Top 10 Trending Courses to Study in New Zealand in 2025

Have you ever thought about studying in New Zealand? It’s not just the  environment that makes it a great place to study, but the quality of education as well.

New Zealand’s universities are highly regarded, with all eight ranking in the top 500 globally. This means you’ll get a degree that’s recognised internationally, opening doors to career opportunities around the world. Plus, the country’s education system is known for its research opportunities and focus on transformation.

What makes New Zealand even more appealing is how safe it is. It ranks second on the Global Peace Index 2022, so you can feel secure while you’re studying there. The quality of life is also fantastic, giving you a good balance between your studies and personal life.

If you’re thinking about studying abroad, New Zealand could be the perfect fit for you, offering a combination of excellent education, safety, and an enriching experience.

Why Study in New Zealand?

• Smaller classes for more attention.
• A friendly place for students from everywhere.
• Internships and authentic projects.
• Study in a country full of natural beauty.
• Great opportunities for research.
• One of the safest countries for students.
• Work Opportunities.
• Globally Recognised Degrees around the world.

Popular Courses in New Zealand

New Zealand offers a variety of globally recognised courses at affordable tuition fees compared to other countries. Here are some of the most sought-after programs:

1. Master of Business Administration (MBA)

An MBA from New Zealand is a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, offering state-of-the-art smart classrooms and regular workshops. The course enhances managerial skills and helps students interpret and predict business trends.

Average Salary: Up to NZ$104,750 per year.

2. Artificial Intelligence (AI)

AI is transforming various industries, including automobile, healthcare, finance, and banking. New Zealand’s AI sector is growing rapidly, with the country’s GDP expected to reach $54 million by 2035.

Career Options: Software Engineer, AI Developer, Data Scientist, Machine Learning Engineer, and more.

3. Master of Science (MS)

New Zealand is home to several top-ranked institutions for science programs. Students can choose between a taught master’s or a research master’s program, gaining specialised training and research opportunities.

Top Universities: 4 Kiwi institutions rank in the QS Top 500 for science.

4. Civil Engineering

This 1-1.5-year program covers construction, infrastructure planning, and environmental management. Graduates can work as structural engineers, geotechnical engineers, or environmental engineers.

Top University: The University of Auckland ranks in the top 50 globally for civil engineering.

5. Hotel Management

With New Zealand being a major tourist destination, hotel management courses provide hands-on training and exposure to real-world hospitality operations. The tuition fees are lower compared to the US or the UK.

Specialisations: Culinary excellence, food & beverage service, barista training, hospitality management, and more.

6. Accounting

Accounting graduates from New Zealand can explore career options such as auditors, tax advisors, financial analysts, and chief financial officers. The courses cover topics like economics, finance, taxation, auditing, and risk management.

7. Agriculture

Agribusiness is booming in New Zealand, making it an excellent choice for students looking to study agriculture and related fields. Job roles include farm manager, horticulturist, agricultural scientist, and more.

8. IT and Computer Science

New Zealand’s IT programs cover multimedia, software development, cybersecurity, and web design. Many universities offer internship programs with local tech firms to give students hands-on experience.

9. Medicine, Healthcare, and Nursing

New Zealand offers top-tier medical programs, including medicine, dentistry, physiotherapy, and nursing. Students begin with a Health Sciences first-year program before specializing in a chosen medical field.

Top Universities: University of Auckland, University of Otago.

10. Animation and Web Design

Creative fields like animation and web design are thriving in New Zealand, with courses covering 2D/3D animation, UI/UX design, and programming languages like JavaScript and SQL.

Top Universities in New Zealand 2025

Final Thoughts

With a growing international student population, New Zealand continues to be a preferred destination for quality education. Every year, thousands of students from around the world choose New Zealand for its globally recognised degrees, innovative learning environment, and strong career prospects. The country’s emphasis on research, practical training, and industry collaborations ensures that graduates are well-prepared for the global job market. Whether you’re interested in business, technology, healthcare, or creative fields, studying in New Zealand offers the perfect blend of academic excellence, diversity, and post-study opportunities.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can international students work in New Zealand while studying?

Yes! Students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during scheduled holidays. Some research-based master’s and PhD students can work unlimited hours.

2. Is healthcare free for international students in New Zealand?

No, international students must have medical and travel insurance while studying in New Zealand. However, some universities provide student health services at a subsidised cost.

3. Do universities in New Zealand accept gap years?

Yes, most universities accept gap years, but students may need to justify their gap with relevant experience, such as work, internships, or skill development programs.

4. Are there any English language exemptions for international students?

Some students from English-speaking countries or those who have studied in English-medium institutions for a certain period may be exempt from English language tests like IELTS or TOEFL.

5. Can I get permanent residency (PR) after studying in New Zealand?

Yes, graduates may apply for a post-study work visa, which can lead to skilled employment and potential pathways to PR, depending on their job role and industry demand.

6. What is the cost of living for students in New Zealand?

The average cost of living for a student is around NZ$20,000 to NZ$27,000 per year, depending on lifestyle and city choice. Cities like Auckland and Wellington tend to be more expensive.

7. Do New Zealand universities offer January intakes?

Most universities in New Zealand have two main intakes, basically February and July. However, some institutions may offer rolling or additional intakes for specific courses.