The University of Waikato is performing against the odds, with an increase in student enrolments for 2023 despite Ministry Funded Equivalent Full-Time Student (EFTS) numbers being down slightly (1%) on last year.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Neil Quigley says Waikato’s student numbers are up 2.7% this year, thanks largely to international students and those taking up postgraduate study.
“It’s great to see the return of our international students, with onshore international EFTS overall up 22% on this time last year. We are really seeing the vibrancy and energy that comes from having all our students back on campus, and we’re particularly happy to welcome those students enrolling in postgraduate study, which is up 11% on last year.”
Professor Quigley says the University has also seen increases in areas where Waikato has a particular strength in teaching, including law, engineering and nursing. The Bachelor of Nursing saw a 68% increase in enrolments, while the Master of Nursing Practice, in only its second year being offered, has experienced a 184% increase in numbers.
Professor Quigley says while returning student numbers are down on the same time last year, there are a number of factors influencing this including a very buoyant job market and disruptions relating to Covid-19.”
Professor Quigley says the University’s school-leaver numbers are the same as last year at about 1,200 students, which is encouraging given the total volume of qualified school leavers was down in 2022.
The University’s total immersion Māori language programme, Te Tohu Paetahi, has continued its strong pattern of growth with enrolments up 15% on last year. The number of Māori and Pacific students remains consistent with last year with around 26% and 9% of overall Ministry Funded EFTS respectively.
“We are and continue to be an inclusive, supportive and welcoming place of learning for all our students,” Professor Quigley says.
Particular stand out qualifications among new students in 2023 are:
- Bachelor of Laws: up 20%
- Bachelor of Engineering with Honours: up 19%
- Bachelor of Nursing: up 68%
- Master of Nursing Practice: up 184%
- Diploma in Te Tohu Paetahi: up 15%
