Study Economics at Otago

Connor Kennedy:

Hey, I’m Connor, and I study Economics and Anatomy at Otago University.

I really chose Otago because the Economics programme is leading in the world. It also has a great student life, and the flexibility of the course is just incredible. I can do Anatomy and Economics at the same time, and both departments are really accommodating. So, if you want to study Economics, come to Otago University!

Rachael Grant:

I also chose to go to Otago because it was the furthest university from home. I had heard about the great student lifestyle here—there’s always something going on, whether it’s a rugby game or going to the beach with friends.

I picked Economics because ever since I did Economics in high school, I knew that was what I wanted to do. The lecturers here are amazing—they’re always willing to help you out with Economics or understanding content. There are also amazing opportunities. I’m a research assistant looking at Economics, so honestly, it’s just an awesome place to be.

Dr Dennis Wesselbaum:

What is Economics? Think about a jigsaw puzzle. Zoom into one part of the puzzle—it’s about monetary and fiscal policy over the business cycle. In another corner, it’s about how climate change affects migration. In yet another part, it’s about how we foster long-run economic growth.

What I love about Economics is the fact that it’s not a narrowly defined topic or concept. It’s a way of thinking, a way of addressing a problem and solving it. That can be done using data analysis, theoretical models, or even experiments.

Now zoom out and look at the entire picture—Economics is about how we can make people’s lives better and how we advance knowledge.

If you’re interested in a subject that offers a wide range of job opportunities—working for the government, private sector, or even international organisations like the UN—then Economics is for you. If you’re looking for a flexible study option, you can combine Economics with Law, Politics, or even Philosophy. And if you want a career that allows you to make an impact, then you should consider Economics.

In your first year at Otago, you’ll lay the groundwork for this. You’ll learn the basic concepts and tools, and you’ll learn how to handle data—the currency of the future. You’ll be evaluated through tests, exams, and both individual and group-based work.

Why then Otago? Yes, we are the leading business school in the country. Yes, we do have new facilities. But to me, what sets us apart is that we actively combine research and teaching. It’s not just about reading a book—it’s about learning, being inspired, and actively participating, maybe even at the economic frontier.

If that entire package sounds good to you, then we look forward to having you with us here at Otago!