Overview

University of Canterbury

Ranked & featured
sdgs/sdg overall
Sustainability Impact Rated
Christchurch, New Zealand
601–800th in World University Rankings 2026
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About the University of Canterbury

Basic information and contact details for the University of Canterbury

Immersed in the heart of Ōtautahi Christchurch, Aotearoa New Zealand’s second largest city, Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | University of Canterbury (UC) provides an experience unlike any other university. Nestled between Kā Tiritiri o te Moana, the majestic Southern Alps, and Te Moana-nui-a-Kiwa, the abundant Pacific Ocean, UC offers students endless opportunities for education, exploration and recreation, with all the conveniences of a modern city.

Outside traditional learning, we provide students the chance to find themselves, to connect with others and to positively contribute to a changing world. Our students are innovative and caring, and we are proud to support them to grow as individuals alongside the University of Canterbury Students’ Association, nurturing our warm and vibrant community. The global impact of the University’s highly skilled, industry-ready graduates is visible through a whānau (family) of more than 140,000 strong; a cohort of engaged and empowered alumni affecting change around the world.

Our vision for the University of Canterbury is a contemporary university, a place of learning that is grounded in our shared history, values our differences, and aspires towards research and tertiary education that is equitable and accessible to all. We are determined to remain agile, responsive and pioneering, pushing boundaries to meet the evolving needs of our students. Since the Canterbury Collegiate Union was founded with Henry John Tancred’s inaugural address in 1872, the University of Canterbury has stood for the encouragement of talent without barriers. In 2023, we celebrated our 150th anniversary by reflecting on our successes and learning opportunities, setting our aspirations for the next 50 years. We achieved record enrolments in 2024 which is evidence of our status as a future focused, engaging university.

We pride ourselves on delivering a high standard of education and facilitating creative and innovative research for the benefit of both local and global communities. The international networks paved by teaching and research excellence, provide opportunities for partnerships, research collaborations and student exchanges. Our academic leaders are encouraged to be courageous, forward-thinking and generous with their knowledge. They explore their fields of expertise with integrity and vigour, encourage conversations and challenges, and share their learnings with the intent of creating better outcomes for everyone.

People come first at the University of Canterbury, reflecting our intrinsic values: whanaungatanga, manaakitanga and tiakitanga. These values are rooted in trust, care and reciprocity, and were embedded over generations by the presence of the regions iwi (tribe)
In-Confidence

Ngāi Tahu, and hapū (sub-tribe),Ngāi Tūāhuriri. In fact, in 1861 Pita Te Hori, the first Upoko (tribal leader) of Ngāi Tūāhuriri, instructed the founders of Ōtautahi Christchurch: “kia atawhai ki te iwi – be kind to your people.” Today, these words underpin the relationships we foster amongst our students, staff and community. We are proud to open our doors to students and staff throughout Aotearoa New Zealand and the world, welcoming everyone to learn from one another and contribute to our diverse and flourishing community. The University of Canterbury is a place for everyone.

Our relationships with mana whenua (indigenous people of this land) are integral to these aspirations, as we strive to ensure that Te Tiriti o Waitangi (The Treaty of Waitangi) is the bedrock of the University of Canterbury. As we continue to strengthen our partnership and grow our understanding of mātauranga Māori (Māori knowledge systems), we are creating a programme of collaborative knowledge creation that sets the University of Canterbury apart. In doing so, we also acknowledge New Zealand as an integral Pacific nation and embrace the shared whakapapa (genealogical connections) and reciprocal relationships with our Pacific neighbours.

We seek to cultivate a spirit of curiosity that honours those who have gone before us, while contributing to the pool of diverse knowledge that we will in turn pass on to the next generation. In this, we are inspired by the Ngāi Tahu whakataukī (proverb): mō tātou, ā, mō ngā uri ā muri ake nei – for us and our children after us. We know that our students are our future, and we believe in empowering them to overcome the challenges of the changing world, and to create a more sustainable, equitable and inclusive future for us all.

The University of Canterbury provides a learning and research gateway, from the vast expanse of the galaxy to the depths of the Antarctic continent—offering the connection, understanding and opportunities that will enable us to overcome the challenges facing our society.

Our people are powered by resilience and determination, using our combined knowledge and experience to chart a course into the future – aukahatia tō waka, he hekenga tai roa. We stand with our community in times of need, mobilising our networks to provide solutions, resources and simple kindness.

There is a place for you at the University of Canterbury – nau mai, tauti mai – come join us.

Mission, Vision, Values and Focus

Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | University of Canterbury

Rankings

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Impact Rankings

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Key Student Statistics

A breakdown of student statistics at the University of Canterbury

gender ratio
Student gender ratio
50 F : 50 M (1)
globe fill
International student percentage
18% (1)
student per staff
Students per staff
19.1 (1)
student
Student total
14857 (1)

Based on data collected for the (1) World University Rankings 2026

Jobs at the University of Canterbury

Open positions for academics and staff at the University of Canterbury

See all

Lecturer / Senior Lecturer in Statistics

UNIVERSITY OF CANTERBURY

University of Canterbury

New Zealand, Christchurch

institution

University of Canterbury

New Zealand, Christchurch


Te Kaupeka Pūhanga | Faculty of Engineering Te Kura Pāngarau | School of Mathematics and Statistics Located in Ōtautahi | Christchurch, Aotearoa | New Zealand Full-time 37.5 hours per week (1.0 FTE) Continuing (permanent) position Generous annual leave provisions and professional development opportunities Āu Mahi | What You Will Do As a Lecturer or Senior Lecturer in Statistics, you will contribute to an engaging academic environment where high-quality teaching and impactful research support student success and innovation in the field. In this role, you will: Deliver inspiring, research-informed teaching across the curriculum that empowers students to achieve their potential and develop critical, creative, and analytical skills, supporting learners on-campus and through online delivery. Lead innovation in curriculum design and delivery, contributing to improved student experiences, retention, and graduate outcomes. Seek external funding to enhance the School’s scholarship and research profile. Supervise and mentor postgraduate students, supporting their academic growth and career aspirations. Develop a strong research profile in statistics or a related field and contribute to the School’s research culture. Build collaborative research connections within the University, with industry partners, and across national and international networks. Contribute to service, outreach, and leadership activities that enhance the inclusive, collegial culture of the School and Faculty. This role is an exciting opportunity to shape the School’s research culture and direction, while building your own programme of research in a supportive and forward-thinking environment. Special role requirements This position includes teaching responsibilities offshore contributing to the joint education programme between University of Canterbury and Qufu Normal University, Shandong Province, China. Mōu | Who You Are You are an enthusiastic and collaborative academic who values inclusive teaching and research. You will bring: A PhD (or equivalent) in statistics, or a closely related discipline. A passion for teaching excellence, with experience in engaging, inclusive, and innovative learning and assessment practices. Evidence of a growing or established research portfolio in statistics, with the potential to lead and contribute to impactful outputs. Experience in mentoring, supervision, or academic leadership, with a collegial and supportive approach to working with others. An understanding (or emerging understanding) of the Treaty of Waitangi (Te Tiriti o Waitangi) and Aotearoa NZ’s bicultural context. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively across diverse communities and cultures. A demonstrated commitment to equity and inclusivity, supporting the success of women and underrepresented groups in STEM. Mahi Ngātahi | Who You Will Work With The School of Mathematics and Statistics is one of the largest and most diverse academic units at the University. We teach thousands of students each year across a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, and our staff are internationally recognised for both their research and teaching excellence. Our team is committed to creating an inclusive, student-centred learning environment where innovative teaching and impactful research come together. We take pride in our collegial culture, our engagement with communities, and our dedication to improving the student experience. Ngā Painga o UC | Why UC Tangata Tū, Tangata Ora -– Engaged, Empowered, Making a Difference. We believe in creating a welcoming and empowering workplace where everyone feels valued. Our values of manaakitanga (care and respect), whanaungatanga (connection and belonging), and tiakitanga (stewardship and sustainability) guide our actions and reflect our dedication to fostering compassion, collaboration, and excellence. We are deeply committed to accessible higher education and breaking down barriers related to distance, financial means, gender, or ethnicity. We empower our graduates and staff to make a real impact in their communities and beyond. What We Offer The University is committed to providing an excellent working environment, this includes: relocation support for international and domestic candidates generous leave policies with five weeks annual leave and five additional university holidays UC Parental Leave (up to 9 weeks paid) + 26 weeks Government paid parental leave and onsite childcare facility widely accessible sabbatical provision generous employer contribution to superannuation (up to 6.75%) University and Faculty scholarship support for post-graduate students a unique bequest funded endowment (Erskine Fund) that supports an extensive visiting fellowship programme flexible working arrangements professional development and study opportunities living in revitalised Ōtautahi | Christchurch, Aotearoa New Zealand a unique working environment in a beautiful campus with access to UC facilities such as the recreation centre and Staff Club at discounted rates plus onsite cafés and eateries, and more. For more information on our Benefits, please visit https://www.canterbury.ac.nz/joinus/benefits/ This role sits within the Academic Staff, Associated Staff and Support Staff Collective Agreement and the following salary scale applies: Lecturer $94,181 - $113,616; Senior Lecturer $119,586 - $135,630. The closing date for this position is: Wednesday, 15th July 2026 (midnight NZ time) Please note, applications will be reviewed after the close date. Pēhea te tono mai | How You Apply Applications for this position must be submitted on our careers website and should include the following: a cover letter (maximum 1 page), + a research statement outlining current and future research interests (maximum 2 pages) + a statement outlining teaching philosophy, approach, and experience across different modes of delivery (maximum 1 page) (combined into one document) a resume including a list of relevant research publications (combined into one document). Please note, the online application process has only two upload fields. Please amalgamate the above required documents into two documents – cover letter and resume. We do not accept applications by email; however, we are happy to answer any queries at WorkatUC@canterbury.ac.nz For further information specifically about the role, please contact: Daniel Gerhard, Mathematics and Statistics, daniel.gerhard@canterbury.ac.nz For overseas applicants, please visit Immigration New Zealand website, to review the latest health and visa requirements for visiting and working in New Zealand. At the University of Canterbury, we strive for inclusivity and diversity. We understand that some candidates may hesitate to apply unless they meet every criterion. Our hiring decisions strive to go beyond traditional qualifications and job experience. If you're interested in applying but unsure about meeting all requirements or need extra support, please inform us. As part of our commitment to supporting academic career progression, we take proactive steps to removing barriers, addressing unconscious bias, promoting equity in decision-making and providing support for career progression, promotion and development. Join us in shaping the future of Statistics in an environment that values collaboration, inclusivity, and well-being.

Salary

$94,181 - $135,630

Posted

17 Jun 2026

Lecturer / Senior Lecturer in Applied Mathematics

UNIVERSITY OF CANTERBURY

University of Canterbury

New Zealand, Christchurch

institution

University of Canterbury

New Zealand, Christchurch


Full-time 37.5 hours per week (1.0 FTE) Continuing (permanent) position Generous annual leave provisions and professional development opportunities Au Mahi - What You Will Do As a Lecturer or Senior Lecturer in Applied Mathematics, you will contribute to an engaging academic environment where high-quality teaching and impactful research support student success and innovation in the field. In this role you will: Deliver inspiring, research-informed teaching across the curriculum that empowers students to achieve their potential and develop critical, creative, and analytical skills. Lead innovation in curriculum design and delivery, contributing to improved student experiences, retention, and graduate outcomes. Seek external funding to enhance the School’s scholarship and research profile. Supervise and mentor postgraduate students, supporting their academic growth and career aspirations. Develop a strong research profile in applied mathematics or a related field and contribute to the School’s research culture. Build collaborative research connections within the University, with industry partners, and across national and international networks. Contribute to service, outreach, and leadership activities that enhance the inclusive, collegial culture of the School and Faculty. At Senior Lecturer level, you will also provide leadership in research and contribute to mentoring colleagues. You will help shape the School's research culture and direction and contribute to growing the School's reputation for excellence in applied mathematics. This role is an exciting opportunity to shape the School's research culture and direction, while building your own programme of research in a supportive and forward-thinking environment. Special role requirements This position includes teaching responsibilities offshore, contributing to the joint education programme between the University of Canterbury and Qufu Normal University, Shandong Province, China. Mou - Who You Are You are an enthusiastic and collaborative academic with expertise in applied mathematics and a passion for teaching, research, and supporting student success. You will bring: A PhD (or equivalent) in mathematics, statistics, or a closely related discipline. A passion for teaching excellence, with experience in engaging, inclusive, and innovative learning and assessment practices. Evidence of a growing or established research portfolio in applied mathematics, with the potential to lead and contribute to impactful outputs. Experience in mentoring, supervision, or academic leadership, with a collegial and supportive approach to working with others. An understanding (or emerging understanding) of the Treaty of Waitangi (Te Tiriti o Waitangi) and Aotearoa NZ’s bicultural context. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively across diverse communities and cultures. A demonstrated commitment to equity and inclusivity, supporting the success of women and underrepresented groups in STEM. Mahi Ngatahi - Who You Will Work With The School of Mathematics and Statistics is one of the largest and most diverse academic units at the University. We teach thousands of students each year across a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, and our staff are internationally recognised for both their research and teaching excellence. Our team is committed to creating an inclusive, student-centred learning environment where innovative teaching and impactful research come together. We take pride in our collegial culture, our engagement with communities, and our dedication to improving the student experience. Nga Painga o UC - Why UC Tangata Tu, Tangata Ora - Engaged, Empowered, Making a Difference. We believe in creating a welcoming and empowering workplace where everyone feels valued. Our values of manaakitanga (care and respect), whanaungatanga (connection and belonging), and tiakitanga (stewardship and sustainability) guide our actions and reflect our dedication to fostering compassion, collaboration, and excellence. We are deeply committed to accessible higher education and breaking down barriers related to distance, financial means, gender, or ethnicity. We empower our graduates and staff to make a real impact in their communities and beyond. What We Offer UC provides a flexible and family-friendly working environment with benefits that support wellbeing, career progression, and work-life balance, including: Parental leave benefits with 9 weeks paid UC parental leave and 26 weeks Government paid parental leave. Relocation support for international and domestic candidates. Generous leave policies with five weeks annual leave and five additional university holidays. Flexible working arrangements. Sabbatical provision and opportunities for professional development and continuous learning. Onsite paid childcare facilities to help balance work and family life. Generous employer contribution to superannuation (up to 6.75%). University and faculty scholarship support for postgraduate students. A unique bequest-funded endowment (Erskine Fund) that supports an extensive visiting fellowship programme. Living in revitalised Otautahi - Christchurch, Aotearoa New Zealand. A unique working environment in a beautiful campus with access to facilities such as the recreation centre and Staff Club at discounted rates. For more information on our benefits, please visit https://www.canterbury.ac.nz/joinus/benefits/. This role sits within the Academic Staff, Associated Staff and Support Staff Collective Agreement and the following salary scale applies: Lecturer $94,181 - $113,616; Senior Lecturer $119,586 - $135,630. The closing date for this position is: Tuesday, 21 July 2026 (midnight NZ time) Please note, applications will be reviewed after the close date. Pehea te tono mai - How You Apply Applications for this position must be submitted on our careers website and should include the following: A cover letter (maximum 1 page). A research statement outlining current and future research interests (maximum 2 pages). A statement outlining teaching philosophy, approach, and experience across different modes of delivery (maximum 1 page). A resume, including a list of relevant research publications. We do not accept applications by email. However, we are happy to answer any queries at WorkatUC@canterbury.ac.nz. For further information specifically about the role, please contact Professor Michael Plank, School of Mathematics and Statistics (michael.plank@canterbury.ac.nz). To apply for this job, please click here

Salary

$94,181 - $135,630

Posted

19 Jun 2026

Lecturer (Teaching & Administration), School of Mathematics and Statistics

UNIVERSITY OF CANTERBURY

University of Canterbury

New Zealand, Christchurch

institution

University of Canterbury

New Zealand, Christchurch


Te Kaupeka Pūhanga | Faculty of Engineering Te Kura Pāngarau | School of Mathematics and Statistics Located in Ōtautahi - Christchurch, Aotearoa - New Zealand Full-time, 37.5 hours per week (1.0 FTE) Continuing (permanent) position Generous annual leave provisions and professional development opportunities Āu Mahi | What You Will Do We have an exciting opportunity for a Lecturer (Teaching & Administration) to support our programmes in the School of Mathematics and Statistics. The team has a wide range of responsibilities, including supporting students, teaching, tutoring, and developing resources. You will be involved in student support and teaching at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. In this role, you will: Deliver high-quality undergraduate and postgraduate teaching into our programmes, both at UC's Christchurch campus and at offshore locations with our partner organisations. Support learners across multiple modes of delivery, including on-campus, distance, and online. Engage with the School's Transnational Education (TNE) programme, with leadership and coordination responsibilities. Coordinate online and face-to-face engagement activities that support TNE students' connection with UC and readiness for transfer. Be a first point of contact, providing pastoral care and programme support to international students coming in via our TNE pathway from our partner universities. Special Role Requirements This position includes teaching responsibilities offshore, contributing to the joint education programme between the University of Canterbury and Qufu Normal University, Shandong Province, China. Mōu | Who You Are You have expertise in mathematics and/or statistics and a passion for teaching, research, and supporting student success. You will bring: An MSc or PhD in mathematics, statistics, data science, computer science, or a closely related discipline. Demonstrated experience in delivering effective teaching at tertiary level that allow a wide range of learners to succeed. Excellent oral and written communication skills, effective time management, and familiarity with digital technology. Enthusiasm for supporting students in a multicultural environment. Ability to provide academic, pastoral, and programme support to international tertiary students. A collegial approach and willingness to contribute to School and University service. Commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion, and respect for Aotearoa New Zealand's bicultural heritage and Te Tiriti o Waitangi. Mahi Ngātahi | Who You Will Work With The School of Mathematics and Statistics sits at the heart of the University, teaching into programmes across campus and spanning a wide range of disciplines. We offer a variety of degrees in Mathematics, Statistics, Financial Engineering, and Data Science. We aspire to be a productive, dynamic, and inspiring community, committed to maintaining a collegial and supportive environment where staff at all career stages are encouraged to grow, collaborate, and do their best work. Ngā Painga o UC | Why UC Tangata Tū, Tangata Ora - Engaged, Empowered, Making a Difference. We believe in creating a welcoming and empowering workplace where everyone feels valued. Our values of manaakitanga (care and respect), whanaungatanga (connection and belonging), and tiakitanga (stewardship and sustainability) guide our actions and reflect our dedication to fostering compassion, collaboration, and excellence. We are deeply committed to accessible higher education and breaking down barriers related to distance, financial means, gender, or ethnicity. We empower our graduates and staff to make a real impact in their communities and beyond. What We Offer UC provides a flexible and family-friendly working environment with benefits that support wellbeing, career progression, and work-life balance, including: Parental leave benefits, including nine weeks of paid UC parental leave and 26 weeks of Government-paid parental leave. Relocation support for international and domestic candidates. Generous leave policies, including five weeks' annual leave and five additional University holidays. Flexible working arrangements. Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning. Onsite paid childcare facilities to help balance work and family life. Generous employer contributions to superannuation (up to 6.75%). A unique working environment on a beautiful campus, with access to facilities such as the recreation centre, Staff Club, and onsite cafés and eateries at discounted rates. For more information on our benefits, please visit https://www.canterbury.ac.nz/joinus/benefits/. This role sits within the Academic Staff, Associated Staff and Support Staff Collective Agreement, and the following salary scale applies: Lecturer (Teaching and Administration) $70,258 - $123,687. The closing date for this position is: Sunday, 28 June 2026 (midnight NZ time) Please note that applications will be reviewed after the closing date. Pēhea te tono mai | How You Apply Applications for this position must be submitted on our careers website and should include the following: A cover letter, including your reflections on relevant multicultural aspects of student support and ways you could contribute to international student exchange and engagement in our School (maximum one page), and a statement outlining your teaching philosophy, approach, and experience across different modes of delivery (maximum one page), combined into one document. A resume. Please note: there are only two upload fields, so please amalgamate the above requested documents into two documents (preferably PDFs). We do not accept applications by email. However, we are happy to answer any queries at WorkatUC@canterbury.ac.nz. For further information specifically about the role, please contact Clemency Montelle, Head of School, Mathematics and Statistics, at clemency.montelle@canterbury.ac.nz. For overseas applicants, please visit Immigration New Zealand to review the latest health and visa requirements for visiting and working in New Zealand.

Salary

$70,258 - $123,687

Posted

11 Jun 2026

Subjects Taught at the University of Canterbury

See below for a range of subjects taught at the University of Canterbury

Arts and Humanities

  • Archaeology
  • Architecture
  • Art, Performing Art and Design
  • History, Philosophy and Theology
  • Languages, Literature and Linguistics

Business and Economics

  • Accounting and Finance
  • Business and Management
  • Economics and Econometrics

Computer Science

  • Computer Science

Education Studies

  • Education

Engineering

  • Chemical Engineering
  • Civil Engineering
  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering
  • General Engineering
  • Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

Law

  • Law

Life Sciences

  • Agriculture and Forestry
  • Biological Sciences
  • Sport Science
  • Veterinary Science

Medical and Health

  • Medicine and Dentistry
  • Other Health

Physical Sciences

  • Chemistry
  • Geology, Environmental, Earth and Marine Sciences
  • Mathematics and Statistics
  • Physics and Astronomy

Psychology

  • Psychology

Social Sciences

  • Communication and Media Studies
  • Geography
  • Politics and International Studies
  • Sociology

Downloads

Download in-depth information about the University of Canterbury

pdf

Undergraduate Prospectus 2025.pdf

pdf

Introduction to UC 2025.pdf

pdf

International Prospectus 2025-26.pdf

pdf

Study Abroad 2025.pdf