University of Waikato

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Subjects

We offer an exciting range of subjects, and provide flexible degree structures to shape the qualification that will keep your skills in demand.

120 subjects found

  • Accounting

    Studying accounting is your pathway to working with clients to help them make their businesses more profitable and successful, and reduce their exposure to financial risk. With accounting you'll gain the skills you need to become a trusted business adviser and make strategic financial decisions for organisations. A qualification in accounting can lead you into all kinds of industries, such as agribusiness, manufacturing or entertainment.

  • Adult Learning

    The Adult Learning programmes equip graduates with the knowledge to work alongside adults in New Zealand tertiary institutions (adult and community education agencies, polytechnics, private training establishments, wananga and universities).

  • Agribusiness

    In a small country like New Zealand, successful agribusiness relies on understanding how to manage complex value chains within competitive global markets. Studying Agribusiness at Waikato University puts you in the heartland of New Zealand's leading agriculture-based export industries, learning from experts.

  • American Studies

    American Studies covers not just the US but the whole of the American continent, from Canada to Chile. It offers an investigation into the world’s most powerful nation and a variety of different cultures.

  • Animal Behaviour

    Knowledge of animal behaviour is important for anyone interested in areas such as conservation biology of native birds, the control of pest species, evolutionary biology, population ecology and the efficient and humane management of farm animals.

  • Anthropology

    Anthropology is the study of human life. At Waikato we take you on an exploration of socio-cultural anthropology, the investigation of the immense richness and diversity of human social and cultural life.

  • Applied Computing

    Applied Computing at the University of Waikato gives you the practical technological skills to provide effective business solutions.

  • Applied Linguistics

    Are you interested in human language and the way it has been formed and adapted throughout civilisation? Study Applied Linguistics at Waikato and you'll explore the complex world of language theories and methods, and the solution of practical problems associated with language.

  • Applied Physics

    A minor in Applied Physics will provide you with a broad introduction to physics principles and concepts, and is designed to strengthen and broaden a subject major in Earth Sciences, Biology or Chemistry.

  • Biochemistry

    Biochemistry – the study of life in chemical terms – is one of the fastest growing areas of modern science. You'll learn about the fundamental molecules of life – proteins, lipids, carbohydrates and nucleic acids – seeking to understand how they interact in living organisms, both in health and disease.

  • Biological Sciences

    As a Biological Sciences student at the University of Waikato you will benefit from our practical and innovative approach to teaching, as well as one-on-one time with world-renowned researchers.

  • Biotechnology

    Biotechnology applies science and engineering to biological systems for developing useful products and technologies. It touches every aspect of modern life and is crucial in feeding, fuelling and healing the world, both now and for future generations.

  • Chemical and Biological Engineering

    The Chemical and Biological Engineering programme at the University of Waikato combines the traditional discipline of chemical engineering with new and emerging specialisations in engineering to produce graduates who are better equipped to solve the world’s sustainability challenges.

  • Chemistry

    Chemistry is fundamental to our understanding of all branches of science and for a wide range of industries.  A degree in Chemistry from the University of Waikato means you'll gain an excellent grasp of Chemistry theory, supported by a strong emphasis on practical expertise.

  • Chinese

    Chinese at Waikato involves the study of Modern Standard Chinese (Mandarin) and the history, culture and society of ancient and present day China.

  • Civil Engineering

    The world needs competent and trained Civil Engineering professionals to address the increasing challenges in urban and rural facilities and infrastructure.

  • Coastal Processes

    Examine the processes and factors that control coastal landforms, resources and hazards, evaluate human effects, and identify and assess options to avoid or mitigate adverse impacts.

  • Communication Design

    Communication Design is concerned with visually communicating messages and ideas across multiple media platforms. As a communication designer, you will work to combine type and image to attract an audience's attention and deliver your client's messages.

  • Computer Graphic Design

    Studying Computer Graphic Design at the University of Waikato makes you highly sought after, with a unique combination of design and coding skills. You will be able to meet the increasing demand for designers who can work in a variety of media, such as websites, apps, gaming and virtual reality.

  • Computer Science

    Computer Science is rapidly changing the world we live in. Studying Computer Science at the University of Waikato, you'll learn about software systems and how people and computers interact. You’ll also learn how to create new software, and ensure it's easy for people to use.

  • Creative Practices

    Are you looking to expand your mind and stimulate your creativity with a practical and versatile field of study? Creative Practices at Waikato focuses on the active arts and will provide you with the exciting opportunity to explore the creative and the performing arts including music, Māori creative practices, dance and theatre.

  • Creative Technologies

    Are you interested in the complex interaction between music and computing in the digital age? Creative Technologies at Waikato fuses multimedia practices with the fast-paced world of digital communications, mobile and networking.

  • Creative Writing

    Being a great writer will set you up for success in any career path. Study Creative Writing at Waikato and hone your communication skills to develop professionally, or start on a whole new journey as an expert writer.

  • Data Analytics

    Enhance productivity and help make more informed decisions, while using your Computer Science and Statistical analysis skills, through Data Analytics.

  • Design Media

    You'll learn how to make eye-catching graphic/media design experiences which drive products and bring satisfaction to viewers when you study Design Media at Waikato. Design Media is all about learning-by-doing and integrating media in new ways.

  • Development Studies

    The Development Studies programme will enable you to explore and critically examine recent tensions, concepts, models, policies, processes and outcomes of 'development' from the perspectives and experiences of indigenous peoples.

  • Digital Business

    Looking for a sought-after blend of business and IT skills? Gain expertise in the latest digital technologies and pursue a career as a tech-savvy manager, helping companies to improve their business performance.

  • Digital Cinema

    Positioned at the junctures between traditional filmmaking and new forms of computer-based digital art, digital cinema increasingly blurs boundaries between music video, animation, graphic design, as well as avant-garde, independent, and mainstream cinemas. At Waikato you'll gain an appreciation of the productive exchange between these various forms of digital cinema.

  • Earth Sciences

    The demand for experts in Earth Sciences continues to grow as we look to better manage our soil, water, minerals, energy and coastal and marine resources, as well as understand natural hazards  such as floods, earthquakes, tsunami, landslides and volcanic eruptions.

  • Ecology and Biodiversity

    In studying Ecology and Biodiversity you’ll learn about the distribution, abundance, and biology of organisms and their role in New Zealand’s most important ecosystems.

  • Economics

    Studying Economics will help you develop the analytical skills needed to be an effective problem solver of real-life issues. You'll learn how to apply your skills to issues ranging from employment and housing, to public health, transport and environmental pollution.

  • Education

    Teaching at the University of Waikato sets you up to become a skilled and reflective teacher. We produce qualified teachers who are in high demand both in New Zealand and around the world. We also offer Education subjects for the Bachelor of Social Sciences and Bachelor of Arts degrees, and a range of postgraduate qualifications.

  • Education and Society

    Education and Society involves critical inquiry into the social, political, cultural, economic and personal theories and practices of lifelong education.

  • Electronic Engineering

    The work of electronic engineers is essential to our social, business and industrial lives.  New Zealand’s electronics manufacturing industry is one of the fastest-growing industries in the country.  Our companies are targeting niche markets, such as telecommunications, and exporting their products all over the world.

  • Electronics

    Science graduates with electronics skills are sought after by many industries that use or manufacture electronic equipment. New Zealand’s electronics manufacturing industry is one of the fastest-growing industries in the country. Our companies are targeting niche markets, such as telecommunications, and exporting their products all over the world.

  • Engineering

    Engineering professionals are solving the world's problems and leading the way in innovation by improving infrastructure, building smarter technologies and finding alternative energy sources.

  • English

    English at Waikato prepares you for what employers want – a trained mind and the ability to understand and creatively solve problems with words. You'll grow your appreciation for major literary works and a love for the English language.

  • English as a Second Language

    If your first language is not English, these papers will help you improve the skills you need for university study.

  • Entrepreneurship and Innovation

    Keen to be your own boss? Gain the practical skills to launch a new business venture, bring products to market, and devise strategies to find new customers in a competitive global environment.

  • Environment and Society

    The Environment and Society masters programme is designed for graduates of undergraduate qualifications in social sciences, environmental sciences, law, economics or management.

  • Environmental Engineering

    Study Environmental Engineering at the University of Waikato for a career where you'll make a lasting impact on society by helping to protect and enhance our natural and man-made environments, while enjoying excellent job prospects.

  • Environmental Planning

    Environmental Planning at Waikato develops your knowledge of how human behaviour affects the environment. We'll inspire you to understand how social, economic and cultural aspects, and the physical environment contribute to problems and provide solutions.

  • Environmental Sciences

    The pressure on our environment is increasing as the human population grows.  Environmental Sciences provide a basis for understanding environmental problems, and finding solutions to them.

  • Ethics

    The study of Ethics provides an excellent grounding in evaluative theory and reasoning for a professional future in the public service, the health sector, social work, with environmental agencies, and in business.

  • Finance

    Finance is all about achieving the best return relative to risk, and helping organisations add value for their shareholders. Studying Finance at Waikato University will prepare you for highly paid positions in the financial and business sectors anywhere in the world.

  • French

    Would you like to be able to chat with a winemaker in the Loire Valley? Discuss the menu with a waiter in a Parisian café? Frequent the Latin Quarter and talk about existentialism in the Café de la Sorbonne? A degree in French at Waikato is the place to start.

  • Geographical Information Systems

    Geographic Information Systems provides one of the major contact points between emerging computer technology and applied geographic skills. GIS involves the use of mapping skills, the use of information with a locational reference, and skills in geographical analysis and interpretation.

  • Geography

    Geography matters because it is about basic human relationships - between people and the environment, and between people and other people. Ranked among the top geography programmes in the world, the Geography programme at Waikato is the only solely human geography programme in New Zealand.

  • Geology

    Modern society is very dependent on mineral and energy resources, including aggregates and cement for construction, metals for manufacturing, rare earths for electronics and batteries, and energy for operating equipment.

  • Health Communication

    The health industry is growing and has significant opportunities for research and jobs both within New Zealand and around the world. There is a need, and niche, for health communication specialists.

  • Health, Sport and Human Performance

    Turn your passion into an exciting career by studying Health, Sport and Human Performance at the University of Waikato. Our exciting study options will equip you with the latest knowledge and skills to excel in this dynamic environment.

  • History

    Historians study the past to understand the present. History at Waikato will inspire you to understand current events in light of historical context and give you a first-rate history education from a top 200 QS-rated programme.

  • Human Development

    Interested in the study of the human lifespan from conception and birth onwards? Human Development investigates how people develop throughout their lives and how cultural and social settings help to shape what is possible.

  • Human Resource Management

    Human Resource Management prepares you to play a pivotal role in company needs – the person who recruits, develops and trains employees to achieve success.

  • Hydrology

    By studying Hydrology at the University of Waikato, you’ll understand the key components of water storage and water movement on and beneath the surface of the Earth, and the role of water in weather and climate. You’ll also learn about flood and drought hazards.

  • Industrial Relations and Human Resource Management

    Industrial Relations and Human Resource Management at Waikato prepares you to play the important role of managing people's work and their environment. You'll be ready for a career in employment relations, human resources, workplace change and education and training.

  • Interface Design

    In a fast-paced ever changing world, Interface Design puts designers at the intersection of design and code. You will help users to navigate the sometimes complex digital world with ease through Interface Design.

  • International Languages and Cultures

    International Languages and Cultures at Waikato delivers on advanced language skills to meet the world's need for multilingual and culturally sensitive speakers. Speaking another language will not only enhance your business and social skills but will also prepare you for success in a multicultural work environment.

  • International Management

    Learn to compete in the global marketplace by understanding how to operate a business in another country, and export to foreign markets such as China and the emerging markets of Asia and the Pacific.

  • International Relations and Security Studies

    Studying International Relations and Security Studies at Waikato includes aspects of international law and trade, and focuses on particular regions of concern (notably, the Middle-East and South-East Asia). A wide range of different length dissertations and theses can be undertaken allowing you to focus on an area of special interest.

  • Japanese

    The study of Japanese at Waikato involves the acquisition of Japanese language and the study of the history and culture of Japan.

  • Labour Studies

    Labour Studies looks at the world of work and employment and the social environment in which they take place.

  • Language and Literacy Education

    Language and Literacy Education encompasses the teaching and learning of literacy, reading and writing, literature, and language and languages in the compulsory sector. It also includes contexts beyond schooling such as academic literacy and writing in tertiary contexts, and literacy for adults in the community and in workplaces.

  • Law

    Studying law is empowering as it affects every aspect of our life. Study Law at the University of Waikato - ranked as one of the world's top 250 universities for Law - and you'll be looking into why laws are made, who makes them, how they work and how to change them.

  • Leadership Communication

    Research shows the best leaders and managers are outstanding communicators, enabling them to go further and faster in their careers. At Waikato University, we'll teach you how to communicate more effectively in the workplace and how to influence key stakeholders, helping organisations to make strategic changes.

  • Linguistics

    Linguistics is the scientific study of language and, given that language impinges on virtually everything we do, it is a broad and interesting subject. Linguistics at the University of Waikato is a top 250 QS-rated programme and will deepen your appreciation for language, as well as provide essential understandings relevant to any career where language is a key component.

  • Management and Sustainability

    In today's world of limited resources and increasing social justice concerns, we need informed, dedicated managers with the business and leadership skills to make a positive difference to the planet. How will you make your mark?

  • Management Education Abroad

    Global knowledge and experience can add value to your degree that will be appreciated by potential employers. The experience of living in another country, experiencing different cultural environments and studying at an overseas university represent significant learning opportunities.

  • Management Systems

    In today's interconnected world, effective management systems and organisational relationships are critical for business success.

  • Marketing

    Marketing is all about satisfying customer needs and it'll open the doors to a huge range of careers – from advertising and brand management through to strategic planning and product development.

  • Materials and Process Engineering

    By studying Materials and Process Engineering at the University of Waikato, you will learn how to add value to raw materials used to manufacture a number of useful products, while minimising waste.  These products can be as varied as dietary formulae, foods, ceramics that can withstand high temperatures, new metal alloys, pharmaceuticals, laminated boards, functional proteins, and composites.

  • Materials and Processing

    Efficiently converting the world’s raw materials and commodity goods into products is important to the global economy.  To do this, we need to understand the properties of materials as diverse as food, wood, metals, plastics and fuel.

  • Materials Science

    Explore the world of metals, polymers, ceramics, composites and semiconductors. From levitating trains to electronic paper, there are some exciting developments underway in the world of Materials Science that you could be a part of!

  • Mathematics

    Mathematics is a subject of vital importance that underpins many activities of our modern world. Employers recognise University of Waikato Mathematics graduates for their analytical and problem solving skills as well as their high level of numeracy, which are critical skills for a broad range of jobs.

  • Mechanical Engineering

    Mechanical engineering uses mechanics and energy principles to design, research, develop and manufacture tools, engines, motors and other devices.  At the University of Waikato we align what you learn with what industry requires.

  • Media Design

    Media Design combines elements of design, screen and media studies within a single major.  Use your design skills to create content for multi-media platforms such as 2D and 3D animation, film and video production, and motion graphics.

  • Molecular and Cellular Biology

    Molecular and Cellular Biology is an interdisciplinary field combining biochemistry, microbiology, genetics and physiology to study how cells function at the molecular level.

  • Music

    Study Music with leading performers, composers and musicologists; and perform in the acclaimed Dr John Gallagher Concert Chamber, part of the University of Waikato's purpose-built performing arts academy.

  • Māori and Indigenous Studies

    As indigenous world views become increasingly important to society, a rapidly emerging area of study is Indigenous Studies. The Māori creative and performing arts papers diversify your existing program and provide unique insights into Māori tikanga.

  • Māori and Pacific Development

    Are you interested in the current aspirations and development issues of Māori and Pacific peoples? Our Māori and Pacific Development programme seeks to create highly skilled and culturally grounded graduates to assume a leading role in directing development initiatives of indigenous peoples.

  • Māori Cultural Studies/Tikanga Māori

    Tikanga Māori (Māori Cultural Studies) teaches you the skills required for a community leadership role in the enhancement of Māori development. In today's rapidly evolving world you will establish a basic, yet necessary understanding of the Māori worldview and its relation to other cultures and worlds.

  • Māori Language/Te Reo Māori

    Are you passionate about the survival, retention and maintenance of te reo Māori? Studying the Māori language at Waikato, you'll explore the world of te reo's accompanying traditions, and will play an important role in the survival of the language for future generations.

  • Māori Media and Communication

    The study of Māori Media and Communication explores indigenous expression across new and emerging communication practices including social media, Māori broadcasting, film and creative performing arts.

  • New Zealand Studies/Akoranga Aotearoa

    New Zealand Studies/Akoranga Aotearoa is an interdisciplinary programme of study which draws together papers about New Zealand history, culture and identity.

  • Pacific and Indigenous Studies

    This subject explores the knowledge, language, culture, politics, methods and theory of Pacific and Indigenous Studies, while teaching students how to interpret new ways of understanding the world.

  • Pacific Studies

    Pacific Studies is an interdisciplinary programme which enables you to study a variety of topics relating to contemporary communities in the Pacific Islands.

  • Philosophy

    Philosophy is for thinkers and doers. It's about solving real-life problems, and applying intellectual rigour to how we understand and interact with others, society and the world. Studying Philosophy at Waikato will teach you how to learn, think and write clearly, argue vigorously, and question deeply held assumptions and beliefs.

  • Physics

    Physics aims to understand the entire physical world, from the sub-atomic to the cosmological.

  • Political Science

    Political Science at Waikato offers a broad spectrum of political knowledge on both national and international issues. You'll seek answers to some of the most difficult political issues of today and gain skills for many potential career paths.

  • Population Studies

    Learn about Population Studies through the National Institute for Demographic and Economic Analysis at Waikato and gain a solid, research-led understanding of the population issues facing developed and developing countries, with a particular emphasis on the South Pacific.

  • Population Studies and Demography

    Population issues are among the most serious challenges that humanity faces in the 21st century. Population Studies and Demography at Waikato addresses contrasting issues among developed and developing countries, how governments are handling slowing population growth, and how others are dealing with legal and illegal migration and skill shortages. You'll explore how such issues impact on a country's environmental, economic and social patterns.

  • Professional Writing

    Studying Professional Writing at Waikato teaches you high-level skills as a reader, writer and editor with excellent verbal, grammatical and analytical skills to excel your writing career.

  • Psychology

    From analysing the reasons for anger to considering the best way to train dogs, the study of Psychology allows insight into countless intriguing facets of cognitive function. Widely regarded as the centre of Applied Psychology in New Zealand, Psychology at Waikato offers numerous study options for those keen to pursue this remarkable discipline.

  • Public Policy

    Explore how national, regional and local state institutions formulate and implement policies when you study Public Policy at Waikato. You'll also examine how non-profit organisations, individuals and businesses address issues of public concern.

  • Public Relations

    The world of public relations is fast-growing and exciting. Get the public relations skills you need to help an organisation build trusted relationships with its key stakeholders and enhance its public reputation.

  • Science, Technology and Environmental Education

    The Science, Technology and Environmental Education programme is for educators interested in curriculum development, learning and teaching in science, technology and environmental education.

  • Screen and Media Studies

    Screen and Media Studies at Waikato makes sure you keep pace with new tools and platforms for the rapidly evolving media industry. You'll get high-quality learning experiences with up-to-date resources in our top 250 QS-rated programme.

  • Social Policy

    Be a force for change. Study Social Policy at Waikato and develop a critical understanding of how policy-making impacts on every person, regardless of their age, ethnicity or gender – then learn how to influence it.

  • Social Science Research

    Social Science Research is the activity of gathering, analysing and interpreting information for a variety of social, economic, educational and political purposes.

  • Social Work

    Social work is both an academic discipline and a practice-based profession that advocates for social change, social development and social cohesion, in order to empower and liberate people and communities.

  • Sociology

    Sociology at Waikato moves you beyond assumptions and explores who we are and our place in the world. You'll study human relationships and how societies form. Sociology at Waikato is highly respected and is a top 250 QS-rated subject.

  • Software Engineering

    When you study software engineering, you'll be learning about how to use a scientific and disciplined approach to designing and developing complex software systems. You'll also learn how to operate and maintain such systems.  From ATM machines to smart phones to cars - many aspects of modern society are driven by software which we expect to operate correctly and be reliable and flexible at all times.

  • Soil Science

    The growing global population is very dependent on increasing production of food and fibre from soils around the world.

  • Spanish

    Spanish is one of the major languages of Western Europe, and the most widely spoken language of the Americas, with a substantial number of native and second language speakers, ranging from Metropolitan areas of Canada and the US through Mesoamerican countries, most of South America and even in the Philippines.

  • Statistics

    Studying Statistics at the University of Waikato will help you to become a critical decision maker in industry.  You'll know how to collect and analyse data to lead organisations to informed decisions rather than just hunches or guesses.

  • Strategic Management

    Strategic Management enables you to discern a company's potential, find new market opportunities, and develop a clear plan to achieve growth and success.

  • Studies in Religion

    Study systems of religious belief and practice, and examine the religious dimension of human existence in all its diversity when you take the interdisciplinary Studies in Religion programme at Waikato.

  • Supply Chain Management

    Supply Chain Management gives you the skills to make companies more efficient, competitive and responsive to customers' needs. Learn how to take raw goods and turn them into products that reach customers.

  • Te Tohu Paetahi

    The first intensive te reo Māori immersion programme of its kind, Te Tohu Paetahi has paved the way for the revitalisation of te reo Māori for more than 25 years.

  • Teaching (Early Childhood)

    Teaching at the University of Waikato is a qualification that sets you up to become a skilled and reflective teacher. We produce qualified teachers who are in high demand both in New Zealand and around the world.

  • Teaching (Mātauranga Māori/Māori Medium)

    Teaching at the University of Waikato is a qualification that sets you up to become a skilled and reflective teacher. We produce qualified teachers who are in high demand both in New Zealand and around the world.

  • Teaching (Primary)

    Teaching at the University of Waikato is a qualification that sets you up to become a skilled and reflective teacher. We produce qualified teachers who are in high demand both in New Zealand and around the world.

  • Teaching (Secondary)

    Teachers are influential community members, making a difference to young people and their learning, knowledge and skill acquisition. They play a major role in helping their students develop their independence and success in their lives.

  • Theatre Studies

    A major in Theatre Studies at Waikato is a rich and challenging pathway to an arts degree with a wide range of vocational applications. Explore performance, and learn about the evolution of theatre and the creation of performance works.

  • Tourism and Hospitality Management

    Tourism and hospitality is one of the world's largest industries and a major player in New Zealand's economy – we need experts to steer that growth. Learn how to manage sustainable operations that will make a lasting impressions on visitors.

  • Tourism Management

    Tourism is one of the world's largest industries and significantly impacts New Zealand's economy – we need experts to steer that growth.

  • Treaty of Waitangi Studies/Akoranga Te Tiriti o Waitangi

    Are you passionate about New Zealand history and the constitution of our nation? Treaty of Waitangi/Te Tiriti o Waitangi programme examines the relevance of the Treaty and how it impacts on the relationship between the tangata whenua (people of the land) and colonisation.

  • Unistart

    The University of Waikato Unistart programme gives secondary school students a head-start in tertiary education by letting them complete university papers while they’re still at school.

  • Women's and Gender Studies

    Women’s lives, their status in society, the nature of contemporary gender relations, and the social construction of femininities, masculinities and sexualities, are the topics at the heart of Women's and Gender Studies at Waikato. Learn what critical thinkers have to say on these subjects, and bring your own understanding to the mix.

  • Writing Studies

    Do you love expressing yourself in words? Enjoy a learning environment in which you could explore your creativity as a poet or fiction writer. Acquire the skills in written communication that you can apply in business environments, or learn to write for digital media or for the screen.