Build advanced capability in a discipline that underpins breakthroughs across health, the environment, and industry.
Changes to science masters’ degrees from 2027
From 2027, our science masters' degrees are changing. The Master of Science will be renamed to the Master of Science (Thesis).
Why study postgraduate Chemistry?
As a postgraduate student, you dive deeper into questions that influence everything from sustainable materials to new medicines. Otago’s Department of Chemistry is known for high-quality research across analytical, physical, biological, and synthetic chemistry, and you learn alongside staff whose work contributes to advances in science and society. You can refine your laboratory and problem-solving skills and you gain experience in research design and data analysis. You also become part of a supportive community where ideas are shared, tested, and strengthened.
Career opportunities
A postgraduate qualification in Chemistry opens doors in research, industry, and government. You build advanced technical skills and the ability to communicate complex ideas, which are valued in many settings.
- Research scientist
- Laboratory manager
- Environmental monitoring specialist
- Pharmaceuticals or biotechnology professional
- Scientific policy or regulatory adviser
What it’s like to study at this level
At Otago you learn through a mix of coursework, guided research, and hands-on laboratory experience that builds your technical and analytical confidence.
Postgraduate study in Chemistry often involves advanced laboratory work, research projects, and collaboration with academics and research groups. The department supports you to think independently, discuss ideas openly, and work as part of a scientific team. During your study you could assist the discovery of new drugs, agrochemicals, catalysts and sources of energy.
This is for you if ...
Previous study in chemistry gives you a solid foundation for postgraduate learning. It helps to have a strong interest in chemical systems, problem solving, and laboratory work.
Are you just starting uni?
Learn about studying Chemistry as an undergraduate at Otago.
Deepen your expertise and drive discoveries
Postgraduate Chemistry at Otago places you at the centre of an active and collaborative research culture.
Learn in a department with recognised strengths in areas such as analytical chemistry, synthetic chemistry, environmental and geochemistry. The department hosts research units in partnership with the New Zealand Institute for Earth Science and the New Zealand Institute for Bioeconomy Science, fostering close links to national research priorities.
You also benefit from Otago’s strong scientific networks and from facilities that support high-quality experimental work and data analysis. Whether you plan to pursue a research career or apply your knowledge in industry, Otago gives you opportunities to grow, to specialise, and to contribute to meaningful scientific progress.
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, masters’, 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
Postgraduate Certificate in Science (PGCertSci)
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 Science (PGDipSci)
A one-year programme which builds on an undergraduate science degree, encompassing coursework and a chosen research topic
Master of Science (Thesis) (MSc(Thesis))
A two-year degree with a wide range of subject options. The MSc(Thesis) may be taken by a combination of coursework and thesis, or by thesis only.
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Engage in original research leading to a doctoral thesis, supported by comprehensive academic and social networks
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
Compare programmes for this subject.
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Papers
View a list of all related papers below.
CHEM papers
| Paper Code | Year | Title | Points | Teaching period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CHEM111 | 2026 | Chemistry: Molecular Architecture | 18 points | Semester 2 |
| CHEM150 | 2026 | Concepts in Chemistry | 18 points | Summer School |
| CHEM191 | 2026 | The Chemical Basis of Biology and Human Health | 18 points | Summer School, Semester 1, Semester 2 |
| CHEM201 | 2026 | Physical Chemistry 1 | 18 points | Semester 2 |
| CHEM202 | 2026 | Organic Chemistry 1 | 18 points | Semester 1 |
| CHEM203 | 2026 | Main Group and Coordination Chemistry | 18 points | Semester 2 |
| CHEM205 | 2026 | Biological and Medicinal Chemistry 1 | 18 points | Semester 2 |
| CHEM206 | 2026 | Analytical Chemistry 1 | 18 points | Semester 1 |
| CHEM301 | 2026 | Physical Chemistry 2 | 18 points | Semester 1 |
| CHEM302 | 2026 | Organic Chemistry 2 | 18 points | Semester 2 |
| CHEM303 | 2026 | Inorganic and Organometallic Chemistry | 18 points | Semester 1 |
| CHEM305 | 2026 | Biological and Medicinal Chemistry 2 | 18 points | Semester 1 |
| CHEM306 | 2026 | Analytical Chemistry 2 | 18 points | Semester 2 |
| CHEM371 | 2026 | Special Topic | 18 points | Not offered in 2026 |
| CHEM390 | 2026 | Introduction to Independent Research and Methods | 18 points | Full Year |
| CHEM460 | 2026 | Advanced Topics in Chemistry and Practice | 20 points | Full Year, 1st Non standard period (14 July 2026 - 30 May 2027) |
| CHEM461 | 2026 | Advanced Topics in Physical and Analytical Chemistry | 20 points | Full Year, 1st Non standard period (13 July 2026 - 16 June 2027) |
| CHEM462 | 2026 | Advanced Topics in Organic and Biological Chemistry | 20 points | Full Year, 1st Non standard period (13 July 2026 - 16 June 2027) |
| CHEM463 | 2026 | Advanced Topics in Inorganic and Structural Chemistry | 20 points | Full Year, 1st Non standard period (13 July 2026 - 16 June 2027) |
| CHEM464 | 2026 | Advanced Research Methods in Chemistry | 20 points | Full Year, 1st Non standard period (13 July 2026 - 16 June 2027) |
| CHEM480 | 2026 | Research Project | 40 points | Full Year, 1st Non standard period (13 July 2026 - 16 June 2027) |
| CHEM490 | 2026 | Dissertation | 60 points | Full Year, 1st Non standard period (13 July 2026 - 16 June 2027) |
| CHEM495 | 2026 | Master's Thesis Preparation | 40 points | Full Year, 1st Non standard period (13 July 2026 - 16 June 2027) |
Contacts
Department of Chemistry
Email chemistry@otago.ac.nz
Web otago.ac.nz/chemistry
This information must be read subject to the statement on our Copyright & Disclaimer page.
Regulations on this page are taken from the 2026 Calendar and supplementary material.
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