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The University of Otago is New Zealand's first university, established in 1869. Over 150 years later, Otago remains a leading institution in New Zealand, with a long standing and international reputation for academic excellence. Otago is New Zealand's top university for educational performance, with a faculty composed of world-class academics and scholars at the cutting edge of their
respective fields. Otago prides itself on being a research-led University and
is the top ranked in the country for international student learning.
Otago
offers an unmatched student experience, with the main campus located in
Dunedin, New Zealand’s only true student city, with a population of over 21,000
students living, working, and studying. Otago boasts high levels of student
satisfaction, and produces globally employable graduates, with 95% of students
entering directly into further study or work.
Otago is
proud to be the top ranked University in the country for international student
learning, with 25 subject areas in the top 200 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).
The University of Otago is New Zealand's first university, established in 1869. Over 150 years later, Otago remains a leading institution in New Zealand, with a long standing and international reputation for academic excellence. Otago is New Zealand's top university for educational performance, with a faculty composed of world-class academics and scholars at the cutting edge of their
respective fields. Otago prides itself on being a research-led University and
is the top ranked in the country for international student learning.
Otago
offers an unmatched student experience, with the main campus located in
Dunedin, New Zealand’s only true student city, with a population of over 21,000
students living, working, and studying. Otago boasts high levels of student
satisfaction, and produces globally employable graduates, with 95% of students
entering directly into further study or work.
Otago is
proud to be the top ranked University in the country for international student
learning, with 25 subject areas in the top 200 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).
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.
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 for study in 2025 (for international students):
Main
Application period: 1 May –
30 October 2024
For some
specific programmes:
• 31 May 2024: Applications close for postgraduate
Dentistry
• 31 July 2024: Applications close for Master of Teaching and
Learning
• 31 August 2024: Applications close for Bachelor of
Teaching.
• 15 September 2024: Applications close for Bachelor of
Oral Health and Bachelor of Dental Technology.
International
student applications Semester 2 (July 2024) deadline: 30 April
2024
International
student applications Semester 2 (July 2025) deadline: 30 April
2025
General
6+
80+
176+
50+
24+
74+
1190+
24+
550+
2.8+
Bachelor
80+
6+
74+
1190+
Master
95+
6.5+
3+
550+
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 170 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 important factors when considering a master's degree is the cost of study. Luckily, there are many options available to help students fund their master's programme. Download your copy of the Scholarship Guide to find out which scholarships from around the world could be available to you, and how to apply for them.
The University of Otago offers a wide range of scholarships for international students for both undergraduate and postgraduate studies. Check out the full list of Otago's exclusive scholarship here.
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.
University of Otago
Dunedin Campus, Dunedin New Zealand
# 214QS World University Rankings
102Undergraduate programs
166Postgraduate programs
5+QS stars
Follow University
About University of Otago
The University of Otago is New Zealand's first university, established in 1869. Over 150 years later, Otago remains a leading institution in New Zealand, with a long standing and international reputation for academic excellence. Otago is New Zealand's top university for educational performance, with a faculty composed of world-class academics and scholars at the cutting edge of their respective fields. Otago prides itself on being a research-led University and is the top ranked in the country for international student learning.
Otago offers an unmatched student experience, with the main campus located in Dunedin, New Zealand’s only true student city, with a population of over 21,000 students living, working, and studying. Otago boasts high levels of student satisfaction, and produces globally employable graduates, with 95% of students entering directly into further study or work.
Otago is proud to be the top ranked University in the country for international student learning, with 25 subject areas in the top 200 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, Exchange and Distance Learning programmes.
About University of Otago
The University of Otago is New Zealand's first university, established in 1869. Over 150 years later, Otago remains a leading institution in New Zealand, with a long standing and international reputation for academic excellence. Otago is New Zealand's top university for educational performance, with a faculty composed of world-class academics and scholars at the cutting edge of their respective fields. Otago prides itself on being a research-led University and is the top ranked in the country for international student learning.
Otago offers an unmatched student experience, with the main campus located in Dunedin, New Zealand’s only true student city, with a population of over 21,000 students living, working, and studying. Otago boasts high levels of student satisfaction, and produces globally employable graduates, with 95% of students entering directly into further study or work.
Otago is proud to be the top ranked University in the country for international student learning, with 25 subject areas in the top 200 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, Exchange and Distance Learning programmes.
Available programs
Bachelor UG
Master PG
PHD
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.
Arts and Humanities (7)
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Asian Studies
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Biblical Studies
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Chinese
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Christian Thought and History
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Classics
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in English
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in English and Linguistics
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in European Studies
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in French
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in German
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in History
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Japanese
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Language and Linguistics
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Linguistics
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Music
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Māori Studies
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Philosophy
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Philosophy, Politics and Economics
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Religious Studies
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Spanish
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Theatre Studies
Bachelor of Arts and Commerce (BACom)
Bachelor of Arts and Science (BASc)
Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) in Philosophy, Politics and Economics
Bachelor of Music (MusB)
Bachelor of Performing Arts (BPA)
Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Land Planning and Development
Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Surveying
Bachelor of Surveying (BSurv)
Bachelor of Theology (BTheol)
Business and Management (7)
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Economics
Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) in Accounting
Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) in Economics
Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) in Finance
Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) in International Business
Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) in Management
Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) in Marketing
Bachelor of Commerce and Science (BComSc)
Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Economics
Engineering and Technology (7)
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Computer Science
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Information Science
Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) in Information Science
Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Computer Science
Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Energy Science and Technology
Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Information Science
Life Sciences and Medicine (7)
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology
Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences (BBiomedSc)
Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS)
Bachelor of Dental Technology (BDentTech)
Bachelor of Health Sciences (BHealSc)
Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science (BMLSc)
Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MB ChB)
Bachelor of Oral Health (BOH)
Bachelor of Pharmacy (BPharm)
Bachelor of Physiotherapy (BPhty)
Bachelor of Radiation Therapy (BRT)
Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Anatomy
Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Biochemistry
Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Botany
Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Genetics
Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Microbiology
Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Neuroscience
Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Pharmacology
Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Physiology
Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Plant Biotechnology
Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Psychology
Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Zoology
Natural Sciences (7)
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Geography
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Mathematics
Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Chemistry
Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Ecology
Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Food Science
Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Geography
Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Geology
Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Human Nutrition
Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Marine Science
Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Mathematics
Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Physics
Others (7)
Bachelor of Applied Science (BAppSc) in Clothing and Textile Sciences
Bachelor of Arts (BA) majoring in Art History and Visual Culture
Bachelor of Science (BSc) majoring in Clothing and Textile Sciences
Social Sciences and Management (7)
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Anthropology
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Communication Studies
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Education
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Film and Media Studies
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Gender Studies
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Global Studies
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Indigenous Development / He Kura Matanui
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Pacific Islands Studies
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Politics
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Sociology
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Sport Development and Management
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Statistics
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Tourism, Languages and Cultures
Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) in Human Resource Management
Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) in Tourism
Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Exercise and Sport Science
Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Sport Development and Management
Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Statistics
Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)
Bachelor of Teaching (BTchg)
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.
Arts and Humanities (7)
Doctor of Musical Arts
Master of Applied Science (MAppSc) in Creative Non-Fiction Writing in Science
Master of Archaeological Practice (MArchP)
Master of Arts (Coursework) (MA(Coursework)) in Buddhist Studies
Master of Arts (Coursework) (MA(Coursework)) in Chinese
Master of Arts (Coursework) (MA(Coursework)) in Classics
Master of Arts (Coursework) (MA(Coursework)) in English
Master of Arts (Coursework) (MA(Coursework)) in French
Master of Arts (Coursework) (MA(Coursework)) in German
Master of Arts (Coursework) (MA(Coursework)) in History
Master of Arts (Coursework) (MA(Coursework)) in Japanese
Master of Arts (Coursework) (MA(Coursework)) in Linguistics
Master of Arts (Coursework) (MA(Coursework)) in Music
Master of Arts (Coursework) (MA(Coursework)) in Māori Studies
Master of Arts (Coursework) (MA(Coursework)) in Philosophy
Master of Arts (Coursework) (MA(Coursework)) in Philosophy, Politics and Economics
Master of Arts (Coursework) (MA(Coursework)) in Religious Studies
Master of Arts (Coursework) (MA(Coursework)) in Spanish
Master of Arts (Coursework) (MA(Coursework)) in Theatre Studies
Master of Chaplaincy (MChap)
Master of Faith-based Leadership and Management (MFBLM)
Master of Fine Arts (MFA)
Master of Ministry (MMin)
Master of Music (MMus)
Master of Planning (MPlan)
Master of Science (MSc) in Surveying
Master of Surveying (MSurv)
Master of Theology (MTheol)
Business and Management (7)
Master of Commerce (MCom) in Accounting
Master of Commerce (MCom) in Economics
Master of Commerce (MCom) in Finance
Master of Commerce (MCom) in International Business
Master of Commerce (MCom) in Management
Master of Commerce (MCom) in Marketing
Master of Economics (MEcon)
Master of Entrepreneurship (MEntr)
Master of Finance (MFinc)
Master of International Business (MIntBus)
Master of Marketing (MMart)
Master of Science (MSc) in Economics
Master of Sustainable Business (MSusBus)
Engineering and Technology (7)
Master of Applied Science (MAppSc) in Computer Science
Master of Applied Science (MAppSc) in Geographic Information Systems
Master of Applied Science (MAppSc) in Software Engineering
Master of Business Data Science (MBusDataSc)
Master of Commerce (MCom) in Information Science
Master of Science (MSc) in Computer Science
Master of Science (MSc) in Energy Science and Technology
Master of Science (MSc) in Geographic Information Systems
Master of Science (MSc) in Information Science
Life Sciences and Medicine (7)
Doctor of Clinical Dentistry (DClinDent)
Master of Advanced Nursing Practice (MAdvNP)
Master of Applied Science (MAppSc) in Bioengineering
Master of Applied Science (MAppSc) in Molecular Biotechnology
Master of Applied Science (MAppSc) in Plant Biotechnology
Master of Applied Science (MAppSc) in Quantitative Genetics
Master of Applied Science (MAppSc) in Science Communication
Master of Aviation Medicine (MAvMed)
Master of Bioethics and Health Law (MBHL)
Master of Biomedical Sciences (MBiomedSc)
Master of Clinical Pharmacy (MClinPharm)
Master of Community Dentistry (MComDent)
Master of Dental Technology (MDentTech)
Master of Dentistry (MDent)
Master of General Practice (MGP)
Master of Health Sciences (MHealSc)
Master of Medical Laboratory Science (MMLSc)
Master of Medical Science (MMedSc)
Master of Nursing Science (MNSc)
Master of Occupational Medicine (MOccMed)
Master of Ophthalmology (MOphth)
Master of Oral Health (MOH)
Master of Pharmacy (MPharm)
Master of Physiotherapy (MPhty)
Master of Primary Health Care (MPHC)
Master of Science (MSc) in Anatomy
Master of Science (MSc) in Biochemistry
Master of Science (MSc) in Bioengineering
Master of Science (MSc) in Botany
Master of Science (MSc) in Cognitive Science
Master of Science (MSc) in Genetics
Master of Science (MSc) in Human Nutrition
Master of Science (MSc) in Immunology
Master of Science (MSc) in Microbiology
Master of Science (MSc) in Neuroscience
Master of Science (MSc) in Pharmacology
Master of Science (MSc) in Physiology
Master of Science (MSc) in Plant Biotechnology
Master of Science (MSc) in Psychology
Master of Science (MSc) in Sport, Exercise and Health
Master of Science (MSc) in Toxicology
Master of Science (MSc) in Wildlife Management
Master of Science (MSc) in Zoology
Master of Travel Medicine (MTravMed)
Master of Wildlife Management (MWLM)
Natural Sciences (7)
Master of Applied Science (MAppSc) in Advanced Nutrition Practice
Master of Applied Science (MAppSc) in Applied Geology
Master of Applied Science (MAppSc) in Consumer Food Science
Master of Applied Science (MAppSc) in Environmental Management
Master of Arts (Coursework) (MA(Coursework)) in Geography
Master of Science (MSc) in Chemistry
Master of Science (MSc) in Consumer Food Science
Master of Science (MSc) in Ecology
Master of Science (MSc) in Environmental Management
Master of Science (MSc) in Environmental Science
Master of Science (MSc) in Food Science
Master of Science (MSc) in Geography
Master of Science (MSc) in Geology
Master of Science (MSc) in Geophysics
Master of Science (MSc) in Marine Science
Master of Science (MSc) in Mathematics
Master of Science (MSc) in Physics
Others (7)
Master of Applied Science
Master of Applied Science (MAppSc) in Clothing and Textile Sciences
Master of Applied Science (MAppSc) in Microbiology
Master of Applied Science (MAppSc) in Sport and Exercise Nutrition
Master of Arts (Coursework)
Master of Arts (Coursework) (MA(Coursework)) in Art History and Visual Culture
Master of Arts (Coursework) (MA(Coursework)) in Childhood and Youth Studies
Master of Arts (Coursework) (MA(Coursework)) in Communications Studies
Master of Bioethics and Health Law (MBHL)
Master of Dietetics (MDiet)
Master of Medical Laboratory Science (MMLSc)
Master of MÄori and Indigenous Business (MMAIBus)
Master of Science (MSc) in Clothing and Textile Sciences
Social Sciences and Management (7)
Doctor of Education
Master of Applied Science (MAppSc) in Telecommunications
Master of Arts (Coursework) (MA(Coursework)) in Anthropology
Master of Arts (Coursework) (MA(Coursework)) in Communication Studies
Master of Arts (Coursework) (MA(Coursework)) in Education
Master of Arts (Coursework) (MA(Coursework)) in Film and Media Studies
Master of Arts (Coursework) (MA(Coursework)) in Gender Studies
Master of Arts (Coursework) (MA(Coursework)) in Sociology
Master of Commerce (MCom) in Tourism
Master of Education and Learning (MEdLn)
Master of Higher Education (MHEd)
Master of Indigenous Studies (MIndS)
Master of International Development and Planning (MIDP)
Master of International Studies (MIntSt)
Master of Laws (LLM)
Master of Peace and Conflict Studies (MPCS)
Master of Politics (MPols)
Master of Public Health (MPH)
Master of Science (MSc) in Statistics
Master of Science Communication (MSciComm)
Master of Social Work (MSW)
Master of Social and Community Work (Applied) (MSCW(Applied))
Master of Sport Development and Management (MSpDM)
Master of Teaching and Learning (MTchgLn)
Master of Tourism (MTour)
Arts and Humanities (6)
PhD in Arts
PhD in Languages
PhD in Music
PhD in Surveying
PhD in Theology
Business and Management (6)
PhD in Commerce
Engineering and Technology (6)
PhD in Computer Science
PhD in Information Science
Life Sciences and Medicine (6)
PhD in Dentistry
PhD in Health Sciences
PhD in Medicine
PhD in Pharmacy
PhD in Science
Natural Sciences (6)
PhD in Geography
PhD in Mathematics
Social Sciences and Management (6)
PhD in Law
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 for study in 2025 (for international students):
Main Application period: 1 May – 30 October 2024
For some specific programmes:
• 31 May 2024: Applications close for postgraduate Dentistry
• 31 July 2024: Applications close for Master of Teaching and Learning
• 31 August 2024: Applications close for Bachelor of Teaching.
• 15 September 2024: Applications close for Bachelor of Oral Health and Bachelor of Dental Technology.
International student applications Semester 2 (July 2024) deadline: 30 April 2024
International student applications Semester 2 (July 2025) deadline: 30 April 2025
General
Bachelor
Master
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.
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 170 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
International Students
One of the important factors when considering a master's degree is the cost of study. Luckily, there are many options available to help students fund their master's programme. Download your copy of the Scholarship Guide to find out which scholarships from around the world could be available to you, and how to apply for them.
In this guide you will find:
Where to look for scholarship opportunities
How to apply to scholarships relevant to you
A list of available scholarships around the world
A scholarship application checklist
The University of Otago offers a wide range of scholarships for international students for both undergraduate and postgraduate studies. Check out the full list of Otago's exclusive scholarship here.
Rankings & ratings
University of Otago is one of the top public universities in Dunedin, New Zealand. It is ranked #214 in QS World University Rankings 2025.
QS World University Rankings
QS WUR Ranking By Subject
QS Sustainability Ranking
QS World University Rankings
University of Otago
Videos & media
Videos & media
Campus locations
open the map