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Study Molecular Basis of Health and Disease at Otago

Molecular Basis of Health and Disease 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 Molecular Basis of Health and Disease?

The key answer is because you are interested in, and motivated by, the science that will allow us to improve human health. Our Molecular Basis of Health and Disease students have a reputation for excellence and are sought-after by a wide range of employers both here in New Zealand and overseas.

This major explores the molecular mechanisms underpinning cellular communication as they relate to human health and disease.

Some of the topics covered include pathways of cell growth, cell survival and death, protein interactions in cell signalling pathways, dysregulation of metabolism, and the expression of disease phenotypes.

Career opportunities

Your working life might begin with an innovative biotechnology company or with a more established company in the pharmaceutical, biomedical, or agricultural sectors.

Alternatively, you might be employed by a research institute, in a university, government agency or local authority and use the scientific skills you have learned during your studies to provide policy, technical, or diagnostic advice.

A significant number of our BBiomedSc graduates are also successful in obtaining PhD positions or gaining postgraduate entry into professional health programmes such as Dentistry, Medicine, and Pharmacy.

Is the Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences (BBiomedSc) degree different from a Bachelor of Science (BSc)?

Yes.

The BBiomedSc allows you to retain an interdisciplinary diversity across the biomedical subjects throughout your three years of study.

In the final year of a BSc, most students are required to take four 300-level papers in one discipline. In contrast, final-year BBiomedSc students select papers from more than one biomedical discipline to complete their degree.

Throughout your university studies, advice will be available to help you structure your programme of study.

How do I structure my BBiomedSc degree?

Most students enter the BBiomedSc programme having successfully completed Health Sciences First Year (HSFY), however it is also possible to complete the first year enrolled in Biomedical Sciences First Year (BSFY) or a Bachelor of Science (BSc).

The interdisciplinary nature of Biomedical Sciences is the key feature of our degree, and we aim to ensure that you obtain a coherent programme of study by selecting one of our specific majors.

Postgraduate study in Christchurch, Dunedin, or Wellington

After completing a BBiomedSc majoring in Molecular Basis of Health and Disease (or equivalent degree), you can choose to pursue research-focused postgraduate study.

The Bachelor of Biomedical Science with Honours (BBiomedSc(Hons)) is an eight-month postgraduate degree. With its focus on hands-on biomedical research, it is widely regarded as an excellent choice for students wishing to continue on to master's or PhD study.

The Master of Biomedical Sciences (MBiomedSc) is a one year thesis-only postgraduate degree for students who have completed the BBiomedSc(Hons) or similar postgraduate programme. It provides excellent hands-on training as preparation either for work in biomedical research or for students wishing to continue on to PhD studies.

Both the BBiomedSc(Hons) and the MBiomedSc degrees can be undertaken at the Christchurch, Dunedin, or Wellington campuses.

Choose a study option

Whether you're embarking on your academic journey with our comprehensive undergraduate programmes or aiming to reach new heights through our advanced postgraduate offerings, Otago is here to support your aspirations.

Undergraduate qualifications

For new and current students studying towards a Bachelor's or other first degree. Explore undergraduate qualifications at Otago, designed to build a strong foundation in your chosen field, preparing you for a successful career or further study.

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Further study opportunities

Whether you are looking to bridge your undergraduate studies to advanced knowledge or aiming to specialise in a specific field, Otago offers a range of graduate and postgraduate options to suit your aspirations.

Programme details

Compare programmes for this subject as a major and minor (where available).

More information

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Regulations on this page are taken from the 2025 Calendar and supplementary material.

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