The Otago MBA is ranked #1 in New Zealand | Ko te MBA o Ōtākou kei te tihi o te maunga ki Aotearoa
(QS Online MBA Ranking 2022 #26 and #1 for Class Experience, QS Global MBA Rankings 2022 Top NZ MBA)
Established in 1976, the Otago MBA emphasises practical application of business theories through case studies, live cases and professional consulting engagements. Preparing students for careers anywhere in the world, we offer diversity in class and a rigorous practice-oriented curriculum with strong elements of international business.
The University of Otago is consistently ranked in the top 200 universities of the world by the QS World University Ranking. This places Otago in the top 1% of universities in the world. The Otago Business School holds dual EQUIS and AASCB accreditation, a level of international recognition less than 100 business schools have achieved worldwide. And thanks to our ongoing commitment to meet the ever-changing needs of future business leaders, it is no surprise that the Otago MBA is ranked #1 in New Zealand.
For a reputable programme that ranks among the world's best MBAs, our tuition fees are comparatively affordable. Additionally, the cost of living in Dunedin is among the lowest for New Zealand cities. What is more, Dunedin was voted most beautiful city in New Zealand, and the University of Otago campus is rated one of the top-15 most beautiful campuses in the world.
Why choose the Otago MBA?
Find out what makes the Otago MBA the #1 MBA in New Zealand.
The on-campus programmes include a live case study conducted in collaboration with the business community.
Extra-curricular activities
Extra-curricular activities and professional development opportunities vary for online and on-campus programmes.
Activity
On-campus full-time
On-campus part-time
Online
Guest speakers
Yes
Yes
Yes
MBA Case Competition
Yes
Yes
Yes
Professional development programme
Yes
Yes
No
Mentor programme
Yes
No
No
One-to-one personal coaching
Yes
Yes
No
Workshops and seminars
Yes
Yes
No
Business networking events
Yes
Yes
No
Phase two of the Otago MBA can be completed through one or a combination of the following options:
Professional consulting engagement
This business project is one of the highlights of the Otago MBA programme. It is an opportunity to work with a real-world client on a project that is aligned with your career ambition. Your project is marked based on your ability to manage the project process, interactions with the client and the quality of your final report.
Elective papers (on-campus only, available to online students)
The University of Otago MBA offers six 10-point short courses in advanced topics taught every January to February.
International exchange programme
The Otago MBA has international exchange partnerships with various MBA business schools and universities around the world:
The application deadline is 6 weeks prior to the first class for each intake.
The Otago MBA's rolling admissions process means applications are considered as they are received.
Please submit your application early. Class sizes are limited and applications for each cohort close when seats are filled.
The Otago MBA application process is rigorous. It includes completing the application form, an entrance test and an interview via video conference where you will be asked to do a presentation on a recent news item. You will be notified of the result within one week of completing the interview.
The application process and entry requirements are the same for both the Online and On-campus intakes of the Otago MBA programme.
For entry into the Otago MBA, students must meet the following criteria:
An undergraduate degree (or equivalent or an acceptable level of management experience)
A minimum of 3 years' professional / management experience
A 550+ GMAT score or a 'pass' in the Otago MBA Admissions Test
An IELTS score of 6.5 or equivalent (if English is not your first language)
The Otago MBA minimum entry requirements are the same for both online and on-campus.
How to apply
Step: 1 – Online Application Form Complete the application form including an upload of your most recent CV/Resume. The Otago MBA has a rolling admissions process, accepting and assessing application as they are received.
Step: 2 – Entrance Test The Otago MBA Admissions Test (OAT) is a written test case study analysis which is completed by video conference. Our office will guide you through this process once your fully completed application form has been received and assessed. Alternatively you can provide a GMAT test result with score of 550 or higher.
Step: 3 – Interview You will be interviewed by the Otago MBA Admissions Manager via video conference. As part of the interview, you will be required to provide a short verbal presentation on a business or news topic of your choice.
Step: 4 – MBA Admission – Final Decision A decision will be made on your application within one week of the interview. You will need to start preparing your supporting documentations for your final University admissions application.
Step: 5 – University Admission – Final Offer of Place You will need to complete your University Admissions application via our eVision system. You will be required to upload certified copies of any previous academic transcripts and identification documents such as your passport biopage.
