Success at Whitireia is all about people. That is why it includes here stories of how people associated with us have succeeded.
Successful students
Nine out of every ten of last year's students either are in a job or back at another course of study this year - and it still worries about that one 'other' student.
Every course it offers has a panel of advisors drawn from the community and potential employers to make sure that it is giving students the knowledge they will need to be successful. The education is relevant and able to be applied!
Successful researchers
The staff engage in research projects that extend their professional development and also add to the pool of knowledge available to the community.
Successful staff
Many of the staff put their skills to use outside the classroom, working on projects that benefit the community, creating works of art, winning plaudits for articles, research or developing new methods for doing things.
Whitireia is Supportive
Whitireia really cares that the students succeed. It, therefore, does the following:
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It makes sure you enrol on the correct course - the course that will give you the best chance of achieving your goals.
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It makes sure you start at the correct level - some students need to start in an introductory course, many of which are free, and some already have enough knowledge to start in one of the more advanced courses.
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It offers pathways from the introductory courses up to under graduate degree courses and in some case post graduate study.
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It employs the best tutors it can find to deliver the course material, and because of the small class sizes students can get personal assistance from tutors.
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It celebrates cultural differences on the campuses that is supportive to all people. The students can, therefore, adjust more easily to the multicultural world where they will live and work, both in New Zealand and overseas.
It provides a comprehensive range of support services for the students.
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The excellent library offers a quiet place for out of class room study and a range of quality resources.
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The Learning Skills Centre provides one-on-one tutoring assistance for students who need help with part of a programme, or learning to learn.
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The free online modules develop skills in basic computing, writing skills and information skills, which assist students with their studies.
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Language Skills assists students whose first language is not English, and of course it encourages all students to develop some knowledge of New Zealand's other official language, Maori.
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Any student who has a disability, illness or health problem that might interfere with their studies can get additional support to help them succeed.
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Counselling Service - a free and confidential service that sorts out many student problems before they become serious.
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Financial Advice - a service that assists students find the best way to fund their study, with scholarships, grants or loans, and to manage their finances while they study.
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Health Services - provide medical advice and assistance for students, including a full time nurse on some campuses and visiting doctors.
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A fully licensed child care centre at the main campus provides a caring learning environment for up to 30 children.
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It cares for international students from the time they step off the plane until they graduate and return home.
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It especially encourages Maori and Pacific people to gain the benefits of tertiary education with a range of assistance programmes.
Why Study at a Polytechnic?
Polytechnics deliver technical, vocational and professional education. They concentrate on student-focussed teaching, rather than research. Most of the classes are small, much of the learning is practical, and they all operate student support services. They keep track of student attendance and respond to students'; needs very promptly because they can offer a more personalised service.
They offer programmes at all levels - foundation, certificates, diplomas, degrees and some postgraduate opportunities. The most common qualifications they award are certificate and diplomas and they encourage students to build from lower qualifications to higher ones.
Their programmes are well
regarded by employers both in New Zealand
and internationally and many international
students return to their country to get a
great job.
They are very responsive to the needs of
local industries and businesses and can
develop and offer programmes quickly. They
are known for being innovative and creative.
