Undergraduate Subjects
We offer a comprehensive range of science subjects in our internationally-recognised undergraduate degrees. These modern and innovative programmes will equip you with the skills and knowledge needed for a successful career in science.
Our flexible undergraduate degrees allow students to cover a range of science subjects in their first year, before selecting one or two of these to concentrate on for the remainder of their degree. This ensures that students develop both a good breadth and depth of scientific knowledge. Across all of our subjects is a commitment to hands-on practical learning, with a high proportion of field trips, laboratories and computer workshops.
Check out our subjects below and please don't hesitate to get in contact if you would like more information about what it's like to study science at Waikato.
Animal Behaviour
Knowledge of animal behaviour is important for anyone interested in areas such as conservation biology of native birds, the control of pest species, evolutionary biology, population ecology and the efficient and humane management of farm animals.
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Applied Physics
A minor in Applied Physics will provide you with a broad introduction to physics principles and concepts, and is designed to strengthen and broaden a subject major in Earth Sciences, Biology or Chemistry.
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Aquaculture
By studying Aquaculture as a major at the University of Waikato’s Tauranga campus, you will be at the centre of New Zealand’s prime growth area for aquaculture.
Find out moreBehaviour Analysis
Behaviour Analysis is a scientific approach to understanding why people and animals do what they do. Studying behaviour analysis will teach you how both animal and human behaviour is affected by events in the social and physical environment and what you can do to produce behaviour change to help improve lives. Knowledge of this science of behaviour and its behaviour-change technology will assist you in a variety of careers.
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Biochemistry
Biochemistry – the study of life in chemical terms – is one of the fastest growing areas of modern science. You'll learn about the fundamental molecules of life – proteins, lipids, carbohydrates and nucleic acids – seeking to understand how they interact in living organisms, both in health and disease.
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Biological Sciences
As a Biological Sciences student at the University of Waikato you will benefit from our practical and innovative approach to teaching, as well as one-on-one time with world-renowned researchers.
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Chemistry
Chemistry is fundamental to our understanding of all branches of science and for a wide range of industries. A degree in Chemistry from the University of Waikato means you'll gain an excellent grasp of Chemistry theory, supported by a strong emphasis on practical expertise.
Find out moreClimate Change
There is no Planet B. Learn how climate change is affecting our lives and how by studying at the University of Waikato, you can make a difference.
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Coastal Processes
Examine the processes and factors that control coastal landforms, resources and hazards, evaluate human effects, and identify and assess options to avoid or mitigate adverse impacts.
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Earth Sciences
The demand for experts in Earth Sciences continues to grow as we look to better manage our soil, water, minerals, energy and coastal and marine resources, as well as understand natural hazards such as floods, earthquakes, tsunami, landslides and volcanic eruptions.
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Ecology and Biodiversity
In studying Ecology and Biodiversity you’ll learn about the distribution, abundance, and biology of organisms and their role in New Zealand’s most important ecosystems.
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Electronics
Science graduates with electronics skills are sought after by many industries that use or manufacture electronic equipment. New Zealand’s electronics manufacturing industry is one of the fastest-growing industries in the country. Our companies are targeting niche markets, such as telecommunications, and exporting their products all over the world.
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Environmental Sciences
The pressure on our environment is increasing as the human population grows. Environmental Sciences provide a basis for understanding environmental problems, and finding solutions to them.
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Geology
Modern society is very dependent on mineral and energy resources, including aggregates and cement for construction, metals for manufacturing, rare earths for electronics and batteries, and energy for operating equipment.
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Hydrology
By studying Hydrology at the University of Waikato, you’ll understand the key components of water storage and water movement on and beneath the surface of the Earth, and the role of water in weather and climate. You’ll also learn about flood and drought hazards.
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Marine Science
This exciting new subject covers the science of marine systems including ecology, physical processes, ecosystem restoration and conservation.
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Materials and Processing
Efficiently converting the world’s raw materials and commodity goods into products is important to the global economy. To do this, we need to understand the properties of materials as diverse as food, wood, metals, plastics and fuel.
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Materials Science
Explore the world of metals, polymers, ceramics, composites and semiconductors. From levitating trains to electronic paper, there are some exciting developments underway in the world of Materials Science that you could be a part of!
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Molecular and Cellular Biology
Molecular and Cellular Biology is an interdisciplinary field combining biochemistry, microbiology, genetics and physiology to study how cells function at the molecular level.
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Physics
Physics aims to understand the entire physical world, from the sub-atomic to the cosmological.
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Psychology
Psychology is about understanding the behaviour and cognitive processes of people and animals in their physical, social and organisational environment. As a behavioural science, it examines the way behaviour is learned and can be changed. As a social science, it focuses on individuals within the context of families, organisations and other groups, communities, cultures and societies. As a biological science, it studies the senses (hearing, vision, touch) and how the brain and physiological systems relate to behaviour. As a cognitive science it studies perception, attention, memory, thinking and language understanding. The study of development, personality, learning and motivation are also part of Psychology.
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From the natural environment, to our own health and wellbeing, to the technology we use in our everyday lives – science is everywhere.
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Soil Science
The growing global population is very dependent on increasing production of food and fibre from soils around the world.
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