Study Abroad Programs in Christchurch, New Zealand

The two main education providers in Christchurch are the University of Canterbury and the Christchurch Polytechnic Institute of Technology. These two great choices, combined with a few smaller institutions, mean you will be able to find courses to suit a diverse range of interests.

Christchurch has strong rural roots (you will notice a strong sheep theme during your stay) so this is the ideal location for studying agriculture and agribusiness. Because New Zealand's also investing a lot into the study of agricultural practices, and how to make them more sustainable and eco-friendly, studying in Christchurch can easily focus on science, biology, and conservation. For these nature-related courses, you will have ample opportunities for field trips to nearby farms and wilderness locations. If you are more inclined towards marine biology, Christchurch can cater for that as well, with a convenient coastal location. All along the coast you can find critters like seals, penguins, and even whales.

The semesters as you study in Christchurch do not match those in the northern hemisphere: the first semester starts in March and finishes in June, while the second semester starts in July and finishes in early November. If these times make it difficult to coordinate a semester abroad, there is also the option of studying abroad in Christchurch over summer, from December to February - yes, this means you will have a summery Christmas! Summer is the most agreeable time to be traveling New Zealand thanks to warmer and drier weather, but the New Year’s period is also the best time to catch dozens of festivals and other seasonal celebrations.