University is a big change from school and can sometimes feel overwhelming. The good news is you don’t have to figure everything out on your own.
Read on to learn how you can prepare for university when you're at high school.
Planning for university
What you do at school counts, and so do your results. Good grades in the recommended subjects, especially in Year 13, will help set you up for success at university.
Year 11 | Year 12 | Year 13 |
|---|---|---|
English, Maths and Science strongly recommended | English and Maths strongly recommended | Studying five UE approved subjects is recommended |
Add at least two subject options | Aim to achieve at least 10 Level 2 Literacy credits | Ensure you are on track to gain University Entrance |
Aim to achieve at least 10 Level 2 Literacy credits | Choose Science subjects if considering a science-based career | |
Studying five UE approved subjects is recommended |
Set yourself up for success
Already know what you want to study? Make sure you're on track at school with our list of required and recommended subjects:
Bridging the gap to university
Understanding the key differences between school and university will help you bridge the gap and make your time here as stress free as possible.
Your degree, your way
Your first year at university is about studying what you’re interested in! Pick subjects and papers that you’re curious about and keep an open mind – you never know what you might discover. Our degrees are flexible – you can change your major, minor or even your whole degree if it’s not right for you. We offer a wide range of subjects across Business, Humanities, Health Sciences and Sciences and can help you choose what to study if you’re stuck.
You manage your own time
Are you an early bird or a night owl? Would you rather study with a group of friends or by yourself? Do you want to write assignments at home or in the library?
Outside of your scheduled timetable you get to choose how you manage your time. Use it to your advantage and study when it works for you.
You learn in different ways
Lectures are the main teaching method and in first-year there can be up to 500 students at a lecture. Laboratory sessions (labs) involve experimental or practical work for hands-on learning. Tutorials (tutes) are small group sessions, led by a tutor, where you discuss what you need to learn and get individual help.
You’re responsible for your own learning
You have much more independence at university and need to stay motivated to keep on track, but remember, you can always ask for help! Our diverse support services – including Student Learning Development, Course Advice, and Disability Information and Support – offer everything you need for a successful journey at Otago.
Need some advice? We're here to help.
Choosing what to study
There’s a lot to think about when deciding what to study at university. Here are some of the things to consider.
What interests you?
Studying a subject that genuinely fascinates you will make your time at university easier and more enjoyable. You might have a few subjects you enjoy – use your first year to explore your interests and work out which subject you’re going to specialise in.
Do you have a specific career goal?
This can help narrow down your search but still make sure you investigate all your options. Otago degrees offer a lot of flexibility – you might be able to incorporate your interests while still working towards your career goals.
Are you driven to solve a particular issue?
Are you interested in something like climate change or health inequity but have no idea which subject would best suit this goal? Explore our subject areas to discover programmes you might not be familiar with.
Find your study path
Explore our subject areas and find a study option that fits your interests and your career goals.
Explore subjects