Explore how life at the molecular level shapes health, disease, and future therapies.
Why study postgraduate Molecular Basis of Health and Disease?
Health and disease are shaped by events happening far below what we can see.
At postgraduate level, Molecular Basis of Health and Disease is about moving from knowledge to understanding, and from understanding to impact. You explore how molecular and cellular processes drive health, illness, and recovery, and how this knowledge underpins modern medicine. This subject connects fundamental biology with real-world challenges, from chronic disease to emerging health threats.
You develop the ability to think critically about complex biological systems, analyse evidence, and ask meaningful research questions. Just as importantly, you learn how molecular insights translate into diagnostics, treatments, and prevention strategies. Studying this field at Otago places you in an environment where discovery, curiosity, and collaboration are part of everyday learning.
Career opportunities
A postgraduate qualification in Molecular Basis of Health and Disease opens pathways across research, healthcare, and industry. Graduates move into roles where advanced biological knowledge and analytical thinking are highly valued, including:
- Biomedical and clinical research
- Biotechnology and pharmaceutical development
- Health and medical laboratory science
- Science policy, regulation, or communication
- Further study towards doctoral or professional health qualifications
What it’s like to study at this level
You learn through a mix of advanced coursework, discussion, and research-led teaching that reflects real scientific practice. Classes encourage critical debate, problem solving, and independent thinking. You work closely with academic staff and other postgraduate students, often across disciplines, as you explore current research and emerging ideas. Practical and research experiences allow you to apply theory to real biological questions, helping you build confidence as a scientist and prepare for research or professional pathways beyond your degree.
This is for you if ...
A background in molecular biology, biochemistry, genetics, or related biomedical sciences is helpful, along with curiosity, critical thinking skills, and an interest in how science improves human health.
Are you just starting uni?
Learn about studying Molecular Basis of Health and Disease as an undergraduate at Otago.
Research-led learning in a world-class health sciences environment
You join a university with a long-standing reputation in health and biomedical sciences, supported by experienced researchers and modern facilities. Studying in Dunedin places you within a close-knit academic community where postgraduate students are known, supported, and encouraged to contribute. Our scale allows for meaningful connections with staff and peers, while our research culture helps you engage with ideas that matter locally and globally.
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 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
Ready to apply?
Take your expertise to the next level with advanced study.
Contacts
Email biomedsc@otago.ac.nz
Faculty of Biomedical Sciences (Dunedin campus)
Faculty of Medicine – Christchurch
Faculty of Medicine – Wellington
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World-class research
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