University of Otago

What you'll study

The BA at Otago lets you choose one or more majors and a range of elective papers from across the arts, social sciences and languages. Commonly chosen subjects include English, History, Philosophy, Sociology, Anthropology, Politics, Economics (as a BA pathway), Media and Communication, Classics, Art History, Music, Theatre Studies, Te Tumu (Māori Studies), Pacific Islands Studies and a wide selection of modern languages (for example Māori, Chinese, French, German and Japanese).

Study is typically undertaken over three full‑time years, combining introductory level papers in your first year with progressively specialised courses at second and third year. You can mix single or conjoint degrees and may choose minors or complementary subjects. The BA also provides routes into a one‑year Honours programme or other postgraduate qualifications for students wishing to specialise further.

• First year: introductory papers across different disciplines to explore options and meet degree entry requirements for majors.
• Second year: intermediate papers that build disciplinary knowledge and research skills.
• Third year: advanced courses with opportunities for independent research projects, capstone seminars and community or workplace‑based learning depending on the subject.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally required to hold a recognised secondary school qualification (for example New Zealand University Entrance) or an international equivalent. Selection considers academic performance in relevant subjects and the overall strength of your application. Certain majors may have specific prerequisites or recommended prior study, particularly language programmes or numeracy‑intensive subjects.

International students must meet the University’s English language proficiency requirement, demonstrated through standard tests (such as IELTS or TOEFL) or equivalent evidence. Applicants with prior tertiary study, professional experience or non‑standard backgrounds should consult Otago’s admissions guidance for Aegrotat, transfer and recognition of prior learning arrangements.

Career prospects

A BA provides broad transferable skills valued by employers, including written and oral communication, critical thinking, research, cultural literacy and problem solving. Graduates move into diverse roles across the public, private and non‑profit sectors.

• Policy analyst, public service and local government roles
• Journalism, publishing, communications and public relations
• Human resources, marketing and community engagement
• Heritage, museums, libraries and arts administration
• Education and training (often followed by a teaching qualification)
• Social services, iwi and community organisations, NGO sector
• Further study: Honours, Masters, professional qualifications (for example law, social work, teaching) or doctoral research

Why study at University of Otago

Otago offers a collegiate campus environment in Dunedin with strong teaching traditions in the humanities and social sciences and particular research expertise in Māori and Pacific studies. Small‑group teaching, accessible academic staff and an active lecture programme give students both breadth and the chance to pursue specialised interests.

Students benefit from well‑resourced libraries, research centres, study‑abroad agreements and internship opportunities with local and national organisations. Otago’s vibrant cultural scene and supportive student services make it a good choice for students seeking an engaged and community‑oriented undergraduate arts education.