Overview
The Politics programme at the University of Otago provides a rigorous academic foundation for students eager to understand the mechanisms of power and decision-making. By engaging with this curriculum, learners explore how societies create rules and how global interconnectedness shapes contemporary governance and international relations.
Students at this institution benefit from a learning environment that encourages intellectual independence and critical questioning. The teaching staff focus on providing the necessary tools for individuals to develop their own perspectives on complex societal issues, ensuring they are prepared for the challenges of a globalised 21st-century landscape.
Why Politics at the University of Otago?
The University of Otago distinguishes itself by offering comprehensive instruction across all four major subfields of the discipline: international relations, comparative politics, political theory, and the study of institutions. This breadth of coverage is maintained from introductory levels through to advanced postgraduate research.
The department is home to highly successful coursework master’s programmes, including the Master of International Studies and the Master of Politics. These offerings, alongside a robust PhD cohort, foster a vibrant research community where students can specialise in areas such as New Zealand foreign policy or global political economy.
Facilities and opportunities extend beyond the local campus, with an extensive exchange programme that allows students to study overseas. This global perspective is complemented by a strong focus on local contexts, including the Treaty of Waitangi and the specific political landscape of Aotearoa New Zealand.
Tuition Fee Breakdown
- International fee: NZD 37380 per year
- National fee: NZD 6938 per year
Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.
Syllabus
Modules may include:
- Aotearoa New Zealand Politics
- International Relations
- Comparative Politics
- Political Ideas in Action
- Theories of Justice
- Democracy
- Middle East Politics
- Nationalism and Identity
- Chinese Foreign Policy
- Te Tiriti/Treaty Politics
- Public Policy in New Zealand
- Marxism: Classical and Contemporary
- Global Politics
- Human Rights
- Ethics and Politics of Resistance
Careers with Politics
Graduates from the University of Otago find success in a diverse range of professional fields that value high-level communication and problem-solving skills. Many alumni pursue careers as policy analysts or advisers within government agencies and the broader public service sector.
The analytical training provided by the programme also prepares students for roles in the diplomatic service, international non-governmental organisations, and global advocacy. Others transition into media, journalism, or public affairs, where they apply their understanding of political systems to contemporary reporting.
Furthermore, the degree serves as an excellent foundation for consultancy roles in business and community organisations. Many students also choose to progress into further academic research or legal studies, leveraging the intellectual independence gained during their undergraduate years.
Programme Structure
Courses include:
- Contemporary Chinese Society
- Feminist Theory
- Governing Bodies
- Morality and Politics: Hobbes to Hume
- Ethics
- Justice, Race and Class
Key information
Duration
- Full-time
- 36 months
Start dates & application deadlines
- Starting
- Apply before , National
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- Starting
- Apply before , International
- Apply before , National
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- Starting
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Language
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Credits
Delivered
Campus Location
- Dunedin, New Zealand
Disciplines
Political Science View 17 other Bachelors in Political Science in New ZealandWhat students do after studying
Academic requirements
We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.
English requirements
Prepare for Your English Test
AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.
- Trusted by 300k learners
- 98 accuracy using real exam data
- 4.9/5 student rating
Other requirements
General requirements
- International Baccalaureate: IB Diploma with a minimum 24 points.
- Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) GCE Advanced Levels: minimum Numerical Score of 8.
- Satisfactory completion of one year's study at a recognised tertiary institution. A recognised institution is generally a college or university that is listed in the World Higher Education Database.
Student Insurance via Studyportals Partner
Make sure to cover your health, travel, and stay while studying abroad. Even global coverages can miss important items like Additional medical costs, Repatriation, Liability etc. Make sure your student insurance covers your needs.
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Get your student insurance nowStarting from €0.53/day, free cancellation any time.
Remember, countries and universities may have specific insurance requirements. To learn more about how student insurance work at University of Otago and/or in New Zealand, please visit Student Insurance Portal.
Tuition Fees
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International Applies to you
Applies to youNon-residents37380 NZD / year≈ 37380 NZD / year -
Domestic Applies to you
Applies to youCitizens or residents6938 NZD / year≈ 6938 NZD / year
Living costs
Dunedin
The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.
Funding
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Scholarships Information
Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Politics.
Available Scholarships
You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.
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