Top three fields of study to consider in New Zealand universities.

 

 

Do you know that New Zealand has only 8 universities and all of them are globally recognized? This is to show you the quality of education obtainable in such a country. New Zealand offers students a unique and extraordinary study experience. You can call it a small but mighty country, no wonder New Zealand tops the list of study destinations for international students.

If you're looking for a serene, tranquil, and less populated country to study and settle in, then New Zealand should top your list.  There are eight universities in New Zealand, all of which feature in the QS World University Rankings, a particularly impressive feat when you consider the country's population as only around 4.7 million.

Whilst New Zealand’s higher education model is flexible and encompassing, there are a few standout study fields in which the nation particularly shines.

 

1. Law

Law programs in New Zealand are quite flexible. Four of the country's universities are within the top 100 in Law, and students may complete renowned Undergraduate and Postgraduate Law programs at the University of Auckland (28th), the University of Otago (37th), or the Victoria University of Wellington (49th). The University of Auckland’s law school is within the world’s top 20, summing award-winning research and an active law student society.

Recently named the world’s most socially advanced country, New Zealand ranked highly in access to basic knowledge (2nd), tolerance and inclusion (4th), and personal freedom and choice (1st). 

Students are taught to be tolerant, open-minded, level-headed and mature in their approach to Law, addressing real-world social issues and taking initiative in drawing their conclusions.

 

2. Psychology

New Zealand institutions are highly rated in Psychology, with the University of Otago’s psychology department named the best in the country. New Zealand’s forward-thinking and broad-reaching social attitudes make Psychology a key field of interest for students.

With teaching focused on inventiveness, students are constantly pushed to critique their work as well as the work of their peers, developing a critical confidence that will help them to form their conclusions from the course content. 

The university also ranked 19th globally in the field, with the University of Auckland (34th) not far behind. Five out of eight New Zealand institutions are within the world’s top 150 for Psychology.

 

3. Geography and Environmental Studies

A strong regard for the environment is reflected in New Zealand’s highly-ranked Environmental Studies programs: three New Zealand universities are ranked within the world’s top 100 in Geography and Area Studies. In contrast, the top 200 four are ranked for Marine Sciences, and three for Environmental Sciences.

New Zealanders are hugely conscientious of the environment and enjoy a strong outdoor culture. Home to the breathtaking hills made famous by Lord of the Rings,  Hiking, mountaineering and kayaking are all popular ways to pass time, with the nation ranking first globally in fields of environmental progress.

Agriculture is a key national industry and of fundamental importance to the country's economy. Agriculture, food and forestry sectors generate a whopping 70% of New Zealand’s exports and are currently set to grow at a rate of 3.3% per year. 

Demand for skills and knowledge in these fields is set to increase over the next 20 years. Students will gain the practical, on-the-ground experience they will use to create strategies and plans for sustainable development and have ample opportunity to experience the nations’ environmental management structures and conservation strategies hands-on.

In summary, this does not mean that other programs of study are not feasible in New Zealand. Health, engineering, and IT programs thrive favorably in this country as well. However, these three aforementioned are top of the list and are considered priorities. 

To start your school search and application for any of the schools in New Zealand or any other high-income country of the world, visit our FREE webinar now. There, you will have access to all the information you need to prepare your application and apply to your chosen school in any country. Also, you will find information on how to apply for scholarships and study loans to fund your education abroad.