History University of Otago

Overview

The History programme at the University of Otago provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the forces that have shaped our modern world. By examining political, cultural, and social transformations, students learn to think critically about the relationship between the past and the present day.

This course of study encourages learners to immerse themselves in fascinating accounts of human societies, ranging from ancient revolutions to contemporary global conflicts. The curriculum is designed to be highly flexible, allowing students to tailor their academic journey toward specific eras, themes, or geographical regions that align with their personal interests.

Academic life in this department is defined by a supportive environment where dedicated lecturers provide expert guidance and mentorship.

Why History at the University of Otago?

The University of Otago is consistently ranked among the world’s best institutions for this discipline, featuring teaching from internationally renowned researchers. The department is deeply committed to student success, offering a distinctive learning experience that blends theoretical study with practical application.

Dunedin serves as an ideal backdrop for historical inquiry due to its rich concentration of archives, libraries, and museums. Students benefit from unparalleled access to original research materials at the Hocken Collections and the Toitū Otago Settlers Museum, bringing their academic studies to life through direct contact with primary sources.

Distinctive teaching features include a structured internship programme that connects students with local organisations such as the Otago Daily Times and the Dunedin Public Art Gallery. These partnerships allow students to gain hands-on experience in journalism, archiving, and heritage management before they complete their degrees.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: NZD 53970 per year
• National fee: NZD 9427 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

• Global Twentieth Century
• New Zealand in the World from the 18th Century
• Medieval to Modern Europe
• Revolutions
• Pacific History
• Heretics, Witches, and Inquisitors
• Tyrants and Traitors: Britain and France, 1100-1800
• Modern Irish History Since 1798
• Empires and Globalisations
• Totalitarian Regimes: Europe 1922-1945
• Darwin versus God? Science and Society, 1789-1914
• Australia since 1788: Boundaries of Belonging
• Modern Italy
• Interpreting Māori Lives: Rebels, Radicals and Reformers
• Irish and Scottish Migrations in the 19th and 20th Centuries
• Patriotism: From Joan of Arc to Kamikaze
• Empires Strike Back: A Global History of Decolonization
• Origins of Modern Scotland
• Practising History
• Rethinking History

Careers with History

Graduates from this programme possess versatile skills in research and analysis that are highly valued by employers globally. Many alumni find successful careers in diverse fields such as journalism, public affairs, teaching, management, and finance, where critical thinking is essential.

Former students have secured prominent roles within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Te Papa Tongarewa, and Heritage New Zealand. Others have pursued opportunities at the Canterbury Museum, AgResearch, and various international government organisations and private sector firms.