Massey University

University Overview

Massey University is New Zealand's largest university by number of qualifications offered and the only university in the country with campuses in three major cities: Auckland, Palmerston North, and Wellington. Ranked 230th globally in the QS World University Rankings 2026, Massey is recognised as a leading research institution with particular strength in agriculture, veterinary science, creative arts, aviation, food technology, and public policy. With approximately 27,800 students, including a significant international student community, Massey ranks 71st globally for International Student Ratio in QS 2026.

Massey is unique among New Zealand universities in offering programmes in aviation, dispute resolution, veterinary science, nanoscience, and defence studies. The university's commitment to distance and online learning — developed over 60 years makes it a popular choice for students who need flexible study arrangements. Massey's College of Creative Arts, located in Wellington, is internationally recognised as a leader in design, fine arts, and creative practice.

Why Choose Massey University?

Massey University offers the broadest range of programmes of any New Zealand university, with exceptional depth in areas such as veterinary science, agricultural science, food technology, aviation, and creative arts. Its campuses in Auckland, Palmerston North, and Wellington allow students to experience different parts of New Zealand while completing their studies. Massey ranks in the top 500 globally and in the top 100 for International Students Ratio. Industry links, research collaborations, and hands-on learning ensure that Massey graduates are highly employable. The university's extensive distance education network means qualifications are accessible to students across the world.

Highlights

• Ranked #230 globally in QS World University Rankings 2026 — 3rd in New Zealand
• Ranked 71st globally for International Student Ratio (QS 2026)
• New Zealand's only provider of degrees in aviation, veterinary science, and nanoscience
• Campuses in Auckland, Palmerston North, and Wellington
• Internationally respected College of Creative Arts in Wellington
• Over 60 years of experience in distance and flexible learning
• Broadest range of qualifications of any New Zealand university

Study Pathways

Massey University offers undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across six colleges: Business, Creative Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences, Health, Sciences, and Veterinary Science. Unique programmes include the Bachelor of Aviation, Bachelor of Veterinary Science (BVSc), Bachelor of Food Technology, and Bachelor of Dispute Resolution.

Foundation and Bridging Programmes

Massey's academic bridging programmes help students who do not meet direct entry requirements to build the academic skills and subject knowledge needed for degree study. These programmes are available in Auckland, Palmerston North, and Wellington.

Flexible Distance Learning

Massey offers a full suite of distance and online programmes at undergraduate and postgraduate levels, making it one of the most accessible universities in New Zealand for international students studying from their home countries.

Admission Requirements

Undergraduate applicants must hold a recognised university entrance qualification equivalent to New Zealand NCEA Level 3, or an approved international equivalent. Specific programmes such as Veterinary Science and Aviation have competitive entry requirements. Postgraduate applicants require a relevant bachelor's degree.

English Language Requirements

IELTS 6.0 overall (no band below 5.5) for most undergraduate programmes; IELTS 6.5 (no band below 6.0) for postgraduate study; higher scores may be required for health and veterinary programmes.

Scholarships at Massey University

Vice-Chancellor's Scholarship

Merit-based recognition for outstanding academic achievement in undergraduate study.

Massey International Excellence Scholarship

Partial tuition support for high-achieving international undergraduate students.

College-specific Scholarships

Available across Business, Creative Arts, Sciences, Health, and Veterinary Science.

Doctoral Scholarships

Full tuition and stipend support for PhD candidates across all colleges.

Career Outcomes

Massey graduates are valued across a diverse range of industries, from agribusiness and food technology to creative industries, healthcare, aviation, and public policy. The university's strong industry partnerships and applied learning approach ensure graduates are work-ready. Career services on all three campuses provide job placement support, networking events, mentorship programmes, and internship facilitation. Massey alumni are employed in leading roles across New Zealand, Australia, the United Kingdom, Asia, and beyond.

What Sets Us Apart

New Zealand's Specialist Programmes

Massey is the only New Zealand university offering degrees in aviation, veterinary science, nanoscience, dispute resolution, and defence studies making it the go-to institution for students pursuing these distinctive career paths.

College of Creative Arts

Massey's internationally recognised Wellington School of Design and College of Creative Arts is a leading force in the Asia-Pacific creative industries. Students benefit from world-class studio facilities, an innovative curriculum, and strong connections with the New Zealand and global creative sectors.

Distance Learning Pioneer

With over 60 years of experience in distance education, Massey has developed some of the most sophisticated online learning platforms in New Zealand, enabling students to complete full degrees flexibly, regardless of where they live.