University of Otago Logo University of Otago

Address: 362 Leith St, North Dunedin, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand
Phone: +64 3 479 7000
Email: university@otago.ac.nz
Website: www.otago.ac.nz


The University of Otago has specific language requirements for international students whose first language is not English. These requirements ensure that students have a sufficient level of English proficiency to succeed in their studies.

English Language Requirements for Undergraduate and Postgraduate Programs:

1. IELTS (International English Language Testing System):

  • Undergraduate Programs: Overall score of 6.0 with no individual band below 5.5.
  • Postgraduate Programs: Overall score of 6.5 with no individual band below 6.0.

2. TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language):

  • Undergraduate Programs:
    • Paper-based: Total score of 550 with a minimum TWE (Test of Written English) score of 4.5.
    • Internet-based: Total score of 80 with a writing score of 20.
  • Postgraduate Programs:
    • Paper-based: Total score of 587 with a minimum TWE score of 4.5.
    • Internet-based: Total score of 95 with a writing score of 22.

3. Cambridge English Qualifications:

  • C1 Advanced (formerly CAE) or C2 Proficiency (formerly CPE):
    • Undergraduate: Overall score of 176 with no band below 169.
    • Postgraduate: Overall score of 176 with no band below 169.

4. Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic:

  • Undergraduate Programs: Overall score of 58 with no communicative skills score below 50.
  • Postgraduate Programs: Overall score of 64 with no communicative skills score below 58.

5. University of Otago Language Centre (Foundation Year):

  • Completion of the University of Otago English for Otago program, which is designed to meet the language entry requirements for most undergraduate programs.

Other Acceptable Qualifications:

  • Some qualifications from English-medium schools or universities may also be accepted, but these will need to be assessed by the university on a case-by-case basis.
  • Applicants who have completed their previous education in English (e.g., in countries like the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, or New Zealand) may be exempt from providing language test scores.

Specialized Programs:

  • Some programs, particularly in health sciences and law, may have higher language requirements. It's important to check the specific requirements for the course you are interested in.

The University of Otago offers a wide range of courses and is especially renowned for certain fields of study. Here are the university's key course specialities:

1. Health Sciences

  • Medicine: The University of Otago has one of New Zealand’s most prestigious medical schools, which is highly competitive and known for producing top-tier medical professionals.
  • Dentistry: Otago’s Faculty of Dentistry is the only dental school in New Zealand and one of the best in the world.
  • Pharmacy: The School of Pharmacy is recognized for its high-quality education and research in pharmaceutical sciences.
  • Physiotherapy: Otago’s physiotherapy program is well-respected and offers cutting-edge research and practical experience.
  • Public Health: Strong in epidemiology, community health, and global health.

2. Biomedical Sciences

  • The university’s programs in biochemistry, microbiology, and genetics are top-rated, particularly with a focus on medical and health-related research.

3. Law

  • The University of Otago’s Faculty of Law is one of New Zealand's best, with a strong focus on constitutional law, environmental law, and indigenous rights, particularly Māori law.

4. Business and Economics

  • Otago’s School of Business is highly regarded, offering programs in accounting, finance, economics, marketing, and international business. The MBA program at Otago is particularly well-regarded in the Asia-Pacific region.

5. Science

  • Marine Science: The university is a leader in marine research due to its proximity to diverse marine ecosystems.
  • Geology: Otago is recognized globally for its strength in geology, particularly in earth sciences and Antarctic research.
  • Ecology and Environmental Science: The university offers cutting-edge programs that focus on New Zealand’s unique ecosystems, conservation efforts, and environmental sustainability.

6. Humanities

  • History: Known for research on colonial, indigenous, and environmental history, especially in New Zealand and the Pacific.
  • Archaeology: Otago offers excellent programs in archaeological studies, with a focus on Pacific and Polynesian archaeology.
  • Anthropology: Renowned for cultural anthropology, focusing on Pacific societies.
  • Māori, Pacific, and Indigenous Studies: Otago is a leader in indigenous studies with a strong emphasis on Māori language, culture, and society.

7. Psychology and Neuroscience

  • The psychology department at Otago is highly regarded for its research into behavioral neuroscience, clinical psychology, and developmental psychology.

8. Nutrition and Dietetics

  • Otago offers New Zealand’s leading programs in human nutrition and dietetics, with a strong research focus on public health nutrition.

9. Creative Arts and Communication

  • Film and Media Studies: Otago has a growing reputation in media studies, film production, and creative arts.
  • Performing Arts and Music: The university offers well-rounded programs in music performance, music technology, and theater studies.

10. Theology and Religious Studies

  • The university is home to New Zealand’s oldest school of theology, known for strong academic work in both religious history and contemporary religious studies.

The University of Otago has a number of distinguished professors who are highly regarded in their respective fields. Some of the university's top professors have received international recognition for their research, teaching, and contributions to academia. Here are a few prominent professors from various disciplines at the University of Otago:

1. Professor Richie Poulton

  • Field: Psychology
  • Position: Director of the Dunedin Multidisciplinary Health and Development Study (also known as the Dunedin Study)
  • Why Notable: Professor Poulton is one of the world’s leading developmental psychologists and has been instrumental in the long-term Dunedin Study, which has significantly influenced global understanding of human development and health.
  • Accolades: Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit (CNZM), Fellow of the Royal Society of New Zealand.

2. Professor Sir Murray Brennan

  • Field: Surgical Oncology
  • Position: Distinguished Professor of Surgery
  • Why Notable: A world-renowned cancer surgeon and researcher, Sir Murray Brennan is known for his groundbreaking work in soft tissue sarcoma. Though he is based in the U.S. at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, he maintains a strong connection with Otago.
  • Accolades: Knighted in 2015 for services to medicine, Honorary Fellow of multiple surgical colleges globally.

3. Professor Lisa Matisoo-Smith

  • Field: Biological Anthropology and Archaeogenetics
  • Position: Professor of Biological Anthropology
  • Why Notable: A leading expert on human migration and the genetic ancestry of Pacific populations. She has conducted extensive research on the peopling of the Pacific and the impact of human migration on biodiversity.
  • Accolades: Fellow of the Royal Society of New Zealand, co-recipient of the Prime Minister's Science Prize.

4. Professor David Baxter

  • Field: Physiotherapy
  • Position: Professor of Physiotherapy
  • Why Notable: An internationally recognized expert in rehabilitation, pain management, and laser therapy. He has been pivotal in advancing research and practice in physiotherapy worldwide.
  • Accolades: Fellow of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (UK), past President of the World Confederation for Physical Therapy.

5. Professor Robert Patman

  • Field: International Relations and Politics
  • Position: Professor of International Relations
  • Why Notable: A highly respected analyst of New Zealand foreign policy and global security issues, Professor Patman frequently provides expert commentary on international affairs in the media.
  • Public Engagement: Regular contributor to national and international news outlets, known for his research on U.S. foreign policy, small states, and cybersecurity.

6. Professor Harlene Hayne (Former Staff)

  • Field: Psychology
  • Position: Former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Otago (2011–2020)
  • Why Notable: As a prominent psychologist and leader, Professor Hayne made significant contributions to the university’s academic and research growth. Her work on memory and cognitive development is internationally recognized.
  • Current Role: Vice-Chancellor of Curtin University in Australia.

7. Professor Helen Nicholson

  • Field: Anatomy and Medical Education
  • Position: Deputy Vice-Chancellor (External Engagement)
  • Why Notable: An expert in anatomy and medical education, Professor Nicholson has made significant contributions to health sciences education and public health outreach in New Zealand.

8. Professor Craig Rodger

  • Field: Physics
  • Position: Professor of Physics
  • Why Notable: Renowned for his research in space physics, particularly in understanding the Earth's radiation belts and the impact of solar storms on satellite systems and communication.

The University of Otago has a notable history of academic excellence and research, but it does not have any Nobel Prize winners directly affiliated with its institution (as of my knowledge cutoff in October 2023). However, the university has contributed significantly to various fields of research, especially in health sciences, biomedical sciences, and environmental science.

Notable Nobel Prize Connections:

Although no laureates have been primarily associated with Otago, there are some connections worth noting:

  1. Collaborations and Research Impact:

    • Otago researchers have contributed to global research efforts that have been recognized by Nobel-winning discoveries, particularly in fields like medical research and physiology.

  2. Nobel Laureates Visiting the University:

    • The university regularly hosts Nobel laureates for lectures and collaborative research discussions, allowing students and staff to engage with world-leading scientists.

  3. Otago Alumni:

    • While no Otago alumnus has directly won a Nobel Prize, many graduates have achieved prominence in fields of research and academia, contributing to Nobel-winning work at other institutions.

The University of Otago is New Zealand's first university, established in 1869. Over 150 years later, Otago remains a leading institution in New Zealand, with a long standing and international reputation for academic excellence. Otago is New Zealand's top university for educational performance, with a faculty composed of world-class academics and scholars at the cutting edge of their respective fields. Otago prides itself on being a research-led University and is the top ranked in the country for international student learning. 

Otago offers an unmatched student experience, with the main campus located in Dunedin, New Zealand’s only true student city, with a population of over 21,000 students living, working, and studying. Otago boasts high levels of student satisfaction, and produces globally employable graduates, with 95% of students entering directly into further study or work.

Otago is proud to be the top ranked University in the country for international student learning, with 25 subject areas in the top 200 globally, as per the QS World University Rankings by subject.

It first received a Five Stars Plus QS Stars University rating in 2016 (and again in 2018 and 2021).

Most undergraduate and postgraduate study takes place on the Dunedin campus, but the University also has Schools of Medicine and Health Sciences in  Wellington  and  Christchurch , which are home to many leading medical researchers.

Otago offers more than 200 undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across four divisions:


It also offers a  Summer School , Study Abroad, Exchange and  Distance Learning  programmes.

The University of Otago, located in Dunedin, New Zealand, is renowned for several reasons:

1. Oldest University in New Zealand:

  • Established in 1869, Otago is the oldest university in New Zealand. It has a long-standing tradition of academic excellence and is one of the leading universities in the Southern Hemisphere.

2. Strong Research Focus:

  • Otago has a reputation for research excellence, particularly in the fields of health sciences, medical research, and environmental science. Its medical school is one of the most prominent in New Zealand and is known for producing highly skilled healthcare professionals.

3. World-Class Health Sciences Division:

  • The University of Otago is particularly famous for its medical school, which is a leading institution in the Southern Hemisphere. It has a broad array of health science programs, including medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, and physiotherapy.

4. Campus Culture and Student Life:

  • Otago is well-known for its vibrant campus culture. The university is home to a large number of residential colleges (halls of residence), and Dunedin is known as a "student city," with much of the town’s life revolving around the university and its students.
  • The university has a strong tradition of student events, such as the Hyde Street Party, and an active student body, making it a highly attractive option for students seeking a lively academic and social environment.

5. International Reputation:

  • The University of Otago consistently ranks highly in global university rankings, particularly for its research output and student experience. It is also internationally recognized for its work in fields like geology, marine science, and law.

6. Natural Environment and Location:

  • The university is located in a scenic part of New Zealand, close to stunning natural landscapes, including beaches, mountains, and wildlife reserves. This location attracts many students who appreciate the combination of academic study and access to nature.

7. Alumni and Academic Excellence:

  • Otago boasts a number of distinguished alumni, including leaders in politics, science, medicine, and the arts. Its graduates are well-regarded both in New Zealand and internationally.

8. Research and Innovation:

  • The university is known for innovation in areas such as biotechnology, public health, and indigenous studies. It has been a leader in addressing issues pertinent to New Zealand and the Pacific region.

9. Support for International Students:

  • The university has a strong emphasis on internationalization, attracting students from around the globe. Otago provides comprehensive support for international students, including scholarships, English language programs, and orientation services.