University of Otago
About
Founded in 1869, the University of Otago is New Zealand's first university. Otago has gained an excellent international reputation for its research and teaching.
University of Otago
Founded in 1869, the University of Otago is New Zealand's first university. Otago has gained an excellent international reputation for its research and teaching.
The University of Otago is ranked among top 1% of higher education institutions, at #197 globally (QS World University Rankings 2026) and#2 in New Zealand, Otago students can choose from more than 200 study options at undergraduate and postgraduate level covering areas such as health science, business, science, and humanities.
Why study here?
Otago is renowned for its research, academic excellence, and unmatched student experience.
- Ranked in the top 1% of universities worldwide (QS World Rankings)
- #1 in NZ for educational performance (Tertiary Education Commission)
- 96% of graduates go into work or on to further study (Graduate Opinion Survey)
- Highest-possible university rating of 5 Stars Plus (QS Stars Rating)
- Home to a total of 21,000 students, including international students from over 90 countries.
Life on Campus
The University of Otago main campus is located in the city of Dunedin – New Zealand’s student capital. Students make up one-fifth of Dunedin’s population, creating an energy and atmosphere that you’ll only find at Otago. Dunedin offers a wide range of accessible leisure activities. Ride the waves at some 30 nearby beaches, take on excellent mountain biking tracks, paddleboard, kayak or sail on the harbour, or head to Central Otago for a weekend at New Zealand’s top ski fields. It’s just part of life in Dunedin.
