that it was the Students who have performed very well in
NCEA Level 3 statistics and/or calculus (or
right subject for me. • Mathematicians can find solutions to
IB/ Cambridge equivalent) may be eligible for
equations that govern the universe to help us
I love learning about understand physical phenomena, without the direct entry into a 200-level Mathematics course.
interesting constructions that need for expensive experiments. UC also offers Headstart summer preparatory
different languages have. I also • Mathematical modelling can help with the courses in January/February for students who
have not studied mathematics or statistics for
get to discover so much about protection of our native flora and fauna.
some time, or who lack confidence in their skills.
my native language, Japanese, Mathematical thought is one of the greatest
www.canterbury.ac.nz/get-started
that I was not aware of as a human achievements, and has been around
/transition/headstart
for over 4,000 years. In all these millennia,
native speaker. Linguistics mathematicians have been one step ahead
makes me want to learn more and are already preparing for the technological 100-level courses
about how the mind works advances of the coming generation.
and the relationship between
MATH 101 Methods of Mathematics
language and thought.’ Why study Mathematics at UC?
• UC is known internationally for its
Komei MATH 103 Mathematics 1B
involvement in Mathematics and Statistics
MATH 120 Discrete Mathematics
Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics and education and research. Several members
Philosophy, and a Bachelor of Arts with of staff have awards for their work in this The core of the 100-level programme consists of
Honours in Linguistics area. Our research expertise underpins our linear algebra and calculus, found in MATH 102*
undergraduate teaching. and MATH 103. MATH 102 is a prerequisite for
• Every year, Te Kura Pāngarau | School of MATH 103. Together, these courses will allow you
Mathematics and Statistics welcomes into almost any 200-level Mathematics course
visiting scholars on the Erskine Fellowship and are necessary for those wishing to major
Programme. Students benefit greatly from in Mathematics.
their teaching and the alternative perspectives MATH 102 is also required or recommended
they offer. for people intending to major in any of several
subjects, including Economics, Statistics, Data
Science, Financial Engineering, and Physics.
Anyone planning to study Engineering will
require the Engineering Mathematics courses
EMTH 118 and EMTH 119.
MATH 120 is an introductory course in discrete
mathematics, a subject that underpins Medicinal Chemistry CHEM 111 Chemical Principles
and Processes
many areas of modern-day science including CertSc, BSc (major only)
CHEM 112 Structure and Reactivity in
cryptography, coding theory, and computational See also Chemistry on page 31. Chemistry and Biochemistry
biology. MATH 120 is required for people
Medicinal Chemistry explores the design Students who have not taken chemistry to
intending to major in Data Science and
and creation of new medicinal drugs for the Year 13 level are also strongly advised to take
Computer Science.
treatment and prevention of illnesses. CHEM 114 Foundations of Chemistry.
*
Students who have not passed a substantial amount of
Year 13 mathematics, or its equivalent, are strongly advised This major will take students through the entire
to enrol in MATH 101 before advancing to MATH 102. lifecycle of creating medicines, from discovering 200-level and beyond
and isolating medicinal agents within natural
200-level and beyond and synthetic sources, through to clinical trials, Course code Course title
ethical and regulatory approvals, and sustainable CHEM 212 Chemical Reactivity
UC offers a wide variety of courses at 200 and
production and sales. CHEM 242 Organic Chemistry
300-level. These include courses in discrete
UC’s programme also includes introductory CHEM 246 Introduction to
mathematics, linear algebra, calculus, differential
courses in business and commercial Medicinal Chemistry
equations, mathematical modelling, and
statistics. opportunities, such as intellectual properties CHEM 281 Practical Chemistry
and patents of new medicines. CHEM 342 Aromatic, Heterocyclic, and
If you are majoring in Mathematics, you need
The pharmaceutical industry is growing globally, Pharmaceutical Chemistry
45 points from selected MATH 200-level courses
and there is a high demand for more medicinal CHEM 346 Contemporary Medicinal
and at least 60 points from MATH 302–394.
chemists to create life-changing medicines. Chemistry
If you are unsure which courses best suit your CHEM 347 Drug Discovery
needs, contact a Student Advisor. Why study Medicinal Chemistry at UC? and Development
It is good to include other subjects at 200-level. CHEM 381 Advanced Synthetic Techniques
• Te Kura Matū | School of Physical and
Popular choices include Chemistry, Computer
Chemical Sciences is equipped with excellent Students in Medicinal Chemistry are not able
Science, Economics, Management, Physics,
facilities, both in undergraduate laboratories to complete a double major with Chemistry,
and Statistics.
and for research work. however with careful planning may complete a
• Students in the later years of the major minor in Chemistry. Contact a Te Rāngai Pūtaiao
will be able to get involved in the School’s College of Science Student Advisor for advice.
Career opportunities research endeavours, with current research
Perhaps the most important quality that a interests focused on the discovery of Career opportunities
Mathematics graduate develops is the ability bioactive molecules for therapies and
Medicinal Chemistry students will have practical
to reason logically and in depth. Mathematics therapeutic agents.
experience in synthetic and organic chemistry,
is a creative, collaborative pursuit. The habits of • UC’s programme has a unique focus on the pharmaceutics, and microbiology, as well as
thought developed by studying Mathematics are bioactivity of Aotearoa New Zealand and non-laboratory skills in project management,
of permanent value. Polynesian flora and fauna, traditional rongoā scientific communication, commercial
Mathematics graduates are highly employable, Māori medicines, and healthcare issues marketing, and collaboration with a variety of
working in computing, finance, commerce, specific to our bicultural community. other scientific and business fields.
insurance, scientific institutions (such as Crown • Final year courses give an introduction to They will find a variety of rewarding roles within
Research Institutes), law, teaching, and many the drug production and business marketing the global pharmaceutical industry, as well as in
other fields. process, preparing students for work in the hospital clinics, private laboratories, biomedical
Employment opportunities are particularly pharmaceutical industry or even patenting companies, Crown Research Institutes,
good for people who combine qualifications their own products. universities, and among many therapeutic
in Mathematics with qualifications in other and healthcare services. Graduates may also
disciplines such as the Physical Sciences, Recommended background be interested in reviewing global compliance
Statistics, Computer Science, Engineering, guidelines and new drug applications, with
Year 13 chemistry study is recommended
Management, and Economics. regulatory bodies such as the US Food and Drug
preparation for first-year students, but for those
www.canterbury.ac.nz/careers/students/subjects who have had minimal preparation in chemistry, Administration (FDA).
we offer CHEM 114 Foundations of Chemistry, an The major will also prepare graduates for further
Te Kura Pāngarau | School of Mathematics introductory Chemistry course. postgraduate research studies in modern
and Statistics Students with outstanding results in NCEA medicine and healthcare.
T: +64 3 369 2233 Level 3 (or IB/Cambridge equivalent) may www.canterbury.ac.nz/careers/students/subjects
E: enquiries@math.canterbury.ac.nz be invited to enter directly into second-year
www.canterbury.ac.nz/engineering Chemistry courses. Te Kura Matū | School of Physical and
Chemical Sciences
100-level courses T: +64 3 369 3100
E: physical-chemical-sciences@canterbury.ac.nz
BIOL 116 Human Biology
BIOL 111 Cellular Biology and Biochemistry /medicinal-chemistry

Philosophy 100-level courses Te Kura Kete Aronui | School of Humanities
CertArts, CertSc, BA, BSc, BCom (minor only), Each course involves two hours of lectures and and Creative Arts
BSpC (minor only), BYCL (minor only) one tutorial a week. A pass in a single 100-level T: +64 3 369 3377
Philosophy course allows you to enrol in any E: artsdegreeadvice@canterbury.ac.nz
Are killer drones immoral? What about genetic
200-level Philosophy course. www.canterbury.ac.nz/arts
engineering? Should rich countries give
/schools-and-departments/philosophy
substantially more in overseas aid? Are there Course code Course title
objective moral truths? Does God exist? Could PHIL 110 Science: Good, Bad and Bogus
we survive death as computer uploads? What PHIL 111 Philosophy, Sex, and Thinking
is consciousness? Can machines think? What is
PHIL 132 God, Mind and Freedom
the difference between science and myth? Why
PHIL 133 Philosophy and Human Nature
do we enjoy art? Is time travel possible? These
are a few of the questions that are studied in UC PHIL 137 Computers, Artificial
Philosophy classes. Intelligence and the
Information Society
Philosophy teaches you how to think about such
PHIL 139 Ethics, Politics and Justice
questions rationally, carefully, and clearly. These
skills are of real value in the workplace, and also
when dealing with more theoretical aspects of 200-level and beyond
other disciplines, including professional subjects There is a broad menu of 200-level Philosophy
such as Law, Nursing, and even Engineering. courses at UC, ranging from Ancient Greek
philosophy to philosophy of cyberspace, from
Why study Philosophy at UC? medical ethics to mathematical logic. A student
• UC offers world-class expertise in specific with no 100-level Philosophy courses but with
areas of Philosophy and a broad-based degree. good results in other appropriate courses can
The Department is a tight-knit group who go enrol in 200-level Philosophy.
the extra mile to help students. At 300-level, courses are usually offered in
contemporary philosophy, history of philosophy, ‘Philosophy is one subject
• The Philosophy degree is flexible, allowing
students to pursue very different pathways. political philosophy, philosophy of religion, that’s never boring. The
This flexibility also allows students majoring mathematical logic, philosophical logic, and courses at UC are extremely
in other subjects to add Philosophy courses to ethics and bioethics. diverse and the assignments
their degree, and this distinctiveness gives an www.canterbury.ac.nz/courses allow for students to research
edge in the job market. whatever niche they’re into.
• Areas of specialisation in Philosophy at UC
include ethics, bioethics, epistemology and The intellectual skills that Philosophy teaches I’d highly recommend the
metaphysics, logic, history of philosophy, lead to success in many different careers. field trips to philosophers
history and philosophy of science and Philosophy graduates are sought after by and non-philosophers alike.
technology, cognitive science and philosophy industry, government, education, and the They’re a great opportunity
of mind, philosophy and foundations financial sector. Many sectors increasingly
to play nerdy board games
of computing, philosophy of artificial require people who can think independently
intelligence, philosophy of language, and and creatively, write clearly, apply logic, solve and discuss some interesting
political philosophy. There are also specialised abstract problems, and communicate precisely. topics.
courses on famous figures such as Plato, This is what Philosophy students learn to do.
Descartes, Wittgenstein, and Turing.
Philosophy teaches you to
Internationally, Philosophy has been recognised view the world critically and
• Philosophy Internships are increasingly as providing excellent preparation for careers in
popular with UC students; these provide a medicine, business, and law.
analytically, which is a skill
chance to hone skills, gain work experience, that can be applied to a range
Recent UC graduates in Philosophy have become
meet potential employers, and build a CV. policy analysts, lawyers, web developers, teachers, of academic and vocational
• UC is ranked in the top 200 universities in the environmental and sustainability advisors, settings. I hope to be a
world for Philosophy (QS World University research managers, popular science writers, high-school teacher, ideally
Rankings by Subject, 2020). claims analysts, video game designers, e-learning teaching philosophy’
executives, engineers, film-makers, doctors,
Recommended background business analysts, publishers, editors, science Rory
journalists, software engineers, technical writers,
Since philosophy is not always taught in schools, Studying towards a Bachelor of Science in
university administrators, and university lecturers.
100-level Philosophy courses at UC are designed Philosophy and Statistics, and a Bachelor of
for beginners. Many of our graduates have gone on to further Arts in English and Psychology
study in Aotearoa New Zealand or overseas. Teacher Aide, Hagley College
Philosophy is for anyone who is intellectually
inquisitive, likes ideas, and likes to think and www.canterbury.ac.nz/careers/students/subjects
explore. It is not just an academic subject but
tackles issues and questions that arise for
everyone. No special academic background is
therefore required.
Physics The Ōtautahi Christchurch Aerospace Strategic
Plan aims to make the city the centre of
Those students who have not gained this
credit standard will be advised to enrol in an
CertSc, BSc, BA (minor only), BCom (minor only), Aotearoa New Zealand’s aerospace technology introductory Physics course, PHYS 111. This
BSpC (minor only), BYCL (minor only) sector by 2025, which will extensively use UC’s course will build a solid foundation before
What type of student might consider a Physics facilities and research programmes, and offer enrolling in the Semester 2 Physics course,
degree? As a child, famous UC alumnus Ernest students internships and other entrepreneurial PHYS 101, thus completing the Engineering
Rutherford was intrigued by seeing a stick opportunities in the industry. Intermediate Year Physics requirements. The
apparently bend when dipped into a farm bucket UC is ranked in the top 250 universities in the second semester Physics course PHYS 102 is
of water; Albert Einstein asked how his face world for Physics and Astronomy (QS World also offered over the summer period.
would appear in a hand-held mirror if he ran at University Rankings by Subject, 2020). Students intending to advance in Physics must
some significant fraction of the speed of light. take MATH 102 Mathematics 1A, MATH 103
A budding physicist may share this fascination Recommended background Mathematics 1B, and COSC 131 Introduction
with and curiosity about the natural world. to Programming for Engineers in their
Certain courses require a strong background
Physics aims to understand the behaviour of in Year 13 physics and calculus. If students first‑year courses.
matter and energy from the scale of subatomic don’t have a strong background in physics and
particles to that of the Universe itself. From calculus, they may need to take both PHYS 111 200-level and beyond
computers to communication systems, Introductory Physics for Physical Sciences The Physics courses beyond first year at UC
architecture to agriculture; modern life is and Engineering and MATH 101 Methods include such topics as: astrophysics, classical
overwhelmingly built using the understanding of Mathematics. mechanics, electricity and magnetism,
of nature that physics provides. electronics, atomic and molecular physics,
Where you start in first year will depend on your
We are currently in an incredibly exciting period secondary school results. See 100-level courses nuclear and particle physics, optics, dynamics
in Physics. The technological advances of the last below for more details. of atmospheres, quantum mechanics,
20 years have had an enormous impact on all relativity, signal analysis, solid state physics,
our lives and almost all of these rely on advances 100-level courses and thermal physics. Students also take a
in Physics. Modern physics provides a framework multivariable calculus course.
We offer Physics courses suitable for four
for understanding — and contributing to — www.canterbury.ac.nz/courses
different purposes:
major advances in technology now and in
the future. • for studying Physics or Astronomy Career opportunities
• for studying Engineering Many of our graduates are employed as
Why study Physics at UC? • for studying Biological or physicists and can be found at Crown Research
UC physicists are currently involved in the Environmental Sciences Institutes, the National Radiation Laboratory,
following exciting projects: • for philosophical or general interest. medical physics departments of hospitals or
universities, and the Meteorological Service,
• building huge laser equipment to study The core first-year Physics courses are offered as
among others.
gravitational waves a sequence. Where you start Physics depends on
how well you have done in NCEA Level 3 physics Some Physics graduates are not employed as
• creating tiny nanoelectronic devices that can
and calculus (or an equivalent background eg, scientists — however, their analytical skills,
act as transistors or sensors
IB/Cambridge or overseas qualifications). numeracy, and all-round thinking ability
• measuring the behaviour of the upper are in demand in many industries. Some of
atmosphere in order to understand Course code Course title
these graduates are snapped up by the IT and
global warming PHYS 101 Engineering Physics electronics industries, but those same skills
• obtaining fundamental theoretical A: Mechanics, Waves, are equally valued by merchant banks, stock
understandings of cosmology and Electromagnetism and brokers, and other financial services companies,
subatomic physics. Thermal Physics as well as by the armed services, police, and
PHYS 102 Engineering Physics B: aerospace industries (including airlines such as
Te Kura Matū | School of Physical and Chemical
Modern Physics and Air New Zealand).
Sciences has many collaborations nationally
Electromagnetism (2)
and internationally that give access to some Teaching, journalism, and science
PHYS 111 Introductory Physics
of the best facilities around the world. For communication also need people with
for Physical Sciences
example, UC is a member of CERN, the Physics training.
and Engineering
enormous particle accelerator centre in Geneva www.canterbury.ac.nz/careers/students/subjects
and also collaborates with the Van der Veer Students with 14 credits of NCEA Level 3 physics
Institute and hospitals on medical imaging and and calculus (or IB/Cambridge equivalent) can Te Kura Matū | School of Physical and
radiation therapy. enrol in PHYS 101, in order to advance into a full Chemical Sciences
second-year Physics or Astronomy programme, T: +64 3 369 3100
or to meet the Engineering Intermediate Year E: physical-chemical-sciences@canterbury.ac.nz
Physics requirements. www.canterbury.ac.nz/science
/physics

Psychology • Te Kura Mahi ā-Hirikapo | School of
Psychology, Speech and Hearing provides
CertArts, CertSc, BA, BHSc, BSc, BCom (minor only), students with modern computer-based
BSpC (minor only), BYCL (minor only) laboratories; excellent digital recording
Psychology is the scientific study of behaviour and editing equipment; an extensive
and associated biological, cognitive, and social library of psychological tests; and
processes in humans and other animals. It is a laboratories for human performance,
rapidly developing field touching on all aspects human robot interaction, animal behaviour
of human life. Advances in neuro-imaging and neuroscience, perception and
and molecular biology are rapidly enhancing cognition, and social, developmental, and
our understanding of how the brain works, applied psychology.
while increasingly complex theories are being • UC has a Psychology Clinic where clinical
developed to understand the behaviour of students receive training, and has working
individuals and groups. Major advances are relationships with Te Poari Hauora o
being made in understanding and treating Waitaha | Canterbury District Health Board,
psycho-pathologies such as anxiety, depression, and Ara Poutama Aotearoa | Department
eating disorders, and addictions. of Corrections, offering opportunities for
Psychology students are trained to: research and clinical internships.
‘I have always been a science
• think independently and critically about
student at heart. I enjoy psychological issues
understanding physical • become knowledgeable about the key
Psychology is presented and taught as a science,
concepts, being able to methods, important findings, and major
but students from both arts and science
rationalise different physical theories of psychology
backgrounds find the study of Psychology an
interesting and worthwhile challenge.
situations, and then explaining • learn how to distinguish genuine findings
to my peers how they work. from implausible and suspect claims
Being able to write clearly and lucidly is
a key skill for psychologists. Increasingly,
Consistent hard work and a • understand modern scientific research Psychology has come to incorporate findings
persevering attitude is key. in psychology. from neuroscience, making some background
In my last year of high school Why study Psychology at UC?
knowledge in biology very useful. Students
use statistical methods in analysing and
I was at a 5-day experience treating research data, meaning a background
• UC is ranked in the top 250 universities in the
attending lectures at UC on world for Psychology (QS World University in statistics is helpful. Competence in
various topics of astrophysics, Rankings by Subject, 2020). mathematics at Year 11 and basic computer
and night observing at the • UC offers a balanced and comprehensive
skills are assumed.
Mount John Observatory. set of courses, excellent opportunities to 100-level courses
After this, I was thoroughly undertake work in experimental psychology,
fascinated by how space and has nationally and internationally Course code Course title
worked and decided to explore recognised postgraduate applied programmes PSYC 105 Introductory Psychology —
in Applied Psychology, Child and Family
it further as a part of my Brain, Behaviour and Cognition
Psychology, and Clinical Psychology (leading
physics study at UC.’ to professional registration as a psychologist).
PSYC 106 Introductory Psychology —
Social, Personality
• UC has more than 25 specialist academic and Developmental
Rosemary
staff offering a diverse range of research and
Bachelor of Science in Astronomy and Physics PSYC 105 is taught in the first semester and
teaching options. With a large number of
Studying towards a PhD in Astronomy PSYC 106 is taught in the second semester.
undergraduate and postgraduate students,
Both PSYC 105 and PSYC 106 include weekly
we seek to foster close working relationships
two-hour laboratory classes. These labs offer
between staff and students. Undergraduate
the opportunity for students to experience
students from 100-level courses onwards
first-hand some of the phenomena discussed
can become involved in research projects
in lectures and the text, and also incorporate
and may make significant contributions to
an introduction to the research methods
the discipline.
and statistics employed in Psychology. Taken
together, the two courses provide a broad
general introduction to Psychology. As the
Department regards them as essential joint
prerequisites for 200-level Psychology courses,
first-year students are required to enrol in
both courses.
200-level and beyond Te Kura Mahi ā-Hirikapo | School of Speech and
At 200 level, courses include: cognition;
developmental psychology; personality;
Psychology, Speech and Hearing
T: +64 3 369 4333
Language Pathology
sensation and perception; social psychology; E: psyc-speech-hear@canterbury.ac.nz BSLP(Hons)
as well as a core course in research design www.canterbury.ac.nz/science Speech-language therapists/pathologists are
and statistics (PSYC 206 Research Design /schools-and-departments professionals educated in the study of human
and Statistics). /psyc-speech-hear communication, how it develops and the many
300-level courses include: biological psychology; differences and difficulties that children and
cognitive psychology; family psychology; health adults experience.
psychology and behavioural change; industrial Speech-language therapists/pathologists work
and organisational psychology; learning and in preschools and schools with children and
behavioural analysis; judgement and decision students who have difficulty communicating and
making; environmental psychology; plus an learning. This includes supporting children who
advanced course in research methods. stutter, have autism, or have a voice disorder.
For a major in Psychology, four courses Speech-language therapists also work with
(including PSYC 206) are required at 200-level. infants born prematurely and provide services for
In addition, to be eligible to enter postgraduate adults who have lost the ability to communicate
programmes in Psychology (eg, Applied or swallow effectively due to stroke, degenerative
Psychology, Child and Family Psychology, and disease, brain injury, or cancer.
Clinical Psychology), students must have passed
certain 300-level courses. Why study Speech and Language
www.canterbury.ac.nz/regulations Pathology at UC?
BA or BCom students may wish to complete • The Speech and Language Pathology
a minor in Psychology. This requires passing programme at UC is Aotearoa New Zealand’s
PSYC 105 and PSYC 106 and a further most established, having trained a
45 points in advanced PSYC courses (200 and majority of the country’s speech-language
300-level courses). ‘A highlight of studying therapists/ pathologists. The UC degree was
www.canterbury.ac.nz/courses psychology was that I took the first in the country to be accredited by Te
an elective paper about the Kāhui Kaiwhakatikatika Reo Kōrero o Aotearoa
Career opportunities sociology of gangs. We got New Zealand Speech-language Therapists’
Psychologists have a unique mix of skills. As to meet the president of Association (NZSTA), the organisation that
sets quality standards for speech-language
well as a basic knowledge about people, as the Hastings Mongrel Mob. therapy courses in Aotearoa.
individuals and in groups, they are required Our lecturer arranged for
• As a hands-on qualification, it will provide
to have excellent writing and communication the whole crew to come into clinical experience working with clients of
skills, the ability to analyse and understand our classroom. It was a bit all ages. There are eight clinics on campus
quantitative data, and a critical and objective
way of approaching problems.
intimidating but they seemed and you will also go on placement to
alright. It made you realise speech‑language therapy clinics at hospitals,
Psychology graduates hold research and policy
analyst positions in government departments that they’re real people, with schools, and other facilities nationwide.
There are also opportunities for overseas
and other large public sector organisations, as families. They’re not just the clinical placements.
well as positions of responsibility in a variety “bad guys”.’
of settings, including many private sector • Te Kura Mahi ā-Hirikapo | School of
Psychology, Speech and Hearing has 12
businesses. Many graduates are employed in Because I’m from full‑time staff and is a national resource
public relations; teaching and training; district Christchurch, at first I centre for information and continuing
health boards; the New Zealand Defence
Forces; Ara Poutama Aotearoa | Department
thought I’d want to get away professional education in communication
of Corrections; and in social service agencies from the family for a bit. But sciences and disorders. Each year the
such as employment services, social welfare, I’ve realised that UC is an Department welcomes a number of
distinguished scholars from around the
counselling services, and health promotion. awesome campus and now I’m world, including Erskine Fellows who lecture
Further specialist opportunities open up for really glad I stayed! and conduct collaborative research in
those who have completed postgraduate the Department.
training in Applied Psychology, Child and Family Zac
Psychology, and Clinical Psychology (leading Bachelor of Science in Psychology
to professional registration as a psychologist). Master of Science in Psychology
Clinical psychologists work with individuals
and their families where there are difficulties in
adjustment and coping.

Recommended background The professional years
Entry to the Intermediate Year of study Entry into the First Professional Year
(first‑year) is open to all students eligible to enter Students are selected on the basis of academic
the University. The recommended preparation merit (normally a B+ or better average)
for the Intermediate programme is a science and fluency in spoken and written English.
background to at least Year 13 and work Relevant work experience with people who
experience, including visits to meet people with have communication disorders may also be
different speech and language abilities. considered when selection decisions are made.
A good level of English and any prior knowledge Applications for entry for the First Professional
of languages eg, te reo Māori, is also useful. Year close on 1 October.
Application forms are available from
100-level courses
www.canterbury.ac.nz/science/schools-and-
The first year of the BSLP(Hons) is called the departments/psyc-speech-hear/undergraduate-
Intermediate Year. Entry to the professional years study and intending applicants should contact
is limited and selection is made at the end of the the BSLP Programme Coordinator at least a
Intermediate Year. month before the closing date. Late enrolments
The Intermediate Year has three compulsory will be considered if places are still available.
courses and four recommended courses. They
‘I chose UC since it is known
If a student is unsuccessful in gaining a place
may be taken in one full-time year of study or worldwide to provide quality in the First Professional Year, all courses passed
accumulated over more than one year. It may be education and support for its can normally be credited to another degree.
possible to take some, but not all, components students, to ensure that we Te Rāngai Pūtaiao | College of Science Student
of the Intermediate Year at other universities — if graduate as therapists with Advisor is available to advise students on
you are intending to do this you should seek
not only theoretical knowledge their options.
approval of your course of study from Te Rāngai
Pūtaiao | College of Science Student Advisor. but plenty of valuable What do the professional years look like?
The compulsory first-year courses are:
hands‑on experience. In the First Professional Year (second year
Course code Course title I have experienced working of study), students take courses in speech
SPSC 161 Anatomy and Physiology with adults with intellectual and language development and disorders,
evidence‑based practice, clinical linguistics,
for the Speech, Hearing and disabilities who use and audiology. They are also introduced to the
Swallowing Mechanism augmentative and alternative observation and assessment of individuals
STAT 101 Statistics 1 communication (AAC) devices with communication difficulties and the
Plus one course from HLTH 106, MAOR 165,
to communicate, and have distinguishing characteristics of the major types
SCIM 101/MAOR 172, TREO 110, or TREO 111.
also had the opportunity to of communication disorders.
Good options for first-year courses include: meet and build rapport with In the Second Professional Year (third year
Course code Course title adults with aphasia. I have of study), students continue studying
different types of communication disorders,
SPSC 113 Introduction to also worked with adult stroke predominantly those of neurogenic origin,
Communication Disorders patients at the Christchurch conduct applied research in clinical settings
SPSC114 The Science of
hospital who had swallowing and gain practical experience with clients. They
Human Communication
problems. Last year I engaged work with practising therapists and complete
200-level and beyond with primary and pre-school coursework in education and medical settings.
children through observations. In the Third Professional Year (fourth year of
The one-year Intermediate programme is study), more time is spent on research and
followed by three full-time years of specialised Here I am, ready to take on taking responsibility for the assessment of
professional training — the professional years. the challenges and exciting clients and the planning, management, and
Entry to the First Professional Year is limited
adventures that await me on evaluation of therapy programmes.
(see below). In the professional years, students
complete coursework covering a wide variety this BSLP journey!’ Fieldwork
of topics in normal and disordered aspects of Practical work is introduced from the second
speech, language, swallowing, and hearing. The Naomi
year of study. This fieldwork accounts for about
academic coursework is taken in combination Studying towards a Bachelor of Speech and 25% of the year’s work in the second year, 30%
with fieldwork, which is an important Language Pathology with Honours in the third, and 50% in the final year. Students
component of the professional years. have the opportunity to undertake work with
practising therapists and people of all ages and
backgrounds in a variety of settings, including
preschools, schools, hospitals, and clinics in
Ōtautahi Christchurch and throughout Aotearoa.
Career opportunities Statistics Why study Statistics at UC?
The speech-language therapy/pathology CertArts, CertSc, BA, BSc, BCom (minor only), • Te Kura Pāngarau | School of Mathematics
profession offers a range of career opportunities. BSpC (minor only), BYCL (minor only) and Statistics welcomes visiting scholars on
Graduates are highly employable as clinicians the Erskine Fellowship Programme. Students
We are increasingly becoming a data-driven
both in Aotearoa New Zealand and overseas. benefit greatly from their teaching and the
society with advances in technology and the
As a graduate of UC’s BSLP(Hons) programme, alternative perspectives they offer.
accumulation of massive data in many fields.
you will be able to work in a variety of settings. Statistics is the profession associated with • The School is active in supporting and
You can work with children who have autism or making meaningful sense of data. Statistics is promoting undergraduate research through
language delays in preschools and schools or a rapidly advancing science with many avenues summer projects and honours dissertations,
with elderly stroke patients in a large hospital open for study and work. These range from with some of our recent budding scholars
or nursing home. You can be an entrepreneur, statistical theory to its application in biology, heading to Oxford, Harvard, and Yale for
developing and marketing new communication medicine, the social sciences, engineering, postgraduate work.
devices and tests, or building your own private physics, and economics. In fact, there are • Here at UC, we have a thriving culture that
practice. With further postgraduate study, you few disciplines that do not use statistics in encourages meeting up with like-minded
can teach at a university, conduct research in a some form. students through clubs.
scientific laboratory, or be an administrator.
Modern statisticians are being asked to develop • UC has been recognised internationally for our
Perhaps best of all, you can combine several new tools and techniques to deal with problems teaching of statistics to first-year students.
of these to establish a challenging and in areas from business management to biology.
satisfying career that improves the quality New insights are also being developed in the Recommended background
of life for children and adults who experience more traditional areas of physical science
communication difficulties. and engineering. All this activity leads to Entry into the 100-level Statistics course is open
new applications of statistics, as well as to all students with entry to the University.
new theoretical work on the structure of the Logical thinking, a flair for numbers, curiosity,
statistics involved. and the ability to live with uncertainty are
Te Kura Mahi ā-Hirikapo | School of the qualities that combine to make a good
Psychology, Speech and Hearing Statistics can be used to answer some statistician. In school, it is important to do
T: +64 3 369 4333 very important scientific, social, and as well as possible in Year 13, particularly in
E: psychology@canterbury.ac.nz commercial questions. The challenge in statistics and/or calculus.
www.canterbury.ac.nz/science statistics is to use appropriate logic, apply
the correct methodology, and interpret the Students who have performed very well in
results accurately. Year 13 statistics and/or calculus may be eligible
/psyc-speech-hear
for direct entry into a 200-level Statistics course.
Some projects involving statisticians include:
• measuring the rate that cystic fibrosis 100-level courses
develops in lung tissue
• describing the spatial distribution of wood
fibre lengths in trees STAT 101 Statistics 1
• monitoring endangered animals to detect The introductory Statistics course STAT 101

critical rates of decline is designed to provide students with a solid
• measuring the impact of government policy background in statistics, critical thinking, and in
on education the use of computers. Students use computers
to graph and analyse data. Even if you are not
• estimating the working life of mechanical majoring in Statistics, learning how to use Excel
equipment before it requires repair spreadsheets will still be a very useful part of
• measuring the extent to which participation your education at UC. This course is taught using
in group-therapy anger-management sessions a novel approach, with fewer classroom-style
reduces the chance of re-offending. lectures and more computer-based learning
A large number of students benefit from taking through online tutorials. There is a strong
an introductory course in Statistics because it is emphasis on using computers to work with data.
used in so many subjects, including Engineering, Student feedback on this approach to learning
Physics, Data Science, Psychology, Forestry has been very positive.
Science, Geography, and Management. If you are planning to major in Statistics, it
is recommended that you take STAT 101 (or
DATA 203 in your second year) depending on
which degree you wish to obtain — see the
regulations for the Bachelor of Arts and the
Bachelor of Science.

Five 200-level courses are offered, covering a
range of topics from data analysis through
to inference and probability. If you are
majoring in Statistics, you need three courses
from STAT 201–294 and four courses from
STAT 310–394; MATH 103 (or MATH 199, a STAR

course only available to secondary school

students) or DATA 203 is also required.
If you are unsure which courses best suit your
needs, contact a Student Advisor. It is good to
include other subjects at 200-level. Popular
choices include Mathematics, Management,
Economics, Physics, Chemistry, and
Computer Science.
Career opportunities ‘I had no experience in coding

Statistics is an integral part of many industries, before taking STAT 221, but
management, and scientific research it really encouraged me to
programmes. Statistics demands the ability explore, think and learn in a
to use analytical techniques, statistical different way.
methods, and information technology for the
manipulation and interpretation of information. UC has diverse students,
There is a growing demand for statisticians and majoring in different
biometricians (people who conduct research and subjects, so there are many
advise on experimental design, data collection,
and data analysis in biology).
personalities. I really
enjoy interacting with
Many of our graduates are employed by
Tatauranga Aotearoa | Stats NZ as statisticians,
different people.’
and in other organisations as research officers,
analysts, and statistical programmers. Crown Caleb
Research Institutes also employ a large number Bachelor of Science in Mathematics
of statisticians, particularly biometricians. Other and Statistics
graduates are employed in the financial sector Statistical and Data Analyst, Tatauranga
and by insurance companies, and industrial and Aotearoa | Stats NZ
commercial companies. Many large companies
employ statisticians to deal with the increasing
demand for the collection and interpretation
of data.
Many other jobs, while not requiring people
with a degree in Statistics, need employees
with a working knowledge of statistics, in
particular competence in using statistical
software packages.
Te Kura Pāngarau | School of Mathematics

and Statistics
T: +64 3 369 2233
E: enquiries@math.canterbury.ac.nz
www.canterbury.ac.nz/engineering
Planning your degree
Congratulations on There is no right or wrong way to decide what
to study. The most important thing is to follow
Ready to start?
choosing a career in your interests. For inspiration and guidance, talk
1. Search courses and qualifications:
science. The next step to your teachers, careers advisors, UC staff or
people you know who are working in science. 2. Explore subjects you enjoy or might be
is to decide what area of Think about the problems you’d like to solve or interested in:
science you want to study. areas you’d like to work in. www.canterbury.ac.nz/study/subjects
Have a look at the degrees outlined in this 3. Match your subject choices with the degree
brochure and look at all the subjects on offer. or degrees that delivers them.
If you’re still not sure, don’t worry — get in 4. Get in touch with a UC Student Advisor for
touch with our Student Advisors. They can work extra help and advice.
through the options with you and answer any
5. Enrol in your degree:
questions you might have. If you already have a
www.canterbury.ac.nz/enrol
career in mind they can help you find the ideal
degree and subjects to achieve your goals.
If you like this subject …You might like to study these subjects at university*
at school…
Antarctic Studies, Biochemistry, Biological Sciences, Chemistry, Geology, Medicinal Chemistry, Physics, Psychology,
Biology
Water Resource Management, Environmental Science, Speech and Language Pathology
Physics, Mathematics, Chemistry, Computer Science, Astronomy, Physics, Statistics, Biochemistry, Economics,
Calculus
Financial Engineering
Biological Sciences, Water Resource Management, Environmental Science, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Geology, Physics,
Chemistry
Medicinal Chemistry
Classics and history Philosophy, Economics
Earth and space science Geology, Geography, Astronomy, Environmental Science, Water Resource Management, Physics, Antarctic Studies
Economics, accounting,
Economics, Statistics, Mathematics, Finance, Computer Science, Financial Engineering, Forestry Science, Data Science
and business studies
English Philosophy, Linguistics, Speech and Language Pathology
Geography, Antarctic Studies, Biological Sciences, Geology, Water Resource Management, Environmental Science,
Geography
Economics
Languages Computer Science, Linguistics, Speech and Language Pathology
Astronomy, Antarctic studies, Audiology, Biochemistry, Biological Sciences, Data Science, Environmental Science,
Mathematics
Financial Engineering, Geology, Mathematics, Physics, Psychology, Statistics, Water Resource Management
Astronomy, Biochemistry, Biological Sciences, Chemistry, Computer Science, Geology, Mathematics, Philosophy,
Physics
Statistics, Physics
Social studies Psychology, Geography, Philosophy, Economics, Statistics
Statistics Biology, Data Science, Physics, Mathematics, Geography, Statistics, Psychology, Computer Science, Economics
Te Reo Māori and
Environmental Science, Biological Sciences, Astronomy, Geography, Medicinal Chemistry
Te Reo Rangatira
*
For a full list of UC Science subjects, go to www.canterbury.ac.nz/science/subjects

Frequently asked questions
Who can help me with my • Te Waka Pākākāno | Office of the AVC Māori, What can I do if I don’t have a
degree questions and Pacific and Equity can support you and your background in Science?
whānau through a wide number of initiatives,
general questions? from enrolment right through to graduation. UC offers a number of courses designed to bring
You can make contact with a Student Advisor you up to speed. In the month before the start
• The Pacific Development Team supports of Semester 1, Headstart courses are offered
from Te Rāngai Pūtaiao | College of Science, or Pasifika students and is here to boost your
if you are a Māori student, a Kaiurungi from in key areas including Mathematics, Statistics,
student experience, both academically Chemistry, and Physics, as well as a general
Te Waka Pākākāno | Office of the AVC Māori, and socially.
Pacific and Equity. The Student Advisor or academic skills course.
Kaiurungi are able to help with degree planning • Student Care Advisors offer life skills
and subject combination questions, and refer training and one-to-one practical advice I’m only interested in studying one
you to other UC departments and services. for anyone dealing with social, cultural, or subject. Can I do this?
personal concerns.
As your first year of study requires up to eight
What other support is available www.canterbury.ac.nz/support individual courses, you must take more than
for me at UC? one subject. We recommend taking the required
Science courses in your preferred major or minor subject,
We are committed to helping you thrive and and preferably in another major subject as well
succeed with a wide range of support services: (in case you change your mind or wish to study
I haven’t studied some science subjects
• Te Pokapū Pūkenga Ako | Academic at school (eg, chemistry, geography). a double major). There will be further spaces in
Skills Centre can help you hone your Can I start these subjects at university? your timetable, so we recommend looking at
assignment, essay, presentation, and exam subjects that interest you. As you progress into
preparation skills. You can study some subjects in a BSc without 200 and 300-level courses you will be able to
any previous knowledge; however, we strongly choose more courses in your subject to give you
• If you have a learning difficulty, mental
recommend you have at least a good grounding greater knowledge in that area.
health issues, physical impairment, or
in numeracy. Mathematics, Physics, and
other condition that may affect your study There are subjects that are complementary —
Chemistry all offer Semester 1 introductory
(including temporary ones), Te Ratonga you should talk to Liaison or the Student Advisor
courses, which will allow a pathway into
Whaikaha | Equity & Disability Service (EDS) for help on this.
advancing courses.
can assist you. www.canterbury.ac.nz/science
www.canterbrury.ac.nz/engage
/school-resources/liaison
Can I do a double major in a BSc? How
long will this take?
Yes, it is possible to do a double major and your
first year will be flexible enough to keep this
option open. Most majors can be completed
within the standard three years; however, some
double major combinations might take a little
longer. You can also choose to take one of your
preferred subjects as a minor instead.
Forestry Science
What career opportunities are available

to UC Forestry Science graduates?
The degree is very well supported by employers
in Aotearoa New Zealand. Students are able to
make employer contacts through New Zealand
Institute of Forestry meetings and lectures
on campus. These contacts can also provide
summer work opportunities.
Some of the biggest companies in Aotearoa
hire UC graduates and many students obtain Health Sciences
To make an appointment, please contact:
work overseas. Of those choosing to enter the T: +64 3 369 3333
workforce, the majority of our graduates are Can I study some Health courses E: educationadvice@canterbury.ac.nz
employed by the time they finish their degree. within another degree? www.canterbury.ac.nz/education
Possible careers include forest management It will depend on what degree you are studying /student-advice-and-forms
or consultancy (plantation and native forests), but many degrees do give you the opportunity
conservation, harvesting, wood processing, to choose elective courses from outside your
planning, policy, forest science, timber appraisal, specialisation area. For example, many students
Speech and Language Pathology
biosecurity, forest economics, sustainability, and choose to do a course on nutrition or strength
land management. and conditioning. Once you are enrolled at UC, How many places are there in the
check with your student advisor to see what Speech and Language degree?
possibilities you may have. Entry into the first year (called the ‘Intermediate
Year’) of the degree is open to anyone who gains
Te Kura Ngahere | School of Forestry Who should I contact for advice on University Entrance. Students apply for a place
T: +64 3 369 3500 the Bachelor of Health Sciences? in the professional years of the degree, which is
E: forestry@canterbury.ac.nz Te Rāngai Ako me te Hauora | College of based on your first-year grades. Places in First
www.canterbury.ac.nz/engineering Education, Health and Human Development Professional Year are limited to 40 students.
/schools/forestry Student Advisors can help you with:
What happens if I’m not accepted into
• part-time enrolment
the second year of the Speech and
• transfer of credit from other Aotearoa Language degree?
New Zealand tertiary institutions
The courses in the first year of the Bachelor of
• cross-credit Speech and Language Pathology with Honours
• transferring between qualifications degree can all be converted into a Bachelor of
• workload Arts or Science majoring in Psychology and/or
Linguistics. There are also options to transfer the
• explaining your course options. courses into various majors within the Bachelor
of Health Sciences.

Whakapā mai | Contact us
Te Rāngai Pūtaiao Useful UC links UC contact
College of Science T: +64 3 369 3999
Enrol
T: +64 3 369 4141 Freephone in NZ: 0800 VARSITY (827 748)
www.canterbury.ac.nz/enrol
E: collegeofscience@canterbury.ac.nz E: info@canterbury.ac.nz
www.canterbury.ac.nz/science Fees AskUC Chat is available between
www.canterbury.ac.nz/get-started/fees 8am–5.15pm Monday–Friday
Student advisors (except NZ public holidays).
Code of Practice
Postgraduate: www.canterbury.ac.nz
www.canterbury.ac.nz/support/code
T: +64 3 369 4117
E: sciencepgadvice@canterbury.ac.nz Clubs and Societies UC social media
Undergraduate: www.canterbury.ac.nz/life/studentlife/clubs
facebook.com/universitycanterbury
T: +64 3 369 3858
E: scienceugadvice@canterbury.ac.nz Support Services
www.canterbury.ac.nz/support
instagram.com/ucnz
UC Science social media Te Rōpū Takawaenga | Liaison Office
www.canterbury.ac.nz/engage twitter.com/ucnz
facebook.com/ucscience
/school-resources/liaison
Te Rōpū Rapuara | UC Careers snapchat.com/add/uc.nz

instagram.com/ucscience
youtube.com/UniversityCanterbury
twitter.com/UCNZscience Te Waka Pākākano
www.canterbury.ac.nz/support/akonga-maori
linkedin.com/school
youtube.com/UCScienceOutreach UC Science Brochures /university-of-canterbury
www.canterbury.ac.nz/science/brochures
linkedin.com/showcase/uc-science UC Pasifika Proud supporters of
www.canterbury.ac.nz/support/pasifika
Whare Hauora | UC Health Centre

www.canterbury.ac.nz/healthcentre
Emergency
www.canterbury.ac.nz/support
/emergency
On campus
0800 823 637 or (03) 364 2111
Police, fire, or ambulance

111
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2022

Ngā Kai o Roto | Contents

2 For the most up-to-date information, please check our website.

Recommended preparation Minors Conjoint degrees

4 For the most up-to-date information, please check our website.

All students must meet University Entrance requirements or their equivalent.

6 For the most up-to-date information, please check our website.

UC Science graduates are • combines mātauranga Māori and scientific

verify this. • studies and identifies toxins and properties

8 For the most up-to-date information, please check our website.

for many reasons — also interested in medicine and understand how

developmental delays, or Real-world experience

Our research centres

Compulsory Major Courses from Science

Te Rāngai Pūtaiao | College of Science

In 2019, LinkedIn ranked

10 For the most up-to-date information, please check our website.

environmental issues Year 3

we face — in Aotearoa ENVR

Science (BForSc) is Year 1

offered by Te Kura Year 2

for managing forest Year 4

Small classes and field trips make for an

12 For the most up-to-date information, please check our website.

graduates are using their Year 3

and beyond. Compulsory Major Other courses from Health Sciences

Students who successfully complete the

14 For the most up-to-date information, please check our website.

Science is by nature an Conjoint degrees More information

Study Science at UC Interdisciplinary

Applied learning Student support Purpose-built

16 For the most up-to-date information, please check our website.

‘Studying science has not only

18 For the most up-to-date information, please check our website.

‘One of the things that

20 For the most up-to-date information, please check our website.

‘All the fresh new buildings

‘I realised that Geography

22 For the most up-to-date information, please check our website.

‘UC provided the courses I

‘I enjoyed the collegial

24 For the most up-to-date information, please check our website.

‘I really enjoyed the campus,

Aratohu Kaupapa | Subjects

you’ll need to choose one 32 Computer Science 48 Physics

26 For the most up-to-date information, please check our website.

28 For the most up-to-date information, please check our website.

100-level courses Career opportunities

30 For the most up-to-date information, please check our website.

32 For the most up-to-date information, please check our website.

Recommended background Department of Economics and Finance

34 For the most up-to-date information, please check our website.

36 For the most up-to-date information, please check our website.

38 For the most up-to-date information, please check our website.

40 For the most up-to-date information, please check our website.

42 For the most up-to-date information, please check our website.

• Te Ao Tangata — Engaging with Māori: • equip students to meet the Aotearoa

44 For the most up-to-date information, please check our website.

46 For the most up-to-date information, please check our website.

48 For the most up-to-date information, please check our website.

50 For the most up-to-date information, please check our website.

• monitoring endangered animals to detect The introductory Statistics course STAT 101