University of Otago

Rank 2
Location Dunedin
Established 1869
Famous For Agricultural Sciences and Arts & Humanities

Overview

The University of Otago is a public research university located in Dunedin, New Zealand. It was founded in 1869 and is New Zealand's oldest educational institution. The university has a reputation for academic excellence, particularly in the areas of health sciences, humanities, and sciences.

The university has a wide range of academic programmes, including undergraduate, postgraduate, and research degrees. It has four academic divisions: the Division of Health Sciences, the Division of Sciences, the Division of Humanities, and the Division of Commerce. It has a strong research focus, with various research centres and institutes covering a wide range of fields, including neuroscience, genetics, climate change, and indigenous studies. The University of Otago is also home to the Otago Museum, which houses extensive collections of natural history, science, and humanities. It is particularly well-known for its student-run scarfie culture, which is centred around the university's Dunedin campus.

Services for International Students

The University of Otago administration offers a range of services to support students throughout their academic journeys. Academic support is provided in the form of study skills workshops, academic writing support, and academic mentoring. There are various health and wellbeing services, including a student health centre, counselling services, and support for students with disabilities. A team also works to assist International students with visa applications and orientation programmes and to provide support with adapting to life in New Zealand.

Ranking

  • 241st in the QS World University Rankings 2025
  • 301-350th in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024
  • 247th in the Best Global Universities category by US News Rankings

Accommodation

There are several on-campus and off-campus accommodation options available for students at Otago. The on-campus accommodation options include traditional halls of residence, apartment-style complexes, and self-contained studio units. The halls of residence offer a fully-catered option, with meals provided in a communal dining hall, as well as a self-catered option, where students can cook for themselves in shared kitchen facilities.

Apartment-style complexes and self-contained studio units offer more independent living options with their own kitchen and bathroom facilities. The university also offers off-campus accommodation options through its Student Accommodation Centre, which assists with finding private rentals and flatmates.

About Location

The renowned university is located in the city of Dunedin, which is situated on the southeast coast of New Zealand's South Island. The university's campus is situated in the heart of Dunedin, with easy access to the city's amenities and attractions. Dunedin is a student-friendly place with a vibrant and diverse culture that caters to the needs and interests of students.

There are many cafes, restaurants, bars, and clubs that provide entertainment and socialising opportunities. The city is also home to beautiful natural surroundings, including beaches, parks, and gardens, which offer students a chance to relax and unwind after a busy day of classes.

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