OverviewThe University of Otago is New Zealand’s first university, established in Dunedin in 1869. It is one of New Zealand’s most prestigious universities, and has an international reputation for teaching and research excellence.
Education is Dunedin’s main “industry”, and Dunedin is New Zealand’s only true university city- one in six of Dunedin’s population is a university student. Offering students an unrivaled campus experience and vibrant cultural life, the campus is just a few blocks from the city center, and almost all students live within walking distance of the campus and key facilities.LocationThe University of Otago is located in the southernmost of New Zealand’s main centers, in the province of Otago. Although relatively small in size, Dunedin boasts many natural attractions as well as facilities usually offered only by cities many times its size.
Located on the edge of the Dunedin Botanic Garden, the Otago campus is very beautiful. The Water of Leith winds its way past the majestic stone Clocktower, a visible reminder of the University’s history and tradition of learning, the state-of-the-art Centre for Innovation and the many character villas which house much of Otago’s student population.
Dunedin is a gateway to Central Otago and Fiordland, where, just a few hours’ drive from the city opportunities abound for hiking, skiing, water sports, adventure tourism (including bungy jumping), or, just admiring the spectacular landscape. Extracurricular ActivitiesThere are many recreational opportunities within minutes of Dunedin’s city center. The unique natural environment of the Otago Peninsula is home to colonies of yellow-eyed penguins, seals, sea lions, and the world’s only mainland breeding colony of the Royal Albatross. A little further afield, students can explore some of New Zealand’s most spectacular natural attractions in the subtropical rainforests of the Catlins or the rich flora and fauna of the fiords in Doubtful and Milford Sounds.
An exceptionally diverse range of sporting and recreational activities are also readily accessible from Dunedin. The long, natural harbor provides ideal surroundings for wind surfing, diving, yachting, surfing, canoeing, rowing, and fishing. There are more than 150 walking tracks in and around Dunedin, four championship golf courses, and St Clair beach is considered one of New Zealand’s best for surfing.
In contrast to Dunedin’s coastal environment, the inland region of Central Otago boasts stunning lakes, rivers, and mountains and enjoys weather that allows snow sports in the winter and water sports in the summer. The Otago region is home to some of the best ski and boarding resorts in New Zealand and these snow sports, along with kayaking, hiking, fishing, and mountain biking, are just some of the activities readily accessible from Dunedin.
The fashion industry is particularly vibrant, with several of New Zealand’s leading designers based in the city. The Dunedin Art Gallery, the Otago Museum, and other museums and libraries are among the finest in the country, and professional theatre enjoys a high profile.
An excellent program of activities is available through Clubs and Societies and Recreation Services at the University of Otago. Opportunities range from wine tours, cycle tours, horseback riding, belly dancing classes, mosaic art courses to surfing and sailing classes. A large pool of equipment is also available for hire, while the advice about the recreation and leisure options around Dunedin and the Otago region is freely given.Academic Highlights
- Earth and Ocean Sciences (Geology, Marine Science)
- Environmental Sciences (Ecology)
- Biological Sciences (Botany, Zoology)
- Computer and Information Sciences
- Medical Sciences (Anatomy, Biochemistry, Microbiology)
- Social Sciences (Anthropology, Geography)
- New Zealand and Pacific Studies
- History, Literature, Art History, Political Studies
- Communication Studies
- Maori Studies
- Religion & Theology
- Psychology
- Business (Economics, International Business, Management, Marketing)
- Tourism
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Classes are offered in a wide range of subjects. To see if the classes you need are available at this university, review the course catalog.
View courses/subjects available at this university.
Be sure to use the "help pages" for assistance on finding the courses that you need. University ServicesThe International Office is a focal point for students and coordinates all services for study abroad students from application through to accommodation placement, arrival services and orientation, and ongoing advice and support.
The Student Learning Center provides academic support to all students. Study abroad students are able to access computer resource rooms around campus for word processing, access to computer assisted learning programs, and various other resources such as email and web browsing.
Otago has a modern Information Services building incorporating a spacious central library and modern computing facilities. This complex provides the most advanced library and IT facilities in Australasia.HousingPart of Otago’s special character can be found in its accommodation quarter. Study abroad students live in self-catering, shared apartments/houses (or ‘flats’) located immediately around the central campus area. Normally 4-6 students share a house or apartment, and it is possible for our International Accommodation Advisors to place students in apartments with New Zealand resident students.
Flatting is an important part of Otago’s unique student lifestyle. It offers students both independence and responsibility. Living so close to campus, students feel a real sense of community and belonging in a very pleasant and supportive environment.OrientationStudy abroad students are encouraged to take part in a two-day orientation program held immediately before the beginning of each semester. The program provides an ideal opportunity to be introduced to life in Dunedin and New Zealand, and provides practical information about services and facilities at the University for study abroad students. It is also a chance to meet fellow students, student mentors, and University staff and see some of the local sights.Special Programs/ExcursionsSituated in close proximity to many unique wildlife, ecological, marine, and geological research fields, the departments across Otago’s Division of Sciences make the most of the huge native laboratory on their doorstep. New Zealand specific content and exploratory field trips are common components to many science courses in, for example, Botany, Ecology, Geography, Geology, and Marine Science.
Located near ‘Lord of the Rings’ country and in a city rich in natural history film making experience, animation companies and entrepreneurial spirit, the University of Otago frequently calls upon local experts to assist in the delivery of related courses. Otago also offers many courses providing the opportunity learn about and engage in the culture and language of the indigenous peoples of New Zealand and Polynesia. Students are able to focus specifically on the Maori culture – language, performing arts, carving, weaving, and/or the culture of the Pacific Islands.
Otago’s School of Business offers more than 250 courses which cover a diverse range of topics from those with a global perspective to those with a distinctly New Zealand flavor. The ‘New Zealand wine business and tourism’ course is one to consider as are those focusing on ecotourism operations, environmental economics, and events and convention management.Community InvolvementWhile abroad, we recommend getting involved in your local community. It's an awesome way to meet locals, experience the true New Zealand culture, and create long lasting memories. From volunteering to festival-going, we challenge you to make the most of your international experience... See a sample of community involvement opportunities available in Dunedin or discover your own upon arrival!
You'll get a taste of how enriching community involvement can be during your first few days in New Zealand on AustraLearn's Culture and Adventure Program. The program includes one day of pre-arranged volunteering with the local community. You'll interact directly with locals while giving back to and sharing your own culture with the community that first welcomes you to New Zealand. Plus, you can continue your volunteer efforts later in the semester by signing up for AustraLearn's Conservation Volunteer Weekend.
   Meet Your AustraLearn CoordinatorEilis McNamara-Olde is the AustraLearn Coordinator for University of Otago
View SubjectsClasses are offered in a wide range of subjects. To see if the classes you need are available at this university, review the course catalog.
View courses/subjects available at this university.
Be sure to use the "help pages" for assistance on finding the courses that you need. Fees| Program Fees | $10070.00 | | Housing | | With Meals | Not available at this university | | Without Meals | Starting at $2,630 | | Housing Deposit | | With Meals | Not applicable | | Without Meals | Refundable housing deposits range from approximately $200 - $1,200 and are billed in addition to the housing fees. |
Fee IncludesProgram fees are in U.S. dollars. Program Fees include tuition for 3 to 4 subjects, university administrative fees, membership in the student union (where applicable), overseas health coverage, ISIC Premium (International Student Identity Card), 25% Lonely Planet Book discount, also included is our renowned 6-day Bridging Cultures Program in Auckland and Rotorua, New Zealand. Fees include all pre-trip services such as: orientation materials, visa-processing service (excluding the visa fee), housing placements, personal advising, subject selections, liaise with your home university, credit transfer assistance, and financial aid services. As a study abroad student, you will be required to enroll as a full time student. Your semester is equivalent to 12-16 U.S. credits. Additional tuition and/or fees may apply in some subject areas not limited to the following: science, engineering, fine arts, and journalism. Students who undertake subjects where the university requires additional fees will be billed by the host university. Several universities have included the Sports and Rec. membership. Activities are usually extra. The Housing Fees are approximates and are in addition to the Program Fees. Housing fees listed include the least expensive option available for single accommodation in flats, houses and/or dormitories. AustraLearn offers a wide variety of accommodation options and costs allowing for individual budget considerations. Students who choose to arrange their own accommodation upon arrival will be charged the Program Fee only, as they will be responsible for making payment directly to the housing provider once accommodation has been arranged. Fee SemesterThe Program Fees listed are for the February 2010 semester. Fees are subject to change for future terms.
The Housing Fees listed are approximate figures based on the least expensive option available for accommmodation in flats, houses and/or dormitories. AustraLearn offers a wide variety of accommodation options and costs allowing for individual budget considerations. FactsLocation: Dunedin, South Island
Overseas Students: 2300
Staff: 3000
Total Enrolment: 20000
Dates| All dates are provided by each university and are subject to change. AustraLearn will attempt to provide you with the most up-to-date information as we receive it. Be sure to confirm dates before finalizing any travel plans. | |
| July 2010 Semester - Fall | Application Deadline: April 15, 2010
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| Anticipated Departure | June 29, 2010 | | Start Date | July 1, 2010 | | End Date | November 13, 2010 | | Mid Semester Break #1 | August 30, 2010 - September 3, 2010 | | Mid Semester Break #2 | - |
| July 2010 Year - Fall | Application Deadline: April 15, 2010
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| Anticipated Departure | June 29, 2010 | | Start Date | July 1, 2010 | | End Date | June 13, 2011 | | Mid Semester Break #1 | August 30, 2010 - September 3, 2010 | | Mid Semester Break #2 | April 15, 2011 - April 22, 2011 |
| February 2011 Year - Spring | Application Deadline: November 1, 2010
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| Anticipated Departure | February 6, 2011 | | Start Date | February 8, 2011 | | End Date | November 18, 2011 | | Mid Semester Break #1 | April 1, 2011 - April 11, 2011 | | Mid Semester Break #2 | September 2, 2011 - September 9, 2011 |
| February 2011 Semester - Spring | Application Deadline: November 1, 2010
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| Anticipated Departure | February 6, 2011 | | Start Date | February 10, 2011 | | End Date | June 17, 2011 | | Mid Semester Break #1 | April 1, 2011 - April 15, 2011 | | Mid Semester Break #2 | - |
| July 2011 Year - Fall | Application Deadline: April 1, 2011
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| Anticipated Departure | June 1, 2011 | | Start Date | July 3, 2011 | | End Date | November 11, 2011 | | Mid Semester Break #1 | August 26, 2011 - September 9, 2011 | | Mid Semester Break #2 | April 6, 2012 - April 13, 2012 |
| July 2011 Semester - Fall | Application Deadline: April 1, 2011
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| Anticipated Departure | July 1, 2011 | | Start Date | July 3, 2011 | | End Date | November 1, 2011 | | Mid Semester Break #1 | August 26, 2011 - September 9, 2011 | | Mid Semester Break #2 | - |
| February 2012 Semester - Spring | Application Deadline: November 15, 2011
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| Anticipated Departure | February 4, 2012 | | Start Date | February 6, 2012 | | End Date | June 23, 2012 | | Mid Semester Break #1 | April 6, 2012 - April 13, 2012 | | Mid Semester Break #2 | - |
| February 2012 Year - Spring | Application Deadline: November 15, 2011
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| Anticipated Departure | February 4, 2012 | | Start Date | February 6, 2012 | | End Date | November 17, 2012 | | Mid Semester Break #1 | April 6, 2012 - April 13, 2012 | | Mid Semester Break #2 | August 31, 2012 - September 7, 2012 |
| July 2012 Year - Fall | Application Deadline: April 1, 2012
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| Anticipated Departure | July 1, 2012 | | Start Date | July 3, 2012 | | End Date | November 9, 2012 | | Mid Semester Break #1 | August 24, 2012 - September 7, 2012 | | Mid Semester Break #2 | April 5, 2013 - April 12, 2013 |
| July 2012 Semester - Fall | Application Deadline: April 1, 2012
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| Anticipated Departure | July 1, 2012 | | Start Date | July 3, 2012 | | End Date | November 9, 2012 | | Mid Semester Break #1 | August 24, 2012 - September 7, 2012 | | Mid Semester Break #2 | - |
Entry RequirementsApplicants must have the required GPA and have completed at least the equivalent of one year of full-time study at the university/college level.
Students with a lower GPA than the requirement may be considered on a case by case basis. Please contact our office for more information.
Required GPA: 3.00
AustraLearn Coordinator| Name: | Eilis McNamara-Olde | | Title: | Sr. Coordinator, Outreach and Student Services | | Department: | Semester or Year Abroad in Australia, New Zealand, and Fiji |
BIO:
Eilis manages study abroad admission and participant pre-departure services for AUT University, Lincoln University, Massey University, University of Auckland, University of Canterbury, University of Otago, University of Waikato, and Victoria University of Wellington.
She holds a B.S. degree in Public Relations and International Studies from the University of Evansville . Studying abroad at Harlaxton College in England awakened her passion for traveling and she has since traveled extensively in Europe and the South Pacific.
Advice From The Coordinator:
Take a Geology course! Otago has a great Geology Department, and the Otago Region is an ideal place to study Geology! |
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