Course details

Bachelor of Science (Technology)
NZQF Level 7

About the course

The Bachelor of Science (Technology) offers practical, relevant work experience, integrating theoretical learning with hands-on experience for a seamless transition into your chosen career. The BSc(Tech) is a flexible degree, designed to provide you with the necessary practical experience to stand out among other science graduates. This degree includes 10 weeks of relevant work experience. Our Work Placement Team assists in matching students with placement opportunities, and offering reflective learning and skill development after the placements are completed.  Students are regularly offered permanent roles following their placements. Heading into the workplace with a BSc(Tech) from Waikato means you'll have spent the summer between your second and third years gaining relevant work experience and, in most cases, being paid for your efforts. To prepare you for the workplace and gain an understanding of how the business world works, the BSc(Tech) includes a workplace preparation paper prior to starting the work placement in addition to a wide variety of science papers. The first year of the degree is similar to the , enabling you to explore a range of scientific disciplines, broaden your opportunities and lay a foundation for you to build on, even if you haven't studied science before. From second year your major will form the core of your degree and give you a much deeper understanding of a particular discipline. Minor subjects enable you to design a tailored programme that helps you differentiate yourself and ensure you have a unique skill set. Our science minors will give you a taste of a complimentary discipline to broaden your knowledge and demonstrate the breadth of your scientific skills.  Alternatively, select a minor from a supporting non-science discipline to show employers you can apply yourself in a range of fields. The University of Waikato’s School of Science is home to a suite of well-equipped laboratories. Most science papers include weekly laboratory sessions, giving you the chance to put what you’ve learnt in lectures and tutorials into practice. Our undergraduate students also have the opportunity to use complex research equipment and techniques, such as NMR spectroscopy and DNA sequencing.

About the provider

Established in 1964, the University of Waikato is recognised as the top university in ±¬×ߺÚÁÏ for research, ranked in the top three universities in ±¬×ߺÚÁÏ and 235th globally in the QS World University Rankings 2025.

The University of Waikato has over 2,000 placements or industry-led projects per year, and strong partnerships across government, industry and community organizations, thereby providing students with wider career options and practical learning opportunities.

The university features two vibrant campuses in Hamilton and Tauranga, both located in the heart of New Zealand's export-driven economy. These campuses offer a lively, inclusive atmosphere that fosters a supportive community where students can thrive academically and socially, making it easy for them to feel right at home while pursuing their studies.


Top 10 reasons to study at Waikato

  1. International Recognition: Ranked among the top 3 universities in ±¬×ߺÚÁÏ and 235th globally (QS World University Rankings 2025).
  2. Subject Rankings: 11 subjects ranked in the top 350 globally (QS Subject Rankings 2025); ranked in the 151–175 band globally for Business & Economics (THE Subject Rankings 2025)—the highest for any NZ university.
  3. Research Excellence: Recognised as the top university in ±¬×ߺÚÁÏ for research (QS World University Rankings 2025).
  4. Triple Crown Accreditation: Waikato Management School is accredited by AACSB, EQUIS, and AMBA, placing it in the top 1% of business schools globally.
  5. Academic Excellence: Learn fromaward-winning lecturers and researchers in a close-knit academic community known for innovative teaching and learning..
  6. Flexible Degree Structure: Choose from over 100 subjects to shape a qualification and 200 programs including bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral degrees, diplomas, and certificates —tailored to suit your strengths and career goals.
  7. Industry Connections: Benefit from over 2,000 industry placements and projects annually through strong partnerships with government, business, and community organisations. Access career and employability services to graduate job-ready.
  8. Student Support & Campus Life: Vibrant campuses in Hamilton and Tauranga offer modern facilities, easy access to nature, and dedicated student support—including international advisors, tutors, career services, and a buddy programme.
  9. ±¬×ߺÚÁÏ and Bursaries: A range of scholarships available to support both domestic and international students.
  10. Inclusive Student Community: Be part of a welcoming, diverse environment with 70+ clubs and 120+ societies covering academics, culture, sports, and more. Waikato is highly recommended by students, with excellent satisfaction ratings in the 2023 Student Barometer Survey.

Hamilton is a vibrant, student-friendly city located in the heart of ±¬×ߺÚÁÏ’s North Island. Surrounded by stunning nature, students can enjoy scenic parks, hiking trails, and the famous Hobbiton movie set nearby. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, multicultural community, and welcoming vibe making it a perfect place for students to live, study and explore.

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Tauranga is a beautiful coastal city in New Zealand's Bay of Plenty, offering students a perfect mix of urban living and outdoor adventure. With its stunning beaches, outdoor activities like hiking and water sports and a warm, sunny climate, it’s an ideal place for students looking to explore, learn and live in a welcoming environment.

Check out a range of available on our campuses.

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