Postgraduate Study in Pathology
Why study Pathology?
Understanding human disease is key to the development of effective treatments. Students who complete Pathology papers at the University of Otago will have an integrated knowledge of the biology of disease.
Our undergraduate Pathology papers at Otago provide a foundation for basic and translationally focused post-graduate research and graduate entry into professional programmes.
A single discipline Pathology minor will produce graduates who can blend biomedical science with clinical knowledge to respond to global health challenges.
Overview
Pathology is the study of human disease at the molecular, cellular and organ systems levels.
Studying Pathology will allow you to learn about diseases caused by genetic, infectious, immunological and environmental injury, including how diseases affect cells and organ systems, and how diseases can be detected and treated.
At Otago, the study of Pathology is included in health professional courses as well as the Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Biomedical Science programmes.
Postgraduate study in Pathology
There are currently various options open to students seeking to further their education in Pathology at 400-level and beyond.
Students who have completed any of the majors in the BBiomedSc programme can enrol in a BBiomedSc(Hons) in the Department of Pathology. The BBiomedSc(Hons) can be in any of the majors, including the Molecular Basis of Health and Disease. Some students who have completed a BSc in appropriate subjects may also be permitted to complete a BBiomedSc(Hons) .
Students who have completed a BSc in Genetics can complete a BSc(Hons) in Genetics that includes a research project based in the Department of Pathology.
Further postgraduate study includes options such as the Master of Biomedical Sciences, the Master of Science (subject to joint supervision with a department that offers the MSc ), or a PhD.
Find out more about postgraduate study in Pathology
Pathology research at Otago
Our staff undertake internationally-recognised Pathology research.
This research is focused on three thematic areas:
- Translational Cancer Research
- Epigenetics
- Developmental Biology
The types of medical and scientific problems that this research addresses include:
- Cancer cell biology
- Genomics and molecular markers for cancer
- Cancer drug resistance
- Cancer immunology
- Haematology
- Stem cell biology and cell fate determination
- Epigenetics of human disease
- Genetics of early development
Current research projects available in the Department of Pathology
Are you just starting uni?
Learn about studying Pathology 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
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Engage in original research leading to a doctoral thesis, supported by comprehensive academic and social networks
Ready to apply?
Take your expertise to the next level with advanced study.
Contacts
Email pathology@otago.ac.nz
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Regulations on this page are taken from the 2025 Calendar and supplementary material.
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