Your online study options
Many courses are available online for students who are unable to come to campus. There are some exceptions for courses where face-to-face learning is an essential part of your study.
International students studying online in their home country can study part time.
Explore undergraduate degrees
Discover the undergraduate degrees that you can start online at Victoria University of Wellington.
Explore undergraduate degreesExplore postgraduate programmes
See which of our 140 postgraduate qualifications you can start online at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.
See postgraduate programmes
Explore our scholarships
We award more than NZ$12 million in scholarships each year. Scholarship applications for Trimester 1 2023 are now open.
Explore scholarshipsPopular programmes by distance
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Master of Professional Accounting
Add accountancy to your existing skillset or take the next step in your career. No accountancy experience is needed for this globally recognised qualification.
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Bachelor of Commerce
You’ll get a strong foundation in private business and public administration, and gain skills in communication, teamwork, and leadership.
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Master of Public Policy
Learn about policy design and analysis from professionals involved in government decisions to make a difference locally, nationally, and internationally.
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Master of Global Business
Build on any undergraduate degree and get a global perspective on modern business theory, practice, and strategy.
Your online experience
When you study online, you will be part of our wider university community. Classes are taught by distance through the University’s Nuku online learning environment and the Canvas learning management system, which connects you with your lecturers, tutors, classmates, and learning activities. If timezone differences allow, classes may be delivered live via Zoom. Some classes, however, may only be available as pre-recorded lectures.
We offer support for all students taking classes online, wherever you are in the world. If you're studying overseas, you can access our international offshore student support page for more information. Get advice and tips for online learning and help with other support queries from our International Support team.
Studying remotely can be challenging, but all my tutors and lecturers are patient and supportive. It also means I have enjoyed weekend outings with my parents at home in China—a memorable experience.
Yuelin Yao, China
Data Science and Statistics
Online learning—the way of the future
While studying online is the new normal for students around the world, academic Dr Anne Yates weighs up what this means for the future.
Read moreStudent visas
You do not need a visa to study online outside New Zealand. If you plan to come to New Zealand to continue your study on campus, you must then apply for a student visa. You must have a valid visa before you can enter New Zealand.
To be eligible for the post-study work rights visa, students must study on campus in New Zealand for at least 30 weeks.
For the latest information about New Zealand border and visa processing, go to the Immigration New Zealand website.
Contact us
If you have any questions about your online study options, talk to us. Our international team is here to help.
Ask us about online studyHow to apply
Follow our steps to apply for a degree, a pathway programme, or the Study Abroad and Exchange programme.
Apply now
Studying in person
Online study is a great learning opportunity, and may be a pathway to future study in person. We are working closely with the New Zealand Government to explore options that would allow international students to come into New Zealand.
Read our COVID-19 updates