Postgraduate Study in Functional Human Biology
Functional Human Biology provides a broad, interdisciplinary approach to understanding the science of health and disease.
You will have the opportunity to pursue this fascinating topic at undergraduate (Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences), postgraduate (Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences with Honours), and research level (Master of Biomedical Sciences).
The BBiomedSc degree allows you to pursue a flexible programme of study that equips you with a comprehensive grounding in the principles and ideas that underpin current biomedical science.
Why study Functional Human Biology?
The key answer is because you are interested in, and motivated by, the science that will allow us to improve human health. Our Functional Human Biology students have a reputation for excellence and are sought-after by a wide range of employers both here in New Zealand and overseas.
Ultimately human health depends on the correct functioning of the cells, tissues and organ systems of the body. Understanding disease, in turn, rests upon knowledge of the pathological processes on these systems.
This major provides an overview of the functional mechanisms of the multiple systems in the human body and explores specific areas in depth with a research-informed focus.
Are you just starting uni?
Learn about studying Functional Human Biology as an undergraduate at Otago.
Choose a study option
Whether you are advancing your career with our specialised graduate qualifications or pursuing in-depth research and expertise through our postgraduate programmes, Otago is here to support your aspirations.
Postgraduate qualifications
Honours, Master’s, PhDs, and other advanced degrees for graduates. Just one additional year of study will earn you a valuable postgraduate degree. Or perhaps you want the depth of a full year of research-only time during a Master’s or to step up to a PhD.
Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences with Honours (BBiomedSc(Hons))
An eight-month (full time), restricted-entry, thesis-only postgraduate programme, providing an excellent foundation for a career in biomedical research
Master of Biomedical Sciences (MBiomedSc)
A one‑year thesis‑only degree that provides an excellent foundation for an academic or research career, and a stepping stone for entry into a PhD programme
Graduate Qualifications
Our graduate qualifications are crafted to transition students from foundational studies to advanced, specialised knowledge.
Ready to apply?
Take your expertise to the next level with advanced study.
Contacts
Email biomedsc@otago.ac.nz
Web otago.ac.nz/bms (School of Biomedical Sciences, Dunedin campus)
Web otago.ac.nz/christchurch (University of Otago, Christchurch)
Web otago.ac.nz/wellington (University of Otago, Wellington)
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Regulations on this page are taken from the 2025 Calendar and supplementary material.
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