Otago Polytechnic has a long history of delivering exceptional education – we trace our roots back to New Zealand’s first Art School, established in Dunedin in 1870.

We now have a long tradition of producing excellent graduates who go on to become productive, thoughtful and creative members of their chosen profession.

International students choose Otago Polytechnic for their New Zealand study experience because of our reputation for providing an exceptional and internationally recognised education. Nationally ranked at the top of our sector*, Otago Polytechnic is an acclaimed and highly regarded institute of applied research and technology.  (*Based on Performance Based Research Funding [PBRF] Quality Evaluation from the New Zealand Government’s Tertiary Education Commission, see www.tec.govt.nz)

International students receive all the support they need to study successfully at Otago Polytechnic, with plenty of opportunities to join in with the social and recreational activities organised on campus. By studying in small classes, with lecturers who know you by name, you’ll develop lifelong friendships with New Zealanders and other international students. Your study experience at Otago Polytechnic will be rewarding, challenging and memorable.
As a student here, you’ll benefit from an education that emphasises real-world learning with a strong theoretical base. As a graduate, you will be well prepared to succeed and thrive in the global community.

Why Choose Otago Polytechnic?
Qualifications
We offer internationally recognised degrees, diplomas, certificates, and postgraduate qualifications in a range of subject areas. Academically ranked at the top of our sector in design, health studies, visual arts and crafts, information technology and information services, you’ll both enjoy and benefit from our outstanding study environment.

Experience
Internationally, employers want team members who are well educated, adaptable, and ready to contribute to their workplace. All
of our courses focus on developing these real-life skills, and, when combined with work experience, our graduates are ready for international career success.
Guidance
Our academic staff are experienced in their field, experts in cutting-edge technology, dedicated to research and always available to give students the support and guidance they need to reach their academic goals.

Support
We will help you make the most of your student experience in New Zealand. With well-resourced recreational facilities, academic support services such as our Learning Centre, assistance with finding the right accommodation, and extensive international student support services, your success is our highest priority.

Unbeatable lifestyle
New Zealand has a worldwide reputation for being a welcoming and safe destination, with a friendly and honest populace. From snow-capped mountains to beaches to sophisticated, modern cities, New Zealand offers the best of all worlds. 

Campus locations
Otago Polytechnic welcomes students from all over the world to our two beautiful campuses in the city of Dunedin and the region of Central Otago. Both our campuses are located in New Zealand’s lower South Island. Legendary for its awesome landscapes, with lush forests, towering mountains and amazing wildlife, the South Island is an amazing place for outdoor adventures. With a multicultural and diverse society, our friendly people will welcome you. And there’s plenty to do, from sport and outdoor activities to arts and culture.

The Dunedin campus
In Dunedin, you’ll enjoy being
part of the student atmosphere. As New Zealand’s premier centre of learning, Dunedin is home to a tertiary student population of over 25,000! Students give the city a special character, contributing to its vibrant and lively atmosphere.  Our Dunedin campus is located in the heart of the tertiary education environment, surrounded by green parks, student accommodation and a vibrant cafe and bar culture.

Dunedin: Programme options
Adventure, applied science, architectural draughting, art, animal health business management, design, construction management, IT, cookery, engineering, quantity surveying, horticulture, hospitality management, massage therapy, midwifery, nursing, occupational therapy, outdoor leadership, social services and veterinary nursing.

The Central Otago campuses
In Central Otago the scenery, the friendly people and the adventure opportunities will amaze you! With snow-capped mountains, icy rivers, pristine lakes and tussock-covered hills, it’s a beautiful place where most people can only dream of living. You will find yourself in good company here – tourism and hospitality activities, viticulture, adventure sports, and a truly unbeatable lifestyle attracts visitors from around the world. Our main campus is in the town of Cromwell, with campuses also in the adventure capitals of Queenstown and Wanaka. 

Central Otago: Programme options
Cookery and professional cookery, horticulture, viticulture, sustainable practice, sports turf management, snowsports instructing, avalanche studies and stonemasonry.
Please visit our website (below) for more details and information.

Ben Koebele from Germany is studying the Bachelor of Applied Management (Tourism Management) at Otago Poly

Ben Koebele’s Bachelor of Applied Management (Tourism Management) degree saw him based in Dunedin while he learnt about the management and entrepreneurial skills required by leaders in the business world. Ben has also undertaken further specialised study focusing on the needs of the tourism industry at local, national and international levels. Over Ben’s time as an international student at Otago Polytechnic he has been touched by how much support he has received, and is equally impressed with the high level of personalised teaching. “The small classes have really blown me away. I’m finding you learn so much more in a small group setting because it’s intense – you really have to take part in discussions.”