IFSA University of Otago
- Location: Dunedin, New Zealand
- Minimum GPA: 3.0
- Language of Instruction: English
- Class Eligibility: Juniors
Introduction
IFSA Virtual Information Sessions
Located on a peninsula in the South Island of New Zealand, Dunedin is home to fine architecture, cultural attractions, and world-famous wildlife reserves. The University of Otago was founded in 1869, making it New Zealand’s oldest university. The university has a strong focus on research, especially in nature-related sciences. Additionally, the university boasts a close relationship with Ngai Tahu, a South Island Maori tribe, who contribute to the Pacific and Maori Studies program on campus. Nearly all students live within walking distance of campus and the city center.
- Visa:
Required. Non-U.S. Citizens may have to meet additional requirements to study abroad in NZ depending on their country of citizenship. Non-US citizens should consult with IFSA and the Office of International Student Support before applying to the program.
- Fees: Students pay Haverford tuition to Haverford College. Haverford will then be responsible for submitting payments to the program. Student pay room and board fees directly to IFSA.
Academic Overview
Requirements
Students are strongly encouraged to take the indigenous Māori language while studying abroad in New Zealand.
Academic Credit
15 point classes in New Zealand are equal to one Haverford credit. Students must take at least 60 points. This is equivalent to four courses at Haverford. Transfer credit will only be granted for courses in which students receive a grade of a C (2.0) or above.
Curriculum
Students may take any of the available courses offered at the university. A course catalog can be found at the University of Otago’s website.
Course Highlights
Accounting, Anatomy, Anthropology, Applied Sciences, Archaeology, Art History, Biochemistry, Biology, Biomedical Sciences, Business Studies, Chemistry, Classics, Communications, Computer Science, Economics, Education, English, Film, Finance, Food Science, Gender Studies, Genetics, Geography, Geology, History, Immunology, Information Sciences, Linguistics, Management, Maori Studies, Marine Sciences, Marketing, Mathematics, Media, Microbiology, Music, Neuroscience, Oceanography, Pacific Studies, Philosophy, Physics, Politics, Psychology, Social Work, Sociology, Statistics, Theater
Note: Changes occur frequently. Students are responsible for finding the classes they need and consulting the official site of the institution.
Non-Academic Overview
Orientation
Provided by IFSA
Number of Students
Over 20,000 students attend the University of Otago.
Housing/Meal Plans
Students will live in co-ed flats with other international and local students. Each student will have their own internet-equipped bedroom, and share bathroom, living room, and kitchen facilities with several other students. Additional facilities such as laundry rooms, study, music, and game rooms are accessible in the halls. The apartments are typically within walking distance to the university. Housing is self-catered and includes kitchens where students can prepare their own meals.
Haverford students may not opt for housing not arranged by the program.
Notes
Additional Resources
- Support for LGTBQIA+ Students
- IFSA Inclusive Excellence
- Mental Health & Self Care While Abroad
- Diversity Abroad
Options
- Semester
- STEM Courses Offered
- Direct Enrollment
Dates
- Semester I: Early July- mid-November
- Semester II: Mid-February to late June
Application Deadlines
- Semester I: March 1
- Semester II: October 1