Study Abroad at the University of Otago in New Zealand
- New Zealand
- Dunedin
About Program
The University of Otago is New Zealand’s first university (established 1869) and is the first choice for more than 21,000 students who live, work, and study in Dunedin – New Zealand’s only true student city.
Otago is renowned for its research, academic excellence, and unmatched student experience.
Otago’s main campus in Dunedin is recognised as one of the most beautiful campuses in the world, situated in the city precinct with cafes, galleries, museums, and shops within walking distance. On the doorstep are forested hills, beaches, a natural harbour, and incredible wildlife, with lakes, mountains, and world-class ski resorts only a few hours’ drive away.
Studying at Otago will not only equip you with first rate academic skills, it will enable you to explore stunning New Zealand, make friendships, and experience life in one of the most unique corners of the world.
Please visit our website for more details: www.otago.ac.nz/international
Video and Photos
Program Highlights
- Ranked in the top 1% of universities worldwide (QS World Rankings)
- More than 200 undergraduate and postgraduate programmes
- Highest-possible university rating of 5 Stars Plus (QS Stars Rating)
- 5th most beautiful campus in the world (Times Higher Education - The Student Voice 2022)
- Easy location to explore the spectacular South Island of New Zealand in the weekends
Response from University of Otago
Kia ora Austin,
We are sorry to hear that your experience studying abroad at our university was not positive. While Dunedin is quite safe, you point out valid issues of students drinking to excess within the public neighbourhoods near to campus. The NZ education system provides education on the dangers of alcohol, but as with other commonwealth nations there is unfortunately a culture of binge drinking that we are actively dealing with. This is an issue that the university takes very seriously and pro-actively tackles together with the Dunedin City Council. The institution of Campus Watch has been an excellent introduction in recent years for ensuring students are safe in the local neighbourhoods (which are not university property), and more recently students have been required to adhere to a code of conduct in their life on and off-campus to retain their place at Otago.
While the campus is not looking its best in 2014/15 due to a huge beautification project, meaning we have lots of areas on campus fenced off and dug up, the campus will be back to its beautiful best in mid-2016.
We are sorry to hear you found your classes uninspiring, and will be sure to pass this feedback on to those academic departments for improvement. With regards to the Music programme at Otago, we in fact have a wide range of classes available and it is concerning you were not advised of these prior to coming here. We have updated our study abroad guide this year to make the process for searching courses easier: http://www.otago.ac.nz/music