The University of Otago was founded in 1869 and was the first University in New Zealand. The University of Otago is New Zealand's top-ranked university for research and has more than 21,000 students. Of its 21,000 students, 2,400 are international students.
The University of Otago has a long-established tradition of innovation and its graduates are highly favoured by employers for their independence and confidence.
The University of Otago
City of Dunedin
The main campus of the University of Otago is located in Dunedin, New Zealand. Dunedin is the largest city in the province of Otago and is New Zealand's only true university city. It is comparatively cheap to live in Dunedin, particularly when compared to New Zealand's northern cities.
The Dunedin campus is situated only a few blocks from the city centre and on the edge of the Dunedin Botanic Garden. It is a charming campus and houses the prominent gothic Clocktower building designed by Maxwell Bury.
Dunedin's streets are lined with restaurants, bars and cafes. There are boutiques, markets, craft stores as well as contemporary shopping malls. Several of New Zealand's foremost designers are based in Dunedin. You can also find museums, libraries and the Dunedin Public Art Gallery in Dunedin. Students can also stop by New Zealands's only castle, Larnach Castle, in Dunedin.
Many sporting facilities are readily available, including more than 150 walking tracks, four championship golf courses and the St Clair beach, which is a preferred choice for surfing. The Otago Peninsula is also home to colonies of yellow-eyed penguins, the New Zealand fur seals and the Royal albatross.
Why Choose the University of Otago?
Excellent Reputation
The University of Otago is known all over New Zealand, being the oldest University in New Zealand and New Zealand's top-ranked university for research. It was also rated first by PBRF in more subjects areas than any other institution. Moreover, more than 50% of University of Otago's academic staff are nationally or internationally distinguished.
Strong Support for International Students
The University of Otago's International Office provides a variety of services catered to international students. The International Office gives information, help and advice to University of Otago international students to help them get used to life in Otago. There are also many clubs and associations for University of Otago international students, including the Malaysian Students' Association, the Fiji Club, the Indian Cultural Society and the Otago Muslim Students' Association.
New Zealand's Only True University City
University of Otago students rate Dunedin’s campus lifestyle as one of its greatest appeals. Dunedin is New Zealand’s only true university city, with university students and staff making up one-sixth of its population.
Research-Based
The University of Otago is New Zealand's most research-intensive university and is also New Zealand's top-ranked university for research quality. The University of Otago also built the Centre for Innovation, the first purpose-built biotechnology incubation facility in New Zealand. The Centre for Innovation is a notable laboratory and research facility committed to bringing researchers, inventors and innovative companies together.
