University of Otago Distance Learning


This handbook provides information to support you throughout your distance study at Otago.

AskOtago is the 'go-to place' for all enquiries. Find answers instantly with AskOtago's searchable knowledgebase, or call, email or chat with them.

Check the 2021 Guide to the Library for information and services offered by the University Library.

Please feel free to contact the Distance Learning Office if you can't quite find what you're looking for. Our email address is distance.learning@otago.ac.nz and we aim to respond within 48 hours.

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This handbook is an in-house document produced by Distance Learning Office. It is intended for students enrolled in Distance Learning courses at the University of Otago.


  1. Welcome!

    Kia ora koutou, and welcome to the University of Otago! Read more…
  2. Administration

    Important information regarding changes of course, contact details, etc. Read more…
  3. Assessment at Otago

    There are a number of ways coursework can be submitted for assessment. Read more…
  4. Audio conferences

    Some distance papers offered by the University of Otago are taught via the University’s national Audioconference network. This system ... Read more…
  5. Academic Progress Policy

    Students attending the University of Otago are expected to perform at a satisfactory academic level. Read more…
  6. Audio-visual Resources

    Course material and other information may also be available in a range of multimedia formats (in addition to print). Read more…
  7. Communicating with the University

    Remember to update your contact details to ensure you get the latest communications from the University. Read more…
  8. Copyright

    What you need to know about copyright while you are studying at Otago. Read more…
  9. Doctoral Candidates

    How the University can support you... Read more…
  10. Examinations

    The Student Administration, Exams team advises students regarding examination-related matters and administers Special Consideration, ... Read more…
  11. Graduation

    Congratulations!! All the hard work has paid off and it's now time to graduate! You can attend in person or simply organise for a ... Read more…
  12. Information Technology

    The University's Information Technology Services (ITS) provides a range of services and advice to students. Read more…
  13. Key Dates 2021

    It's important to be aware of the key academic dates for the University of Otago. Read more…
  14. Laptop computer recommendations

    Wondering about making sure you have the right computing equipment for your study? Read more…
  15. Online learning environments

    Online learning environments provide access to course materials, discussion forums, workshops, quizzes, blogs and wikis, and online ... Read more…
  16. Ordering Textbooks

    Books prescribed for your course will usually be available from the University Book Shop (Otago) Ltd (UBS) Read more…
  17. Otago Campuses and Key Contacts

    The University of Otago is a national university with a physical presence throughout New Zealand. Distance learning programmes can ... Read more…
  18. Residential / Block Workshops

    Residential Schools/Block workshops may be part of the paper you have enrolled in. These events may be optional or mandatory, but are ... Read more…
  19. Student Learning Development Support

    The Higher Education Development Centre (HEDC) offers Student Learning Development (SLD) services to support distance students at all ... Read more…
  20. Student ID card and number

    Your ID card is your key to what Otago has to offer. It identifies you as a member of the University of Otago community, provides ... Read more…
  21. Support Services

    There are a wide range of services for students studying at a distance. Read more…
  22. The Library

    See the 2021 Distance Learning Guide to Library Services for information and services offered by the University Library. Read more…
  23. Web conferences - Zoom!

    The video link above shows you how easy it is to join a Zoom web conference for your classes! Read more…