New Zealand has eight universities. All offer general undergraduate and graduate degrees and diplomas in arts, sciences and commerce, as well as specialist degrees in particular disciplines. The specialist disciplines offered by each university are identified in the University Guide.
Undergraduate degrees such as a BA (Bachelor of Arts) or a BSc (Bachelor of Science) take three to four years to complete. Vocational or professional training may take longer.
Each university publishes an annual Calendar detailing the courses scheduled during the academic year. These are held in the reference sections of most public libraries and can also be purchased from leading booksellers and university bookshops. Term dates vary between universities. University Calendars also specify fees and entry requirements.
All university students must be able to speak English and some universities have a set level of competency.