As New Zealand's first university, founded in 1869, the University of Otago has earned an international reputation for excellence in research and teaching. Otago is ranked in the top 1% of universities in the world and offers 200+ undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across Business, Health Science, Humanities and Science subjects. Otago at a glance  5-stars plus QS Stars ranking, reflecting quality and excellence across teaching, employability, internationalisation, and research.  A national presence, with our main campus in Dunedin, and specialised campuses in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Invercargill.  New Zealand’s top university for student performance and retention (TEC Educational Performance Indicators).  85% of our students come from outside of Dunedin to study here.  21,000 students, including 3,000 students from 100+ countries.  95% of our students go into work or to further study. Academic excellence Otago is renowned as one of the top research universities in the Asia-Pacific region and produces the most winners of national teaching awards of any university in New Zealand. The academic staff profile is diverse and truly world-class, with one of the highest proportion of internationally-trained academic staff in the world – helping to provide a global perspective and foster international collaborations. With over 200 undergraduate and postgraduate programmes on offer, many of the programmes at Otago are the only ones of their kind in New Zealand. Otago also has the best performance indicators of any New Zealand university for successful completion of courses and qualifications, student progression to higher level study, and students retained in study. Outstanding student experience Otago offers students an unrivalled campus experience and a vibrant, social student culture. The majority of Otago’s 21,000 students live, work and play in Dunedin - New Zealand’s only true university city. Otago students are supported by dozens of dedicated on-campus support services, ensuring that students get the very best out of their time here. Numerous accommodation options are available, including 15 residential colleges, which provide a supportive environment that enables students to develop their independence, build a social network and succeed in their academic endeavours. There are over 150 student clubs and societies to get involved in; forested hills, beaches, incredible wildlife and a beautiful natural harbour on the doorstep; and lakes, mountains and world-class ski resorts within a few hours’ drive of the city. Globally employable graduates, socially responsible citizens 95% of our students go into work or to further study in New Zealand and around the world. 112,000 Otago alumni are living in 145 countries, with many occupying influential positions in industry, government and within their communities. The university has a reputation for producing well-rounded, practical, adaptable, resilient graduates, who are highly sought after by employers. Otago students don’t just focus on academic pursuits, they learn life skills, creative thinking, problem-solving and team dynamics. Outside of study, they are encouraged to get involved in a wide range of sporting, cultural and community-based activities during their time here. Otago’s Social Impact Studio achieves student-driven change through volunteering and leadership. We believe in channelling student creativity, vision, and insight for maximum social impact through our incredible volunteer programmes. Around 4,000 Otago students are registered volunteers, working with over 200 community organisations. Amazing facilities across New Zealand The University of Otago stretches from Auckland in the north of the country to Invercargill in the south. While most study takes place at our stunning Dunedin campus, the Health Science-focused campuses in Christchurch and Wellington are home to many of our postgraduate students. Otago is an intriguing mix of old and new – from our iconic Clocktower Building to world-class teaching and research labs, performance spaces, lecture theatres, sporting facilities, and study areas, including our award-winning Central Library. The Otago factor Otago offers a world-class academic experience, but one of the key things that set Otago apart is that we attract and foster independence. We provide academic programmes, accommodation options, support, and a teaching style that caters to the individual and enables each student to identify and develop their strengths – both inside and outside of the classroom. Otago degrees are flexible, allowing students to combine subjects that might not normally be studied together, and most students can complement their degree with elective courses of personal and professional interest to them. Our study is self-directed and interactive, with many opportunities for hands-on learning outside of the classroom. A warm welcome – “Manaakitanga” The concept of “manaakitanga” is key in Māori and New Zealand society, loosely referring to the importance of openly and warmly welcoming visitors, of having a mutual respect for one another. Otago offers a rich cultural life, reflecting a diverse international university community and New Zealand's own multicultural population. Response to COVID19 New Zealand has been world-leading in the fight against COVID-19 and a number of Otago staff have worked closely with the New Zealand Government in an advisory capacity, including our experts in Public Health, Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Economics, Mathematics. Their collective calls to action had a direct impact on Government decision-making and they are now among the most prominent public faces of New Zealand’s widely praised evidence-based response. Hand-in-hand with the academic and teaching action has been the work to support students. In response to this extraordinary time, Otago has implemented a number of student-focused initiatives:  Online learning A wider range of Otago qualifications are now available through online learning.  2021 International Scholarships Additional to existing scholarships, Otago now offers new dedicated international undergraduate, postgraduate and pathway scholarships designed to support international students to pursue their academic goals.  Pūtea Tautoko Student Hardship Fund A support fund for students facing serious financial hardship as a result of COVID-19 is available to all students, whether they are New Zealand or international students.  AskOtago and International Student Support Providing a focal point for special communication and support, and connects students with the important information and services around the University.