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Study Abroad Center, 3224 Memorial Union, (515) 294-6792
Semester in New Zealand - Massey University Massey University Photo Album Massey University, located on the northern island of New Zealand, offers students the opportunity to study at one of three campuses.
The University and Cities
Massey University was established as an agricultural college in 1927. By 1963, it was granted full university status and began a period of expansion that led Massey to be considered one of New Zealand's leading educational institutions. In 1993, Massey University established its second campus in Auckland and in 1999 merged with Wellington Polytechnic to form its Wellington campus. With three campuses offering courses in Business, Sciences, Creative Arts and Technology, Humanities and Social Sciences, and Education, Massey University offers an educational experience as diverse as New Zealand itself.
The Manawatu campus at Palmerston North has roughly 11,000 students. It is New Zealand's premiere and largest institution for the life, agricultural, horticultural, and veterinary sciences and is a leader in the areas of food sciences, biotechnology, and advanced material sciences.
The Auckland campus at Albany has unique Mediterranean-style architecture. As the second largest campus with 6,400 students, Massey at Albany offers 70 majors and a number of specialized programs including Mathematics and Information Sciences, Fundamental Sciences, Food Technology, Engineering, Design, Jazz, Social Sciences, Business, and Education. The Wellington campus with nearly 4,400 students focuses on four academic areas including Creative and Performing Arts; Health, Policy and Practice; Business and Enterprise; and IT and Engineering. The Wellington campus will be of unique interest to design students as it is home to the oldest and most renowned school of design in New Zealand (established in 1886).
Palmerston North, Auckland, and Wellington
Palmerston North is located on the lower peninsula of the north island of New Zealand and is home to the oldest of the three Massey university campuses. Being the fourth largest city (75,000) on the north island, "Palmy" has become a true young person's city with a variety of cafes, restaurants, parks, theatres, and vibrant nightlife. Students find that Palmerston North is conveniently located near to some of the north island's best mountain bike trails, not to mention the west coast beaches, Hawke's Bay wine region, the capital city of Wellington, and skiing/snowboarding at Mt. Ruapehu.
Auckland is the largest city in New Zealand with about one third of New Zealanders living in the greater Auckland area (pop. 1.25 million). Located on the northern tip of New Zealand, the "City of Sails" is surrounded by extinct volcanoes and countless islands. Truly one of the world's most spectacular harbor cities, the view from atop the southern hemisphere's tallest building, the Sky Tower, is not to be missed. In addition to spectacular views from above, Auckland is a vibrant city below with countless restaurants, shopping centers, and museums including the best Maori and Polynesian exhibit in the world at the Auckland Museum.
Wellington (pop. 163, 824), the nation's capital and home to Massey University's newest campus, is a beautiful and modern city. Located on the southern tip of the north island between a stunning harbor and lush, green hills you will find the political and cultural center of New Zealand. Make sure to visit Te Papa Tongarewa, one of the world's premiere museums, take in an All Blacks rugby game at Westpac Stadium, head to the beach to relax after classes, or visit one of the many art festivals that take place throughout the year.
Academic program
The Semester in New Zealand program is offered both spring and fall semesters. Semesters at New Zealand universities run from February to June and July to November. Dates vary each year. An orientation week will be held prior to the commencement of courses. This orientation will assist students in preparing for the academic and cultural experience ahead. Students then enroll in regular courses offered by the university.
There may also be an opportunity for students to gain additional academic credit by attending a J-term "summer" course at University of Otago before joining the Massey Feb-June semester. For more information, go to: Otago J-term.
Academic credit earned at Massey University does transfer to Iowa State University. Study abroad students must enroll for the equivalent of a "full-load" of courses while studying at Massey. A "full-load" is typically 3 or 4 courses and is generally equivalent to 12 or 16 semester hours of credit at ISU. Courses are called papers at Massey.
Accommodation options Students may apply for a variety of housing options, including on-campus, off-campus, and homestays. Board plans and costs vary. (Note: on-campus accommodation is not guaranteed.)
Photos (from top to bottom) Auckland Massey University, Albany Campus, Auckland Massey University, Palmerston North Campus View from Mt. Ruapehu, North Island Waiheke Island, near Auckland