Find out what it’s like to be a distance learning student at Otago. Read their stories below.
Marni Adlam
Ngāpuhi, Te Aupōuri, Te Rarawa
Diploma for Graduates (Biblical Studies)
"I transferred to Otago after hearing about the great reputation of the faculty members. I was lucky the courses were long-distance, so I was able to study around full-time work and remain living away from Dunedin.
My expectations of Otago have been exceeded. The papers are rich in content and the lecturers fully engage in their teaching process. In my first few weeks, there were a variety of workshops in which students were shown how to access the library and online platforms, and who to connect with and email for help on topics – the system is very user-friendly!
The staff in the distance learning programme are experienced and well-equipped to teach a hybrid class model for online and offline students. As well, the classes are recorded for you to watch later if you can’t make the scheduled time. The magic of distance learning is being able to Zoom in, and at times, turn my camera off to fold some washing or cook dinner while still learning!”
Laks Balasubramanian
Studying for a Master of Business Data Science (MBusDataSc)
“As an experienced data scientist, I was interested in learning cutting-edge skills and completing further studies. I found Otago’s Master of Business Data Science offered a unique blend of business and analytical skills required to leverage data, generate insights and solve problems.
As a working professional, I chose to study by distance learning and part-time for the flexibility this offered. It has enabled me to have the best of both worlds.
I am half-way through my studies, and the learning experience has been great. I have received incredible support from the programme advisor and other professors and tutors. They have extended their support by organising additional office hours and sessions to clarify students’ doubts and questions, which is highly appreciated.
Distance learning provides great flexibility in how you structure your degree, and I would highly recommend studying by distance through the University of Otago if you’re a working professional living outside Dunedin.”
Natalie Lanfear
Doctor of Education candidate, Master of Education and Learning
“Otago has one of the only Doctor of Education programmes available via distance study in New Zealand. Completing a doctorate level qualification via distance learning is ideal for people on the go. It’s appealing for educators, like me, who are aiming to maintain a balance between work, study and personal commitments.
Any distance student would likely tell of feeling isolated at times, but regularly using technology like video conferencing can help you feel connected – especially when discussing assessment requirements or needing clarification on academic concepts.
Connecting with Otago’s academics, administrative staff and other students within the doctorate programme is effortless and the advice given is constantly professional and valuable. With this level of knowledge at your fingertips, it’s hard not to be inspired to be a better- informed educator.”
Hamish Gunson
Postgraduate Certificate in Rehabilitation
“My career to this point has involved private practice musculoskeletal physiotherapy. I felt in order to best meet the needs of a new patient population it would pay for me to further my education in the field of rehabilitation. Otago offered papers that were relevant to my needs and also offered them through distance learning, which removed the requirement to travel.
It’s great that I can complete all my study, readings, teleconferences and assignments from home! The Moodle platform, email, Otago’s library website and Zoom video conferences make online study very accessible and provide all the support you need. The tutors are easily contacted through email and are prompt and insightful with their answers to any questions. They really try to make the distance learning process simple.
The help websites and videos for things like using referencing software (Mendeley) and performing literature searches are well put together, and have been invaluable in my studies.”
Katie Keir
Studying for a Postgraduate Certificate in Science Communication
“I decided to study by distance learning because I’m a new mum wanting a career change, but I couldn’t move my family to Dunedin. This way, I can still study and not uproot our lives. I chose Otago because it offered a more practical, hands-on approach compared to other science communication courses I’d looked into.
“I LOVE distance learning! It’s great having flexibility and being able to work around family life and a busy toddler. I was worried I would feel disconnected and not part of it all, but that hasn’t been the case at all. The lecturer has really made the distance students feel like an important part of the class.
After my distance studies, I’d like to find work that is flexible and fits in around having a young family – some sort of freelance writing perhaps. I think science communication opens up lots of doors for me in this sense.”