Master of Medical Science (MMedSc)

Applicants for the degree of Master of Medical Science (MMedSc) must hold a Bachelor of Medical Science with Honours (BMedSc(Hons) or Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MB ChB) or an alternate qualification acceptable to the Otago Medical School Academic Board, normally another medical degree (e.g. MBBS) and be eligible for University study in New Zealand. This may mean holding appropriate visa status with the New Zealand Immigration Service – see the International Office page for further information.

The degree involves a year of full-time research in any field of medical science, often a clinical discipline, at Master's level. A thesis is submitted. This in-depth study by the medical graduate is often the first step towards a higher degree; e.g. a PhD and a research/academic career.

Information for new applicants

The MMedSc degree is a one-year full-time (or part-time equivalent) research degree involving a supervised investigation in a branch of medical science. A candidate shall normally follow a programme of study for the equivalent of not less than one year of full-time study and not more than two years of full-time study. Exceptions shall be permitted only with the approval of the Pro-Vice Chancellor (Health Sciences).

Applicants should check their eligibility for admission with the Manager of the Otago Medical School. If eligible, applicants should then approach a department of the Otago Medical School (i.e. from the University of Otago Wellington, the University of Otago Christchurch, the Dunedin School of Medicine or the School of Biomedical Sciences) in order to discuss their proposed topic and to secure supervisors and a supporting department. If a department can provide the necessary support and supervision for the candidate to carry out his/her research the candidate may proceed to the online application process.

With the application, brief outlines of the proposed area of study and project approach are required:

• Background: This should provide a very brief description of the purpose of the study.
• Proposed Methods: Brief detail of the methodological approaches should be provided. This should include patient recruitment where relevant, sample collection, types of analyses to be performed etc.
• Analysis of Results: A brief description of the proposed methods for analysing/summarising the data acquired as a result of the study.
• Potential Outcomes of the Study and Future Relevance: This section should provide a brief description of possible outcomes of the study, and the potential scientific and health implications for the future.