University of Otago

362 Leith Street Dunedin 9016 New Zealand

University Type

Public

Auckland,

New Zealand

Year Established:

1869

The University of Otago is a public research collegiate university based in Dunedin, Otago, New Zealand. Founded in 1869, Otago is New Zealand's oldest University and one of the oldest universities in Oceania.

The university was created by a committee led by Thomas Burns, and officially established by an ordinance of the Otago Provincial Council in 1869. Between 1874 and 1961 the University of Otago was a part of the federal University of New Zealand, and issued degrees in its name.

Otago is known for its vibrant student life, particularly its flatting, which is often in old houses. Otago students have a long-standing tradition of naming their flats. The nickname for Otago students "Scarfie" comes from the habit of wearing a scarf during the cold southern winters. The university's graduation song, Gaudeamus igitur, iuvenes dum sumus ("Let us rejoice, while we are young"), acknowledges students will continue to live up to the challenge, if not always in the way intended. The university's student magazine, Critic, is New Zealand's longest running student magazine.

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Rankings

#184

QS

University of Otago Program Rankings

  • Dentistry - Rank #33 (QS)
  • Performing Arts - Rank #51-100 (QS)
  • Sports-related Subjects - Rank #51-100 (QS)
  • Psychology - Rank #151-200 (QS)
  • Education - Rank #101-150 (QS)
  • English Language and Literature - Rank #151-200 (QS)
  • Geography - Rank #101-150 (QS)
  • Law - Rank #151-200 (QS)
  • Medicine - Rank #201-250 (QS)
  • Pharmacy & Pharmacology - Rank #51-100 (QS)
  • Anthropology - Rank #101-150 (QS)
  • Archaeology - Rank #101-150 (QS)
  • Biological Sciences - Rank #251-300 (QS)
  • Business & Management Studies - Rank #251-300 (QS)
  • Computer Science and Information Systems - Rank #551-600 (QS)
  • Economics & Econometrics - Rank #251-300 (QS)
  • Philosophy - Rank #101-150 (QS)
  • Physics & Astronomy - Rank #451-500 (QS)
  • Sociology - Rank #151-200 (QS)

University of Otago Highlights

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FAQs

What are the most popular graduate programs offered at University of Otago?

The University of Otago offers a wide range of popular graduate programs, including Health Sciences, Science, and Business. Notably, the Health Sciences programs, such as Medicine and Dentistry, are highly acclaimed. Other sought-after majors include Psychology, Marketing, and Ecology, which are recognized for their comprehensive curriculum and research opportunities.

What is the Annual Cost of attendance at University of Otago?

The annual cost of attendance for international students at the University of Otago varies by program, but on average, tuition fees are approximately NZD 30,000 to 40,000. The cost of living, including accommodation, food, and other expenses, is roughly NZD 15,000 to 18,000 per year. The total cost, approximately NZD 45,000 to 58,000, converts to about INR 21,60,000 to 27,84,000, rounded to the nearest hundreds.

What Financial aid and scholarship options are available at University of Otago?

The University of Otago offers numerous scholarships and financial aid options for both domestic and international students. These include merit-based scholarships, research grants, and departmental awards. Prospective students can apply for scholarships through the university's official website, where they can also find eligibility criteria and application deadlines. It's advisable to apply early as funding is competitive.

What is the reputation and ranking of University of Otago?

The University of Otago is highly regarded globally, consistently ranking in the top 200 universities worldwide. It excels particularly in areas of Health Sciences and Humanities. For instance, its Dentistry program is ranked among the top 50 worldwide. Otago's Psychology, History, and Earth Sciences programs also receive high rankings, underlining the university's strong academic reputation across diverse disciplines.

What is the campus culture like at University of Otago?

Campus culture at the University of Otago is vibrant and diverse, offering a rich blend of academic and extracurricular activities. The university hosts numerous cultural festivals such as the Otago Festival of the Arts and Capping Show, which are student favorites. There are over 150 clubs and societies ranging from sports to arts, ensuring that every student finds something of interest. The active student association also organizes regular events and social gatherings.

What are the housing options at University of Otago?

The University of Otago provides a variety of housing options including residential colleges, which offer fully-catered and self-catered accommodations. For those preferring off-campus living, popular areas include North Dunedin, which is a student-friendly zone close to campus. Flatting in areas like Clyde Street and Castle Street is common, where students can find affordable shared housing options, adding to the collegial atmosphere typical of Dunedin.

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University of Otago Fun Facts

  • The Clocktower Complex

    The iconic Clocktower at the University of Otago is not just a landmark but also featured on the New Zealand $100 note.

  • The Capping Show Tradition

    Each year, students at Otago participate in the Capping Show, a comedic, theatrical production that satirizes university life and local issues, continuing a tradition over a century old.

  • The Link

    Otago's central library, the Information Services Building, features "The Link," a popular meeting spot equipped with cafes and study areas, fostering a vibrant student community.

  • Scarfie Term Origin

    "Scarfie," a term affectionately used for Otago students, originated from the scarves worn to endure Dunedin’s cold winters, symbolizing the university's unique student culture.