About Victoria University of Wellington
Victoria University of Wellington, full name Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington, sits across three campuses in New Zealand’s vibrant capital city. The university’s central location gives students access to diverse national organisations in the areas of business, government, politics, culture and heritage, the arts and filmmaking industry, and science and technology communities.
Wellington is a compact city where students can easily explore nature trails, beaches, galleries, museums, and events. It is multicultural, safe, friendly, and has a reputation for great food and coffee—it regularly ranks as one of the world’s most liveable cities.
Quality education
Victoria University of Wellington is consistently placed among the best universities in the world across major global rankings. It’s one of just 13 institutions to achieve a full ‘5 Stars Plus’ according to the QS Stars rating of excellence – built on a 5-star rating across all eight categories, from employment to global engagement, teaching, facilities, arts and more.
There are nine faculties, eight of which conduct teaching and research: Architecture and Design Innovation, Education, Engineering, Health, Humanities and Social Sciences, Law, Science, and the Wellington School of Business and Government. The university is home to more than 40 research centres and institutes, including the Antarctic Research Centre and Centre for Data Science and AI.
Welcoming community
The university has a diverse community that welcomes international students from more than 100 countries and offers students complete support through a range of wellbeing and learning services.
Students will discover endless opportunities to get involved during their time at Victoria University of Wellington. There are more than 140 clubs, societies, and sports to explore, while extracurricular programmes like the free Wellington International Leadership Programme support students in developing their personal global citizenship skills.
Graduate outcomes
Victoria University of Wellington’s careers and employment team helps students achieve their career goals. The team offers professional advice on career planning, job exploration, and career development. The team can also help international students apply for jobs and internships, write CVs and cover letters, as well as learn interview tips.
Students can find useful resources online about internships, work experience, and job opportunities. Career expos and graduation recruitment events are held throughout the year and give students the opportunity to meet potential employers and find out about jobs and internships. The Alumni as Mentors programme matches final-year students with successful graduates who can offer valuable tips and advice for transitioning from study to a work environment.
Graduate profile
Victoria University of Wellington prepares its graduates to:
- specialise in their chosen field of study
- demonstrate problem-solving, creative thinking, and teamwork skills
- communicate complex ideas accurately and effectively in many contexts
- demonstrate independent thinking and openness to new ideas
- develop strong global citizenship skills.
Of the graduates from Victoria University of Wellington who completed the 2022–2023 Graduate Destinations Survey:
- 76 percent were in full-time employment
- 91 percent were employed prior to or within six months of completing their degree
- 16 percent went on to full-time study, and nine per cent of graduates pursuing full-time study also worked either full time or part time.
What’s new
Connect with Victoria University of Wellington’s students
Students can connect with Victoria University of Wellington’s current international students. The university’s student ambassadors are available to answer questions. Start by asking about what it’s like to live in Wellington, New Zealand.
Connect now
Rankings
Victoria University of Wellington holds a strong performance in the QS World University Rankings for 2024. The university is ranked 244th overall.
The university ranks in the top one percent of institutions surveyed around the world for 15 subjects and within the top two percent for 27 subjects. These results include one subject —Linguistics— in the top 50 in the world and nine in the top 100.
Top 100 in the world in the following subjects:
- Development Studies
- English Language and Literature
- Geography
- Hospitality and Leisure Management
- Law
- Library and Information Management
- Performing Arts
- Politics and International Studies
- Theology/Divinity and Religious Studies
Within New Zealand, the university ranks first in the following subjects:
- Linguistics
- Library and Information Management
- Politics and International Studies
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Wellington, Pipitea, New Zealand
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