Founded in 1869, Otago is New Zealand’s first University. In the 150 years since, Otago has prided itself on being a research-led University with an international reputation for excellence. Otago is proud to have 11 subject areas in the top 100 globally, as per the QS World University Rankings by subject.
It first received a Five Stars Plus QS Stars University rating in 2016 (and again in 2018 and 2021).
Most undergraduate and postgraduate study takes place on the Dunedin campus, but the University also has Schools of Medicine and Health Sciences in Wellington and Christchurch, which are home to many leading medical researchers.
Otago offers more than 200 undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across four divisions:
Founded in 1869, Otago is New Zealand’s first University. In the 150 years since, Otago has prided itself on being a research-led University with an international reputation for excellence. Otago is proud to have 11 subject areas in the top 100 globally, as per the QS World University Rankings by subject.
It first received a Five Stars Plus QS Stars University rating in 2016 (and again in 2018 and 2021).
Most undergraduate and postgraduate study takes place on the Dunedin campus, but the University also has Schools of Medicine and Health Sciences in Wellington and Christchurch, which are home to many leading medical researchers.
Otago offers more than 200 undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across four divisions:
You are encouraged to apply as early as possible in order to be sure of a place in your chosen course, ensure sufficient time for applying for a visa, and make your accommodation arrangements.
Application key dates:
Main
Application period: 1 May –
30 October 2022
For some
specific programmes:
• 31 May 2022: Applications close for postgraduate
Dentistry
• 31 July 2022: Applications close for Master of Teaching and
Learning
• 31 August 2022 : Applications close for Bachelor of
Teaching.
• 15 September 2022: Applications close for Bachelor of
Oral Health and Bachelor of Dental Technology.
International
student applications Semester 2 (July 2023) deadline: 30 April
2023
General
TOEFL
95+
IELTS
6+
GPA
3+
GMAT
550+
Bachelor
TOEFL
80+
IELTS
6+
ATAR
74+
SAT
1190+
Master
GPA
2+
GMAT
550+
ACT
24+
SAT
1190+
ATAR
74+
International Baccalaureate
24+
PTE Academic
50+
Cambridge CAE Advanced
176+
TOEFL
80+
IELTS
6+
The University of Otago stretches from Auckland in the north of the country to Invercargill in the south. While most study takes place at our stunning Dunedin campus, the Health Science-focused campuses in Christchurch and Wellington are home to many of our postgraduate students.
Otago is an intriguing mix of old and new – from our iconic Clocktower Building to world-class teaching and research labs, performance spaces, lecture theatres, sporting facilities, and study areas, including our award-winning Central Library.
Otago students are supported by dozens of dedicated on-campus support services, ensuring that students get the very best out of their time here. 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.
Otago prides itself on offering a warm welcome to all. 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.
95% of our 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 here.
Otago’s Social Impact Studio achieves student-driven change through volunteering and leadership. We believe in channelling student creativity, vision, and insight for maximum social impact through our incredible volunteer programmes. Around 4,000 Otago students are registered volunteers, working with over 200 community organisations.
One of the first things everyone considers when getting a master's degree is the cost of the program. While cost is something that should be considered, you should always be aware of the options available to you when fundingyour degree. Download your copy of the Scholarship Guide to know about global scholarships and how to apply for them.
QS Stars is a rating system that helps you select the right university based on your
interests. It provides a detailed look at an institution, identifying which universities rate highest in
the
specific topics that matter to you, like facilities, graduate employability, social responsibility,
inclusiveness, and more.
Established in 1869, the University of Otago is New Zealand’s first university and the first choice for more than 20,000 students.
Gathered from all over New Zealand and around the world, students at Otago soon become part of a tradition of innovation and enjoy the benefits of a worldwide reputation for academic excellence. Otago’s position at the forefront of modern scholarship is based on its long and respected history as well as the latest in groundbreaking research and vibrant education.
That’s why Otago is able to attract first-rate academics, and why Otago graduates find their degrees open doors around the world. Lots of employers say that they choose Otago graduates because they show real independence and an ability to hit the ground running. Otago’s degrees are challenging and relevant to the modern world, so you can be confident that you can lay the foundations of a successful career.
But student life is not all work. Otago is also famous for its campus lifestyle, where you can work, play and live in a safe and welcoming environment (all within about a three-kilometre radius from its Dunedin campus). You’ll never regret choosing the quality all round experience that only Otago can offer.
The University of Otago provides excellent opportunities for students considering postgraduate study in Sciences, Health Sciences, Humanities or Business.
Founded in 1869, the University of Otago is New Zealand's oldest university, but it is also a place that prepares students for the demands of the 21st century. Otago is highly committed to using our research strengths to improve the health, prosperity and well-being of people in New Zealand and around the world.
Otago is New Zealand's leading postgraduate university, with unrivalled access to world-class research teams and academic leaders. For every 100 postgraduate students, we have 20 or more research-active staff who are leaders in their disciplines.
As well as our main campus in Dunedin, Australasia's only true university city, we have postgraduate study options in our Wellington and Christchurch Medical and Health Science campuses, and by Distance Learning.
University of Otago
# =217QS World University Rankings
119Undergraduate programs
184Postgraduate programs
5+QS stars
University of Otago
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About University of Otago
Founded in 1869, Otago is New Zealand’s first University. In the 150 years since, Otago has prided itself on being a research-led University with an international reputation for excellence. Otago is proud to have 11 subject areas in the top 100 globally, as per the QS World University Rankings by subject.
It first received a Five Stars Plus QS Stars University rating in 2016 (and again in 2018 and 2021).
Most undergraduate and postgraduate study takes place on the Dunedin campus, but the University also has Schools of Medicine and Health Sciences in Wellington and Christchurch, which are home to many leading medical researchers.
Otago offers more than 200 undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across four divisions:
It also offers a Summer School, Study Abroad and Distance Learning programmes.
About University of Otago
Founded in 1869, Otago is New Zealand’s first University. In the 150 years since, Otago has prided itself on being a research-led University with an international reputation for excellence. Otago is proud to have 11 subject areas in the top 100 globally, as per the QS World University Rankings by subject.
It first received a Five Stars Plus QS Stars University rating in 2016 (and again in 2018 and 2021).
Most undergraduate and postgraduate study takes place on the Dunedin campus, but the University also has Schools of Medicine and Health Sciences in Wellington and Christchurch, which are home to many leading medical researchers.
Otago offers more than 200 undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across four divisions:
It also offers a Summer School, Study Abroad and Distance Learning programmes.
University information
You are encouraged to apply as early as possible in order to be sure of a place in your chosen course, ensure sufficient time for applying for a visa, and make your accommodation arrangements.
Application key dates:
Main Application period: 1 May – 30 October 2022
For some specific programmes:
• 31 May 2022: Applications close for postgraduate Dentistry
• 31 July 2022: Applications close for Master of Teaching and Learning
• 31 August 2022 : Applications close for Bachelor of Teaching.
• 15 September 2022: Applications close for Bachelor of Oral Health and Bachelor of Dental Technology.
International student applications Semester 2 (July 2023) deadline: 30 April 2023
General
TOEFL
95+
IELTS
6+
GPA
3+
GMAT
550+
Bachelor
TOEFL
80+
IELTS
6+
ATAR
74+
SAT
1190+
Master
GPA
2+
GMAT
550+
ACT
24+
SAT
1190+
ATAR
74+
International Baccalaureate
24+
PTE Academic
50+
Cambridge CAE Advanced
176+
TOEFL
80+
IELTS
6+
The University of Otago stretches from Auckland in the north of the country to Invercargill in the south. While most study takes place at our stunning Dunedin campus, the Health Science-focused campuses in Christchurch and Wellington are home to many of our postgraduate students.
Otago is an intriguing mix of old and new – from our iconic Clocktower Building to world-class teaching and research labs, performance spaces, lecture theatres, sporting facilities, and study areas, including our award-winning Central Library.
Total students
19,602
UG students
81%
PG students
19%
International students
3,222
UG students
61%
PG students
39%
Total faculty staff
1,244
Domestic staff
40%
Int'l staff
60%
Student life
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 here. 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.
Otago prides itself on offering a warm welcome to all. 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.
95% of our 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 here.
Otago’s Social Impact Studio achieves student-driven change through volunteering and leadership. We believe in channelling student creativity, vision, and insight for maximum social impact through our incredible volunteer programmes. Around 4,000 Otago students are registered volunteers, working with over 200 community organisations.
Tuition fee and scholarships
Domestic Students
Tuition Fee/year
6,200 NZD
Tuition Fee (Out of State)
-
International Students
Tuition Fee/year
32,620 NZD
Other Expenses
-
One of the first things everyone considers when getting a master's degree is the cost of the program. While cost is something that should be considered, you should always be aware of the options available to you when fundingyour degree. Download your copy of the Scholarship Guide to know about global scholarships and how to apply for them.
In this guide you will find:
Where to find scholarship opportunities
How to apply scholarships
List of available scholarships around the world
A scholarship checklist
Rankings & ratings
University of Otago is one of the top public universities in Dunedin, New Zealand. It is ranked #=217 in QS World University Rankings 2023.
QS World University Rankings
QS WUR Ranking By Subject
Graduate Employability Ranking
QS World University Rankings
Ranking criteria
Available programs
Established in 1869, the University of Otago is New Zealand’s first university and the first choice for more than 20,000 students.
Gathered from all over New Zealand and around the world, students at Otago soon become part of a tradition of innovation and enjoy the benefits of a worldwide reputation for academic excellence. Otago’s position at the forefront of modern scholarship is based on its long and respected history as well as the latest in groundbreaking research and vibrant education.
That’s why Otago is able to attract first-rate academics, and why Otago graduates find their degrees open doors around the world. Lots of employers say that they choose Otago graduates because they show real independence and an ability to hit the ground running. Otago’s degrees are challenging and relevant to the modern world, so you can be confident that you can lay the foundations of a successful career.
But student life is not all work. Otago is also famous for its campus lifestyle, where you can work, play and live in a safe and welcoming environment (all within about a three-kilometre radius from its Dunedin campus). You’ll never regret choosing the quality all round experience that only Otago can offer.
Apply online to study at the University of Otago.
The University of Otago provides excellent opportunities for students considering postgraduate study in Sciences, Health Sciences, Humanities or Business.
Founded in 1869, the University of Otago is New Zealand's oldest university, but it is also a place that prepares students for the demands of the 21st century. Otago is highly committed to using our research strengths to improve the health, prosperity and well-being of people in New Zealand and around the world.
Otago is New Zealand's leading postgraduate university, with unrivalled access to world-class research teams and academic leaders. For every 100 postgraduate students, we have 20 or more research-active staff who are leaders in their disciplines.
As well as our main campus in Dunedin, Australasia's only true university city, we have postgraduate study options in our Wellington and Christchurch Medical and Health Science campuses, and by Distance Learning.
University of Otago
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