Master of Biomedical Sciences (MBiomedSc)
Course details
About the course
Advance your career
The University of Otago has a strong international reputation for biomedical research.
The Master of Biomedical Sciences ( MBiomedSc ) is a one‑year thesis‑only postgraduate degree. It provides an excellent foundation for an academic or research career, and an internationally-recognised stepping stone for entry into a PhD programme.
Study in Christchurch, Dunedin or Wellington
The MBiomedSc is available at our Christchurch, Dunedin and Wellington campuses. It involves a period of supervised research in any area of biomedical science, which can include:
- Drugs and Human Health
- Functional Human Biology
- Infection and Immunity
- Molecular Basis of Health and Disease
- Nutrition and Metabolism in Human Health
- Reproduction, Genetics and Development
The University of Otago Postgraduate website has general information and resources for postgraduate research students:
Learn more about postgraduate research study at Otago
Entry requirements
Admission to the MBiomedSc programme requires you to have successfully completed an honours degree (such as the BBiomedSc(Hons)), or a postgraduate diploma in a biomedical subject which contained a research component of at least one‑qaurter of the programme. You will normally be expected to have achieved an average grade of at least B+, with a B+ or better in the research component.
The BBiomedSc(Hons), available at our Christchurch, Dunedin, and Wellington campuses, is an eight-month full‑time postgraduate programme which provides an excellent foundation for the MBiomedSc.
How to apply
Find a supervisor
Your first step towards the MBiomedSc at Otago is finding a supervisor and a research project. You can find resources for this on the University of Otago Postgraduate website:
Find a supervisor or a research opportunity
Apply through eVision
Once you have confirmation of your supervisor and research project, use the "Apply" button at the top of this page to apply through eVision, your personalised application portal. You will need to choose a qualification to select your preferred campus.
Scholarships
As a master's student, you have the opportunity to apply for a variety of financial scholarships:
About the provider
The University of Otago, New Zealand’s first university, was founded in 1869 and offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes with a strong emphasis on research and academic excellence. Ranked in the top 1% of universities globally and 2nd in New Zealand, it is also 214th worldwide according to QS rankings. Recognised as the top university in New Zealand for student academic performance by the Tertiary Education Commission, 96% of its graduates either enter the workforce or pursue further study shortly after graduation.
Located in Dunedin, a vibrant student city where students make up 20% of the population, the University benefits from a unique atmosphere. Dunedin, on the south-eastern coast of New Zealand’s South Island, is known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, featuring Victorian and Edwardian architecture, picturesque hills, and wildlife reserves.
The University’s campus is ranked the 5th most beautiful in the world by THE Student Voice, enhancing the educational experience. The Otago region offers diverse scenery and is close to popular destinations such as Queenstown. New Zealand is rated the 1st most beautiful country by Rough Guides 2024, is renowned for its natural beauty, Māori heritage, and multicultural society, providing a friendly, inclusive environment for students and residents.