Bridging Programmes

Bridging Programmes

Overview of the Certificate in University Preparation

The Certificate in University Preparation (CUP) is a thirteen week programme of study.

It is designed for New Zealand citizens or permanent residents who do not meet the requirements for university entry through their existing qualifications, or have been out of school for many years.

Students who successfully complete the programme will be eligible to apply for entry to 100 level courses at the University of Canterbury.

Why study for the CUP?

The CUP courses will help students to develop the skills necessary for successful university study, including:
  • study and time-management skills
  • oral and written communication skills for a variety of contexts CUP Students
  • analytical, critical and problem solving skills
  • information literacy skills
  • interpersonal, group and teamwork skills
  • an appreciation of New Zealand's diverse cultural environment
  • acquiring background knowledge specific to degree programmes

CUP courses provide an inclusive and supportive learning environment to help students develop their confidence to succeed at university.

There are three intakes of CUP - in February, in June and October.

Class Times

Classes are held Monday to Friday and will normally be scheduled between 9am and 6pm.

Course requirements

The CUP programme is taught through lectures, tutorials, seminars, exercises and group tasks. The full time programme will involve 16-18 hours of classes per week, plus approximately 24 hours of self-directed learning. CUP papers are designed for native English speakers or those with equivalent fluency. Students from non-English speaking backgrounds are advised to discuss their suitability for this course with a University Liaison Officer Phone 03 364 2993 or 0800 103 109 for an appointment.

Part-time study

While it is desirable to complete the CUP full-time in one semester, it is possible to study it part-time. Part-time students are strongly recommended to take the core course BRDG006 - in their first semester of study because it develops many of the communication, research and study skills necessary for the successful university degree study.

Please note that limited entry applies