University of Otago

UNiversity of Otago

New Zealand

Index

Housing and infrastructures

Presentation

1.

5.

Location and environment

Cost of living and financing

2.

6.

Study programmes

Conclusion

3.

7.

Student life

Closure

4.

8.

Presentation

The University of Otago, founded in 1869, is New Zealand's oldest university. Renowned for its academic excellence and commitment to research, it ranks among the top 1% of universities worldwide. Today it is home to around 21,000 students, including more than 3,000 international students, making it a true cultural crossroads.

The University is particularly renowned for its courses in medicine, dentistry and health sciences, but it also offers a wide range of programmes in the sciences, humanities and business. With its dynamic environment, lively student town and state-of-the-art facilities, Otago is an ideal destination for students looking to study abroad in a stimulating and rewarding environment.

Dunedin

The University of Otago is located in Dunedin, a port city on the south-east coast of New Zealand's South Island. Dunedin is nicknamed the country's ‘student capital’ because of the large number of students who live there. The city has a strong Scottish influence, visible in its Victorian and Edwardian architecture, which gives it a unique charm. In addition to its historical heritage, Dunedin is surrounded by spectacular scenery, with wild beaches, mountains and nature reserves, offering students an exceptional living environment.

Study programs

English at Otago teaches the arts of reading and writing in an integrated way, by studying and discussing literary texts, and by practising the techniques of writing. The courses involve a combination of small-scale, discussion-based classes (tutorials) and larger-class teaching (lectures), which generally involve a variety of staff. In upper-level courses, class sizes are usually smaller and opportunities for discussion greater. At second and especially third year, there is generally a greater emphasis placed on independent and exploratory learning and research.

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Student life

Located in Dunedin, often referred to as New Zealand's ‘student capital’, the University of Otago is home to around 21,000 students, including almost 3,000 international students from over 90 countries. Students make up around a fifth of Dunedin's population, creating an energetic atmosphere that is uniquely Otago.

Dunedin offers a multitude of accessible leisure activities. Students can take advantage of over 30 nearby beaches for surfing, excellent mountain biking trails, paddleboarding, kayaking or sailing on the harbour. In addition, Central Otago, renowned for its ski areas, is easily accessible for weekend getaways.

The University of Otago supports a diverse and inclusive student community. The Otago University Students‘ Association (OUSA) and the Otago University International Students’ Association (OISA) play a central role in organising various events, clubs and activities to enrich student life. The Social Impact Studio serves as a university volunteer centre, offering students opportunities for volunteering and leadership.

The university year is punctuated by special events such as orientation week, formal dinners, ski trips, balls and various ground missions. These traditions reinforce the sense of belonging and allow students to create unforgettable memories.

Housing and infrastructures

The university offers a range of accommodation options to meet the varied needs of students:

• Student residences: The University of Otago has 15 student residences, accommodating almost 3,500 students. These residences offer a safe and friendly environment, making it easier for new students to integrate and encouraging social interaction.
• Shared accommodation in the city: After their first year, many students choose to live in shared accommodation in Dunedin.

The university provides high-quality facilities to support academic excellence :

• Libraries
• Laboratories and research centres
• Sports facilities
• Clubs and associations

Cost of living and financing

Tuition fees :

Student residences

Off campus housing : Generally, students choose to live in a shared house and the rent is around $200 per week.

International students can benefit from the Vice-Chancellor's Scholarship for International Students, which reduces the cost of tuition fees to $10,000 per year

Conclusion

Dunedin and the University of Otago offer an ideal academic and cultural experience for a French student. Located in a dynamic and affordable city, the university, one of the oldest and most prestigious in New Zealand, offers quality English language courses in a stimulating environment.

The University of Otago emphasises academic excellence, with performance scholarships and part-time work opportunities to support students. The town itself, with its friendly atmosphere and more affordable prices, allows students to enjoy student life to the full, while offering plenty of activities and a beautiful natural environment. It is a perfect destination for an international experience that is enriching both academically and personally.

Thanks for listening !

Laurianne & Margot

Study options

There are over 140 subjects that can be chosen. For your bachelor's degree, you'll need to choose a major subject. This is what you'll specialise in. With most degrees, you can optionally add a minor subject (which is like a mini specialisation)

• BA majoring in English
• Ba majoring in English and linguistics
• English as a minor