University of Otago
University of Otago overview
Founded by the Otago Provincial Council in 1869, the University of Otago is one of New Zealand's oldest universities. Originally established to provide education in arts, medicine, law, and music, the University of Otago opened its doors to students in 1871.
Over time, the university broadened its scope by introducing new disciplines and programs, playing a significant role in medical education during World War I and becoming the site of New Zealand's first radio broadcast in 1921.
The university extended its reach beyond Dunedin by establishing Health Sciences campuses in Christchurch and Wellington, and a knowledge and teaching center in Auckland. Its governance has also evolved through reforms ensuring representation from a diverse range of stakeholders.
Academically, Otago has consistently excelled in research and teaching, producing many significant figures throughout its history. For example, it was the first university in Australasia to admit women to law studies, and Ethel Benjamin graduated with a law degree in 1897 as the first woman to do so.
The university continues to be a leading institution in New Zealand, recognized for its strong academic reputation and vibrant student life.
About University of Otago
Founded by the Otago Provincial Council in 1869, the University of Otago is one of New Zealand's oldest universities. Originally established to provide education in arts, medicine, law, and music, the University of Otago opened its doors to students in 1871.
Over time, the university broadened its scope by introducing new disciplines and programs, playing a significant role in medical education during World War I and becoming the site of New Zealand's first radio broadcast in 1921.
The university extended its reach beyond Dunedin by establishing Health Sciences campuses in Christchurch and Wellington, and a knowledge and teaching center in Auckland. Its governance has also evolved through reforms ensuring representation from a diverse range of stakeholders.
Academically, Otago has consistently excelled in research and teaching, producing many significant figures throughout its history. For example, it was the first university in Australasia to admit women to law studies, and Ethel Benjamin graduated with a law degree in 1897 as the first woman to do so.
The university continues to be a leading institution in New Zealand, recognized for its strong academic reputation and vibrant student life.
University of Otago faculties and programs
Take a closer look at University of Otago
The university comprises 4 academic divisions: the Division of Humanities, the Division of Health Sciences, the Division of Sciences, and the Division of Commerce (Otago Business School). In addition, the Otago School of Medicine, founded in 1875, is one of only two medical schools in New Zealand.
The main campus, home to all 4 academic divisions and the administration building, is located in the city of Dunedin. Satellite campuses are located in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and Invercargill.
The Christchurch and Wellington campuses house the faculties of Medicine and Health Sciences, offering clinical training programs in medicine and physiotherapy as well as graduate programs. Online programs suitable for distance learning are also available.
The Invercargill campus is home to the University of Otago College of Education. The university's Department of Marine Science is located on the Otago Peninsula and operates in conjunction with the university-owned Portobello Marine Science Laboratory.
The university's main campus has 14 residential colleges. While residence halls are typically available for first-year students, the majority of upper-class and even graduate students also tend to live in the residential colleges.
In addition to accommodation, meals are provided in the residential colleges. Social and health services are also offered to students.
The Otago University Students' Association, known as OUSA, has been working for over 100 years to maximize the university experience for students. There are more than 160 student clubs available for students to join.
The OUSA building also provides housing support for students, offers spaces where students can study or gather, and serves breakfast and lunch.
Various gyms and sports fields, a sauna, and numerous libraries are also available for student use. A variety of events are organized each year so that students can enjoy themselves while learning.
The highlights include O-Week, an orientation week organized for first-year students at the start of the year; Toga Parade, a costume party with a Greek theme; and the clock tower race. A wide range of arts, film, and music events are also held each year.
The University of Otago has an extensive alumni network made up of individuals who have achieved outstanding success across a wide range of fields. Notable alumni of the university include:
- Arthur Henry Adams
- Barbara Anderson
- Rui Maria de Araújo
- Annette Baier
- Muriel Bell
- David Benson-Pope
- W. D. Borrie
- Christine Jensen Burke
- Dame Silvia Cartwright
- Brian Christie
- Nathan Cohen
- John Coverdale
- John Crump
- Thomas Davis
- Bill English
- Solomon Faine
- Jon Gadsby
- John Gallas
University of Otago cost of living
University of Otago awards and achievements
- 12 Rhodes Bursiyeri Mezun
University of Otago Frequently Asked Questions
University of Otago Location
Dunedin, Otago, New Zealand
University of Otago Contact
University of Otago
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