University of Otago

More about University of Otago

Outstanding student experience

Otago offers students an unrivalled campus experience and a vibrant, social student culture. The majority of Otago’s 21,000 students live, work and play in Dunedin - New Zealand’s only true university city.

Otago students are supported by dozens of dedicated on-campus support services, ensuring that students get the very best out of their time there.

Numerous accommodation options are available, including 15 residential colleges, which provide a supportive environment that enables students to develop their independence, build a social network and succeed in their academic endeavours.

There are over 150 student clubs and societies to get involved in; forested hills, beaches, incredible wildlife and a beautiful natural harbour on the doorstep; and lakes, mountains and world-class ski resorts within a few hours’ drive of the city.

Globally employable graduates, socially responsible citizens

95% of Otago students go into work or to further study in New Zealand and around the world. 112,000 Otago alumni are living in 145 countries, with many occupying influential positions in industry, government and within their communities.

The university has a reputation for producing well-rounded, practical, adaptable, resilient graduates, who are highly sought after by employers. Otago students don’t just focus on academic pursuits, they learn life skills, creative thinking, problem-solving and team dynamics. Outside of study, they are encouraged to get involved in a wide range of sporting, cultural and community-based activities during their time there.

Otago’s Social Impact Studio achieves student-driven change through volunteering and leadership. Otago believes in channelling student creativity, vision, and insight for maximum social impact through its incredible volunteer programmes. Around 4,000 Otago students are registered volunteers, working with over 200 community organisations.

Amazing facilities across New Zealand

The University of Otago stretches from Auckland in the north of the country to Invercargill in the south. While most study takes place at its stunning Dunedin campus, the Health Science-focused campuses in Christchurch and Wellington are home to many of its postgraduate students.

Otago is an intriguing mix of old and new – from its iconic Clocktower Building to world-class teaching and research labs, performance spaces, lecture theatres, sporting facilities, and study areas, including its award-winning Central Library.

The Otago factor

Otago offers a world-class academic experience, but one of the key things that set Otago apart is that it attracts and fosters independence. It provides academic programmes, accommodation options, support, and a teaching style that caters to the individual and enables each student to identify and develop their strengths – both inside and outside of the classroom.

Otago degrees are flexible, allowing students to combine subjects that might not normally be studied together, and most students can complement their degree with elective courses of personal and professional interest to them. Study is self-directed and interactive, with many opportunities for hands-on learning outside of the classroom.

A warm welcome – “manaakitanga”

The concept of “manaakitanga” is key in Māori and New Zealand society, loosely referring to the importance of openly and warmly welcoming visitors, of having a mutual respect for one another. Otago offers a rich cultural life, reflecting a diverse international university community and New Zealand's own multicultural population.