Graduate Certificate
Antarctic Studies is an internationally unique programme of study and inquiry that has been developed by staff at Te Whare Wananga 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.
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.
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.