The Science Capstone Project (SCIEN301) allows students to participate an interdisciplinary group project on a topic of relevance to the scientific or wider community. It is an excellent entry experience into the world of academic science research, and ideal for students who are looking for a career where their science knowledge will be used in a more applied manner.

Available only in B trimester (July to November)

The Programme

Highlights include:

  • Flexibility to choose from a range of research topics
  • Hone your ability to conduct independent research and communicate results through a written research report
  • Work with world-renowned faculty in areas of animal behaviour, chemistry, coastal processes, earth sciences, ecology and biodiversity, environmental sciences, hydrology and more.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for this study option, students must:

  • Be a science major
  • Be in your third (3rd) year of study or higher
  • Be self-motivated to research in a group as well as independently

Current Research Projects

Check out the latest Capstone Science Research Projects available to students.

Please note: some projects listed are for C Trimester. Those projects are not open to Study Abroad & Exchange students.

NOTE: Rēkohu - Chatham Islands Project

The application deadline for the Rēkohu - Chatham Islands project is March 1. Applications received after this deadline will be put on a waitlist.

There is an additional fee associated with this project as you will need to fly to and stay on the Chatham Islands for two weeks (organised by the University). The cost usually sits around $3000 (NZD) but will be confirmed closer to the trip.

Application Process

After you have accepted your Offer of Place to study at Waikato (in your MyWaikato account), you will need to submit your paper (course) selection.

  1. Enrol into SCIEN301 - Capstone Project
  2. Once enrolled, visit MyWIL to select your preferred Capstone Project
  3. Email hecs-wil@waikato.ac.nz (CC studyabroad@waikato.ac.nz) with the following information:
    1. State your major
    2. Research topic/area of focus and a brief outline of your applicable knowledge
    3. State that you are a Study Abroad and Exchange Student who is confirmed to study with us
    4. Include your Waikato Student ID.

Ready to Apply?

Science Research Package Programmes: Project + Papers

We offer curated packages for students wanting to specialise in their specific field of study and hone their scientific skills.

  1. Enrol in Capstone Research Project (SCIEN301)
  2. Combine it with three other papers suggested in your chosen science subject area

Contact us

Study Abroad and Exchange