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New Zealand: University of Otago (AustraLearn) - Main Page

Prerequisites

AustraLearn’s University of Otago program requires a 3.0 GPA (4.0 scale).

Student Life

If you would like to study abroad in a comfortable student environment, consider AustraLearn's program in New Zealand at the University of Otago! New Zealand's oldest university, Otago was established in the town of Dunedin on the southern coast of New Zealand's South Island. The town's large student population creates a vibrant, young, and dynamic atmosphere that is ideal for study abroad.

New Zealand is famous for its beautiful coastlines, jagged mountain ranges, friendly people, and unique heritage influenced by the native Maori culture. It is located in the South Pacific about 1,400 miles east of Australia and consists of a few main islands plus several smaller surrounding islands. The population is just about 4 million people and contains a vibrant mix of European, Maori, Polynesian and Asian cultures.

New Zealand has a temperate climate and a stunning landscape that includes active volcanoes, clear blue lakes, snow-capped mountains, and rainforests. New Zealanders are warm, friendly, have respect for other cultures, and a desire to share the beauties of their native land with international visitors.

Dunedin was established in 1848 as a small Scottish settlement and today has a reputation for excellence. Its low cost of living and hour's proximity to some of the regions most spectacular sights and attractions are just a few things that attract students to Dunedin.

Scenic views like this are abundant throughout New Zealand. See them for yourself during a semester or year in New Zealand!

Orientation

AustraLearn organizes an orientation on the North Island during the first four days of the semester in New Zealand. In addition to meeting other AustraLearn participants, students visit Auckland and travel through the heart of the island to Rotorua to explore the indigenous culture. This orientation offers a chance to discuss the culture of New Zealand and its relationship to the whole study abroad experience. Upon arrival at Otago, the Study Abroad Office holds a special orientation that introduces students to life in Dunedin and provides pertinent information about facilities at the University for study abroad students.

Accommodation

Students live in off-campus accommodation at The University of Otago called "flats." Independent students who enjoy cooking for themselves and/or want a chance to try the local cuisine should take advantage of this self-catering lifestyle by living in a flat surrounding the central campus area. These apartments generally house 4-6 students and offer a great chance for cultural immersion. Most students are placed in housing with local New Zealand students.

There are several trips and excursions to surrounding areas offered by the University's Recreation Services office. These can include hiking, skiing/snowboarding, cycle tours, horseback riding, sea-kayaking, yoga, arts and crafts and more. More information can be obtained upon arrival in Dunedin.

Courses

The University of Otago boasts a fantastic student academic experience. Particularly strong in the area of biological sciences, some other academic highlights at Otago are Business, Earth and Ocean Sciences, Computer and Information Sciences, Humanities, Law and Communication, Maori Studies, Performing Arts, and Theology. New Zealand Studies and Geology are popular subjects with incoming study abroad students as they offer the chance to gain more in-depth knowledge of the host country and culture. For more information visit the Department of Geology's website for international students!

The equivalent to AU's full-time standing of 12-17 credit hours at Otago is about 18-24 credit points. Since each course (known as a "paper" in New Zealand) is usually worth about 6 credit points, AU students will generally enroll in 3-4 subjects per semester. To learn more about possible areas of study at Otago, use their helpful course search feature.