Debsoc is the University of Canterbury Debating Society. It is the oldest society on campus (founded in 1878) and actually hosted the first social event (the Debating Society Dance). Debsoc is aimed towards the development of critical analysis, persuasive skills, and public speaking in a formal environment.

Membership is open to all University of Canterbury students, and the society includes students from a wide variety of studies. Debsoc is particularly useful for law students because it fosters skills that complement those required to succeed in law including analytical argument, reasoning by analogy and public speaking ability. That is why law firms such as Russell McVeagh sponsor and take a keen interest in debaters.

Debsoc offers members the chance to participate and learn the art of debate through a range of debating and ‘R & D' (research and development) training nights. This includes the opportunity to compete in Debsoc's round robin tournament (the JB Cup) which exposes beginner and intermediate debaters to a range of styles in a competitive environment designed to increase your experience. There are also in house tournaments run to give an introduction to tournament style debating. From this Debsoc represents Canterbury University on a national and international level in various debating tournaments.

Canterbury Debsoc caters to a range of abilities from beginners wanting confidence, to international competition at the highest levels.