Ko Mātou

About UCOL

The experience and success of our ākonga are at the heart of everything we do


For over 130 years, UCOL has been shaping futures and empowering our communities.

Since 1892, we’ve grown into a leading institute with more than 5,000 students and 400 dedicated staff across four vibrant campuses.

Our reputation for excellence in vocational education is built on strong industry partnerships and hands-on learning experiences that prepare students for real-world success.


Our specialities include Applied Engineering, Trades, Health and Sciences, Humanities, Early Childhood Education, and Business. Every learning environment is designed to inspire and support achievement, with relationship-based teaching at the heart of what we do.


At UCOL, ākonga are at the centre of everything. Their success is our purpose, and we’re proud to help students learn with confidence and create a future full of possibilities.

Dig deeper into UCOL

Learn more about the things spinning our wheels.

Te Atakura

UCOL's culturally responsive, relationships-based approach, grounded in research and guided by kaupapa Māori values, towards achieving ōritetanga (equity) within tertiary education.

Publications

View our range of corporate and organisation wide publications here.

Graduation Ceremonies

Graduation at UCOL isn't just a ceremony; it's a vibrant milestone. Get all the details here.

Official Information Requests

If you're wanting information that's not available on our website, make an official information request here.

Work for UCOL

Learn about the different exciting job vacancies we have available, why you should join the UCOL whānau and begin your education career today.

Our Partnerships

Learn about the benefits of partnering with us and how we can work together today.

What we stand for

Providing life-changing opportunities for thousands of individuals, UCOL’s influence stretches far beyond our campus boundaries: across the globe and into the future.

Te Tirohanga Whakamua | The Vision

To be the skills engine driving the economic and social development of the Central North Island.

Te Whakatakanga | The Mission

Our mission is to transform the contribution vocational education makes to our country’s growth. We will work for a future that radiates high-value skills and wages, increased productivity, and a growing economy. Our journey will stretch boundaries. Employers and entrepreneurs will drive the skills that learners need. We will enable the learning and learner support that will deliver smart workers and sought-after graduates.

Ngā Whanonga Pono | Our Values

Whanaungatanga | Relationships ​

Connecting with people and establishing meaningful relationships built on trust and integrity is vital. Great relationships result in collaboration, partnerships and unity. At UCOL we embrace diversity and inclusivity of all people. ​

Kia Eke Panuku, Eke Tangaroa | Excellence ​

Everywhere we look at UCOL, we seek innovation and quality that defines us as a high-performing institute. We strive for excellence in our programmes, our teaching methods, our resources and systems and processes. We want to see people excelling at what they do and are proud of what we achieve. ​

Te Huringa Whakaaro | Transformation ​

Transformation requires inspiration, and bold, courageous behaviour. We take pride in being a part of the transformation that occurs in our students as they become successful graduates and alumni. UCOL is always looking at fresh ideas.​

Kia Kakamā | Agility ​

Agility is about us working in many different ways, being adaptable and agile in the way we work with others. Through engagement, empowerment and innovation we develop deeper understanding and discover new ways of achieving our goals.​