As New Zealand’s first university, founded in 1869, the University of Otago has earned an international reputation for excellence in research and teaching. Otago is ranked in the top 1% of universities in the world and has been placed in the top 100 for 13 subject areas including Anthropology, Anatomy and Physiology, Archaeology, Development Studies, Dentistry, Psychology and Sports-related subjects (QS World Rankings). At the University of Otago, you can enroll in a full undergraduate program, earn a postgraduate degree, or complete a PhD program. Learn more about program options below.

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Highlights

The University of Otago offers full degree programs in four academic divisions: Business, Health Science, Humanities and Science subjects.

Otago is New Zealand’s leading postgraduate research university located at the heart of the country’s education capital, Dunedin, offering 120+ postgraduate programs and can be completed in 12-15 months.

PhD students pay domestic fees and Otago is among the best internationally for doctoral degree completion rates

200+ course options, including a range of offerings with a unique New Zealand perspective.

The Dunedin campus is recognized as one of the top 5 most beautiful in the world (Times Higher Education, 2022)

Program Details

Why Otago University?

Otago University was established in 1869, and after more than 150 years the university is still leading the way when it comes to world-class teaching and a legendary student lifestyle. These two core elements set the University of Otago apart and is the reason students from across the country and around the world choose Otago.


Housing

Most first year students will stay in a University Residential College which is on- or near-campus dormitory-style accommodation. Postgraduate students are welcome to apply for any Residential College.

University Flats offers a shared flatting situation where a local host student lives with several international students. Uni Flats are the recommended option for Study Abroad and Exchange students.


Tean Staff

Our team works with you from start to finish throughout the application process. We assist with certification of documents required to submit an application and guide you through the entire process. We can assist with general questions relating to your move overseas. We also assist you with acceptance of application and preparation for your visa and enrollment.

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University

Otago University

  • Ranked in the TOP 1% of universities in the world (QS world rankings)
  • Rated top university in New Zealand for international student experience (International Student Barometer)
  • Otago is known for its state-of-the-art lecture theatres, research labs and libraries.
  • It is a safe and fun destination with friendly people, easy access to the outdoors, immersive experiences, and rich culture.

Location

  • The campus and residential colleges are located in the heart of Dunedin near cafés, music venues, designer boutiques and stores, museums and galleries
  • Although Dunedin is surrounded by hills, most of the central city is generally flat and easily accessible.  It’s a 10-minute walk from the campus, residential colleges and student flats into the center of town, and there is a good public transportation system covering all of the main suburbs.
  • The South Island has some of the world’s most picturesque scenery. Beaches, glaciers, lakes and fiords, and mountains with world-class ski resorts are all easily accessible.

Courses

Courses

 

Discipline
Subject Area
Business
  • Accounting
  • Business Administration
  • Economics
  • Finance
  • Hospitality and Tourism
  • Human Resource Management
  • International Business
  • Marketing
  • Sustainable Business
Health Sciences
  • Dentistry
  • Environmental Health
  • Medicine
  • Neuroscience
  • Nursing
  • Pharmacy
  • Public Health
Humanities
  • Anthropology
  • Archaeology
  • Childhood and Youth Studies
  • Early Childhood Education
  • Environment and Society
  • Film and Media Studies
  • Geography
  • International Studies
  • Law
  • Performing Arts
  • Psychology
  • Social Work
  • Sociology
  • Writing
Science
  • Biochemistry
  • Cognitive Science
  • Computer and  Information Science
  • Ecology
  • Environment and Society
  • Exercise and Sports Science
  • Food and Nutrition
  • Geology
  • Marine Science

Eligibility

  • Undergraduate entry requirements: High School Graduation Diploma with minimum B grade average and a minimum SAT score of 1190 or a minimum ACT composite score of 24.
  • Postgraduate entry requirements: eligibility varies based on program. Most require a minimum bachelor-level qualification in the same field, and some having additional requirements such as relevant work experience and/or professional registration in New Zealand. To study a PhD you usually require the completion of a master’s degree, or a first-class or upper second-class honors degree in the same area of study, or a related discipline, as your intended area of research.

Events & Excursions

Otago University Students Association (OUSA) offers a huge number of short courses, clubs and organized events. With over 160 student-led clubs and societies available to get involved in, OUSA is a great opportunity to make friends and  see more of the region! Throughout the year they also host events such as the Capping Show, Bring the Noise, Re-Orientation, Art Week, the Dunedin Craft Beer & Food Festival and much more!

You can also create change and get to know your host community through volunteer work with the Social Impact Studio. Volunteer roles are hugely diverse so there is a spot for everyone. This volunteer opportunity allows students to have new experiences and see parts of Dunedin they wouldn’t otherwise.

Dunedin also offers a range of seasonal activities on the University’s doorstep: www.dunedinnz.com/


Internship opportunities

The Humanities Internship is a course for undergraduate (HUMS301) and postgraduate (HUMS401) full-time students from any of the Humanities disciplines*. For one day per week for 13 weeks students will be based with an organization and will work on a project for them. The work will be negotiated between the student, the organization and the supporting academic program. It will provide academic, work-base and personal skill development and enhance students’ post-study employability.

Program Dates

Semester 1 Feb – June
Semester 2 July – Nov
Summer Early Jan – Mid-Feb

Fees & Inclusions

Tuition:

  • Tuition and fees vary based on academic program
  • International Students pay the same as domestic students for the PhD program

Health insurance:
NZ $697.00 (per year, individual rate)

All international students are required to have comprehensive health and travel insurance while in New Zealand. When you enroll at Otago you will automatically be covered by Studentsafe, and the insurance premium will be added to your student account.


What’s Included

  • Academic guidance and counselling
  • Application submission assistance, ongoing email enquiry support from start to finish throughout your application process
  • Review of suitable degree programs
  • Certification of transcripts
  • Course advice
  • Enrollment advice
  • Support through the acceptance and commencement period
  • Review of transcripts and documents
  • Liaise between you and the university

What’s Not Included*

  • International airfare ($1,800)
  • Domestic airfare in US ($500)
  • Student visa ($620)
  • Books ($365)
  • Meals during the semester ($2,500)
  • Airport transfer at the end of the semester ($50)
  • Travel insurance ($350)
  • Travel and personal expenses ($1,500 – 2,500+)

*Costs are estimated based on previous student experience and budget. Actual amounts will vary depending on student.