Nov 1, 2006: The number of foreign students in New Zealand saw a steep rise, from about 28,000 in 1998-99 to a peak of 1,20,000 in 2003 before falling to 1,02,000 in 2004. The government here has been actively promoting New Zealand as the “destination of choice” for entrepreneurs, investors and students. For instance, now foreign students can receive points towards immigration visa for graduating from a New Zealand institution, and could work 15 hours a week while studying (20 hours per week since July 2005). After graduation, foreign students may search for jobs for six months, receive a two-year work permit when they find a job, or secure an immigrant visa if they have sufficient points.

 

Beginning from 1998, the New Zealand government announced several immigration policy initiatives aimed to make New Zealand a more attractive destination. Most recently, the government announced that it would spend an extra $3 million to attract international students to the country.

 

China, South Korea and Japan account for over half of the foreign students in New Zealand.

 

Until 1961, there was only one degree-granting university in New Zealand, the University of New Zealand, which had constituent colleges around New Zealand. Now the colleges are independent universities in their own right, and since then two new universities have been created (Auckland University of Technology and Waikato University).

 

Currently, New Zealand has eight national universities offering degree programs at undergraduate and postgraduate levels in academic and professional studies. All universities offer a broad range of subjects for degrees in science along with commerce and arts alongwith developing its niche specialty.

 

In addition to the universities, there are about 20 Polytechnics and Institutes of Technology in the country. These provide education and training at tertiary levels (higher levels) ranging from introductory studies through to full degree programs. A degree from one of these institutions has equal status with a university degree. Courses emphasize practical experience and application to work situations. Qualifications are designed to allow students to enter and exit at different levels appropriate to their academic level and English language ability. ‘’Staircasing’’ allows the student to enroll for a certificate that gives them credit towards a diploma or degree if they continue to study.

 

The “university year” begins in late February or early March with an orientation week, and ends in October. Each university has its own timetable but generally the year is divided into two semesters of about 12 weeks each, with a two-week break during the semester and a six-week break in the middle of the year.

 

The Institute of Technology and Polytechnics classes have two semesters, February to June and July to November, with holidays similar to secondary schools. Some half-year courses may start in July. The courses in various disciplines are developed in association with advisory groups representing industry, commerce, and the community. Contributions from these groups ensure that courses are relevant, up-to-date and innovative, so that graduates have skills that are valued by employers.

 

Typically, a Bachelor’s degree will take three years, and a further year of study will lead to an Honors degree while some specialist Bachelor’s degrees may take longer to complete. A Bachelor’s degree may be followed by a Master’s degree. A candidate who does not hold an Honors degree may be awarded a Master’s degree with Honors but such a degree usually involves two years’ study, compared to one year for a Master’s degree for a candidate who does have an Honors degree. A candidate who has either a Master’s or a Bachelor’s degree with Honors may proceed to a Doctoral degree.

 

The Massey University boasts of a history of academic excellence. It has three campuses located in Auckland (Albany), Palmerston North and Wellington. The Massey Palmerston North is one of New Zealand’s premier, largest institution for the life sciences, agricultural, horticultural and veterinary teaching and research and is a leader in industrial innovation through areas such as food science and technology, biotechnology, advanced material sciences and product development. It offers 150 qualifications across the spectrum of Sciences, Education and Business among others. The campus also offers 75 postgraduate qualifications and is the engine room of the University’s research culture. It is home to the Allan Wilson Centre for Molecular Ecology and Evolution, which is a Centre of Research Excellence.

 

The College of Sciences at Massey was established in early 1998 amalgamating the previous faculties of Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences, Veterinary Science, Technology, Information and Mathematical Sciences, and Science. The College comprises eight research-focused Institutes promoting inter-disciplinary teaching and research. Out of the eight institutes, one is focused on Molecular Biosciences, another on Veterinary Animal and Biomedical Sciences. Food, Nutrition and Human Health is the focus of yet another institute, while Fundamental Sciences is taught at a separate institute.

 

Some of the degree programs offers by the university are BE (Hons) Biotech, Bachelor of Science (Biochemistry), Bachelor of Science (Genetics), Bachelor of Health Science, Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science, Bachelor of Applied Science (Hons), Bachelor of Science (Hons) along with Master of Science among others.