Instituted in the year 1902, the Universal College of Learning imparts quality education at the diploma, undergraduate and master’s level. This institution specialises in the fields of health and sciences, humanities, business and applied engineering and trade. This college has affiliated with many local businesses to ensure that its students receive adequate work experience during their education. Additionally, it has established a strong partnership with several corporations, such as Jets Manawatu, Whanganui Tertiary Education Collaboration, International Association of Universities and Horowhenua Learning Centre. Other prominent industry partners of this institution are NZ Chefs, Manawatu Hospitality Awards and Visual Paradigm. It is also known for its research programmes and its cutting-edge research facilities. Lucrative certificate programmes such as the New Zealand Certificate in Study and Career Preparation and the New Zealand Certificate in Business (Administration and Technology) are also available in this institution.

This institution has its campuses in four prime locations, namely Whanganui, Wairarapa, Manawatu and Horowhenua. Each of these campuses is equipped with numerous student-friendly amenities to ensure that the students have a safe and balanced academic life. The UCOL Manawatu Campus is an amalgamation of historical architecture and contemporary facilities. This campus offers facilities such as hair salon and dining facility and is proximate to many cafes and bus stops. The campus in Horowhenua has an active student association that organises many recreational activities. Apart from this, the UCOL Whanganui Campus is home to the Visions Training Restaurant, and the students can avail the benefits of free bus transport within this campus. The Wairarapa Campus has many cafes and other recreational spots around it. This campus provides child-care facilities and has a hair and beauty salon on it. UCOL offers a plethora of scholarships to deserving students.

There are many scholarship opportunities available according to the campus of this institution. International students can too avail the benefits of different financial aids offered by it. Some of the scholarship opportunities for the students are Education New Zealand Scholarship, a special fee discount for the Cookery programmes in the Whanganui Campus and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Apart from this, there are several art, horticulture and rainbow scholarships schemes available.

This institution is home to many notable names that have created a significant career for themselves. The alumni of UCOL have pioneered in society and are leading successful careers for themselves. Some of the famous alumni of this institution are Community Coordinator Heidi Macaulay, Shift Manager Moana Heremaia and Sumeet Kaushal. The UCOL Alumni Community maintains a strong relationship with the graduates of this institution and organizes many events for them.