Master of Engineering
ME
Duration
1–3 years full-time
Entry times
Semester 1 or 2 (February or July)
Fees Estimate
Scholarships
Pathways
Pathways include:
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Download Brochure
Duration
1–3 years full-time
Entry times
Semester 1 or 2 (February or July)
Fees Estimate
Scholarships
Pathways
Pathways include:
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Download Brochure
Overview
This endorsed research degree is completed by coursework and a thesis. It aims to provide a research-focused learning environment in which students can develop their independent problem solving skills through supervised research. The degree may be awarded with Distinction.
Study in a number of advanced Engineering courses will provide each student with key technical knowledge to enhance and support their research activities.
The Master of Engineering degree is awarded as an endorsed degree in an area of specialisation:
- Bioengineering
- Chemical and Process Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Construction Management
- Earthquake Engineering
- Electrical and Electronic Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Software Engineering
UC is ranked 285th in the world for Engineering and Technology, and in the top 300 universities in the world for Chemical Engineering and Electrical and Electronic Engineering (QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2020).
UC is also ranked 9th in the world for Civil Engineering (Academic Ranking of World Universities, 2020), and in the top 100 universities in the world for Civil and Structural Engineering (QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2021).
Students must normally have completed one of the following:
- Bachelor of Engineering with Honours with First or Second Class Honours
- Bachelor of Science with Honours with First or Second Class Honours, in relevant subjects
- Postgraduate Certificate in Engineering with a GPA of 5 or more.
Students wishing to enrol in postgraduate study must have completed both the academic and non-academic requirements of the prerequisite degree. This includes practical work days, work reports, a workshop training course, and a first aid certificate. The programme of study must be approved by the College of Engineering Dean (Academic).
If English is your additional language, are also required to meet UC's English language requirements.
A special application is required for this programme – see 'How to apply' below.
For the full entry requirements, see the Regulations for the Master of Engineering or use the admission requirements checker.
How to apply
You will need to complete an application form for the ME from Te Rāngai Pūkaha | College of Engineering website. The deadline for applications for the ME is:
- 10 January (for the February intake)
- 15 June (for the July intake).
Find out more about how to apply for graduate and postgraduate qualifications.
The Master of Engineering (ME) includes a thesis from your chosen endorsement of 120 points, and up to 45 points of coursework.
See Schedule C for thesis requirements and compulsory courses for each endorsement, and Schedule E for course options up to 45 points that best support your research.
Study for the degree will normally be full-time, but the College of Engineering Dean (Academic) may approve part-time enrolment. ME students can complete in 1 year or a maximum of 3 years full-time. For part-time study the duration can vary between 3–4 years.
Students can study a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in:
- Bioengineering
- Chemical and Process Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Earthquake Engineering
- Electrical and Electronic Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
Postgraduate study can bring many career benefits eg, specialist skills and enhanced knowledge, entry into specific occupations, higher starting salary/progression rates, research capability/achievement, and evidence of high academic attainment/self-discipline.
Useful information:
- Read what other UC postgraduate students have gone on to achieve in their studies and careers in our student and graduate profiles.
- Te Rōpū Rapuara | UC Careers can help you to achieve the career you want, connect with employers, or find a job.
- For research into career destinations by qualification, visit Te Pōkai Tara | Universities New Zealand website.
- Find out more about what you can do with a degree from UC.
- Come along to an upcoming information event for prospective postgraduate students.
See Tuition Fee Structure for more information
| Year | Points | Info | Fees (NZD) |
| 2020 | 120 | Banded Fee - total tuition fee dependent on course selection | $8,814 |
| 2021 | 120 | Banded Fee - total tuition fee dependent on course selection | $8,911 |
| Year | Points | Info | Fees (NZD) |
| 2020 | 168 | Special (Set) Programme Fee | $61,600 |
| 2021 | 168 | Special (Set) Programme Fee | $61,600 |
Contact us
For full requirements, see the Regulations for the Master of Engineering.
For study planning help, contact the College of Engineering:
Te Rāngai Pūkaha | College of Engineering
Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | University of Canterbury
Private Bag 4800
Christchurch 8140
New Zealand
Phone +64 3 369 4222
Email collegeofengineering@canterbury.ac.nz