Postgraduate Certificate in Antarctic Studies
PGCertAntaStud
Duration
14 weeks full-time
Entry times
November
Fees Estimate
Scholarships
Pathways
Pathways include:
- Master of Antarctic Studies
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Download Brochure
Duration
14 weeks full-time
Entry times
November
Fees Estimate
Scholarships
Pathways
Pathways include:
- Master of Antarctic Studies
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Download Brochure
Overview
Antarctic Studies is an internationally unique programme of study and inquiry that has been developed by staff at Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | University of Canterbury in collaboration with business, government, industry, iwi, and non-profit organisations working in Antarctica and the Antarctic community in Ōtautahi Christchurch.
The Postgraduate Certificate in Antarctic Studies attracts graduate students from a diverse range of disciplines and draws on the expertise of over thirty academic staff and guest speakers.
You will examine major scientific and environmental themes, as well as contemporary topics such as the major social, political, and legal issues facing Antarctica.
As part of the course, you will work directly with Antarctic organisations to apply your discipline-specific skills and your growing knowledge of Antarctica during Antarctic community placements. This course also offers the opportunity to work with world-leading Antarctic researchers on projects that further the protection and understanding of Antarctica and the Southern Ocean.
You must have a bachelor's degree to enrol.
If English is your additional language, you are also required to meet UC's English language requirements.
The programme is limited to 16 places and a special application is required (see below).
For the full entry requirements, see the Regulations for the Postgraduate Certificate in Antarctic Studies or use the admission requirements checker.
How to apply
Considering the limited spaces available in the programme each year, entry into the programme is competitive. You will need to complete the application form on the Gateway Antarctica website by 19 September. You will also need to provide certified copies of your academic transcripts with your application. Two letters of reference have to be sent directly to Gateway Antarctica from your referees that you nominate as part of your application.
A decision on whether your application has been successful will be made in early September.
Find out more about how to apply for graduate and postgraduate qualifications.
The PGCertAntaStud involves three compulsory courses within 14 weeks of full-time study, starting mid-November and finishing late March.
You may choose to transfer your completed courses from the PGCertAntaStud to the Master of Antarctic Studies during or after completing the certificate programme.
For full requirements, see the Regulations for the Postgraduate Certificate in Antarctic Studies.
To complete the Postgraduate Certificate in Antarctic Studies, you must complete the following courses (please note the 2023 occurrences for these courses will become available in October this year):
UC also offers a Master of Antarctic Studies and a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Antarctic Studies.
Students may choose to transfer their completed courses from the PGCertAntaStud to the Master of Antarctic Studies during or after completing the certificate programme.
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) |
| 2024 | 60 | Fee estimate. | $4,577 |
| 2023 | 60 | Fee estimate. | $4,454 |
| Year | Points | Info | Fees (NZD) |
| 2024 | 60 | $21,500 | |
| 2023 | 60 | $20,500 |
Contact us
For full requirements, see the Regulations for the Postgraduate Certificate in Antarctic Studies.
For study planning help, contact Te Kura Aronukurangi | School of Earth and Environment.
Te Kaupeka Pūtaiao | Faculty of Science
Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | University of Canterbury
Private Bag 4800
Christchurch 8140
New Zealand
Phone +64 3 369 4141
Email science@canterbury.ac.nz