Postgraduate Study in Microbiology
What can’t be seen matters
Microbes are essential for maintaining life on Earth. They comprise more than 50 per cent of the life forms on our planet, yet only around 1 per cent have been identified and studied. Infectious microorganisms, including bacteria and viruses, can attack our bodies and we rely on our immune system to protect us. Thus the relationship between microbes and immune cells is critical for our survival.
The University of Otago is the only institution in New Zealand offering bachelor’s degrees in both Microbiology AND Infection and Immunity. The courses provide insights into the unseen world of microbes and the immune system, and an understanding of the practical applications arising from their study.
Why study Microbiology?
Microorganisms are everywhere – in our bodies, our food, the air, soil, and water. Because they're everywhere, they're involved in almost every aspect of our lives.
They are used in producing foods such as cheese, wine, and beer, as well as many pharmaceutical, chemical and agricultural products. They are important for soil fertility and the decomposition of materials but can cause major diseases in humans, animals and plants.
The harmful effects of some microorganisms link microbiology with immunology. Immunologists investigate how we can protect humans and animals from infectious diseases by using vaccines, and the role of the immune system in non-infectious diseases such as cancer.
Are you just starting uni?
Learn about studying Microbiology 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 Science with Honours (BSc(Hons))
A four-year degree focusing on advanced study and culminating in a research project in the final year
Master of Science (MSc)
A two-year degree with a wide range of subject options, the MSc may be taken by a combination of coursework and thesis, or by thesis only
Postgraduate Diploma in Science (PGDipSci)
A one-year programme which builds on an undergraduate science degree, encompassing coursework and a chosen research topic
Postgraduate Certificate in Applied Science (PGCertAppSc)
A coursework programme, typically consisting of three papers, that can be completed with full-time (one-semester) or part-time (full-year) study
Postgraduate Diploma in Applied Science (PGDipAppSc)
A two-semester programme, building on an Applied Science degree, that can be completed in two blocks (certificate, then diploma) or in one continuous run
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.
Programme details
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Papers
View a list of all related papers below.
Contacts
Department of Microbiology and Immunology
School of Biomedical Sciences
Email microbiology@otago.ac.nz
Website otago.ac.nz/microbiology
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Regulations on this page are taken from the 2025 Calendar and supplementary material.
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