University College is the largest college at the University of Otago and one of the largest colleges in Australasia
With students from over 175 different New Zealand secondary schools and many foreign countries we offer the cosmopolitan flavour of a large, vibrant student community in the heart of the Otago campus.
UniCol is a fully catered, quality tertiary accommodation provider. The majority of our 518 individual bedrooms are located in the two residential towers, with spectacular views across the campus and city, and the modern Annexe block. UniCol also maintains a flatting complex, UniCol Houses, directly across Clyde Street from the main block. The UniCol Houses has 14 five-bedroom units which offer a semi-flatting experience but are fully integrated into the life of the College.
University College boasts well-maintained facilities including a multitude of large and small common rooms, dining hall, computer rooms, seminar and study rooms and gymnasium.
We pride ourselves on providing a secure, supportive academic environment for our largely first year population with a focus on the personal touch as well as fostering the transition to independent living.
Our large and committed staff and team of residential assistants have a high profile. The three senior managers live on-site and are available around-the-clock to provide support and assistance.
Encouraging, facilitating and recognising academic excellence is a key thrust of UniCol life. Our tutorial programme is comprehensive and we recognise academic excellence through awards, scholarships and special functions.
A regular programme of social and recreational events allows students the opportunity to make strong friendships and enjoy the wider aspects of life at the University and in Dunedin.
“Unicol really made my first year of study everything I hoped it would be. I felt very comfortable and made so many new friends. Really good!!”
“UniCol is my second home. Great environment, people, everything – I loved it!”
History of University College
University College was commissioned by the University of Otago as the centenary project of the University. The fund was established by the generosity of the National Mortgage and Agency Company who were soon joined by Cadbury Fry Hudson Ltd, the Dunedin City Council and the Otago Savings Bank. Other money was raised by public subscription within the provinces of Otago and Southland, by donation from the graduates of the University and by government subsidy.
Designed by Mr E J McCoy of the Dunedin firm McCoy and Wixon, the College was formally opened by then Governor General Sir Arthur Porrit, on 9 August 1969, as part of the centenary celebrations, and was the second mixed residential hall at the University of Otago, Carrington Hall being the first. The towers were segregated, with males in the South Tower and females in the North Tower. It was not until the 1980s that the College was fully integrated.
The first Master of University College was Mr D F Symon, from 1969 until his retirement in 1985. At his retirement a trust was set up and the D F Symon Trust Award is presented annually to the top academic achievers at the College. The second Master was Dr P I C Rennie (1986-1992). He was followed by the third Master, Dr C P M Geary (1993 -1996). The fourth Master was Mr Ashley Day (1997 – 2007). The fifth Master Mr Chris Addington (2007-2018), Mr Andy Walne, the current Master, took up his position in 2018.
The College Coat of Arms, registered with the Lord Lyon King of Arms in Scotland, is identical to that of the University, except for the addition of a gold band around the outer edge. The College motto “Ut magis apti reddamur” comes from a Latin hymn set to music by then Professor of music, Peter Platt, for the opening of the College, and means “that we may be made more fit”.
The original Constitution of University College set out as its aims “The advancement of sound learning, the development of corporate life within the University, and the fostering of social responsibility among its members.” These aims are as relevant today as they were when the College was founded.
At the entrance to the College stands a copper sculpture by the distinguished NZ sculptor Mr John Middleditch . The Association of University Staff Wives gave it as the centenary gift to the University of Otago. Over the years the College has accumulated an impressive collection of art work which adorns the common spaces and main corridors.
In 2003 an additional 107 rooms were constructed on the Clyde Street side of the Towers, and opened in time for the 2004 intake. The Annexe, as it is currently known is linked via internal walkways to the Towers and the main administration block.
“I had a great time and met so many people. I loved the formal dinners and big get-together events.”
“I had a great experience making lots of friends and getting amongst Uni life. I enjoyed being in such a big hall.”