At Otago, postgraduate Pathology gives you the depth, focus, and scientific confidence to take your next step in biomedical discovery.
Why study postgraduate Pathology?
Pathology is the science of disease, and it sits at the heart of modern health care. It helps us understand how illness begins, how it changes the body, and how new diagnostics and treatments are developed.
At postgraduate level, Pathology moves you beyond learning what is already known and into exploring what is still being discovered. You’ll engage with major challenges in human health, from cancer and immune disorders to genetic and developmental disease, and gain the scientific depth needed to understand them at a cellular and molecular level.
Whether you’re aiming for research, biomedical innovation, or further study, Pathology gives you a strong platform for contributing to better health outcomes in a world that increasingly relies on skilled biomedical scientists.
Career opportunities
Postgraduate Pathology at Otago opens doors in both research and applied science. You’ll build advanced lab and analytical skills, boost your scientific confidence, and join networks that matter. Possible career opportunities include:
- Biomedical researcher in academic or clinical labs
- Laboratory specialist in genetics, immunology, or molecular diagnostics
- Clinical trials coordinator or translational scientist
- Health and medical science consultant
- PhD study and academic career
What it’s like to study at this level
Postgraduate Pathology at Otago is built around active investigation and close academic support. You’ll work alongside experienced supervisors on a substantial research project, learning how to design experiments, analyse results, and communicate scientific findings clearly.
Alongside your project, you’ll take advanced coursework that deepens your understanding of disease processes, while laboratory work, seminars, and journal clubs help you grow as an independent scientific thinker and researcher.
This is for you if ...
As a minimum, you will have been awarded the degree of Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences. Additional qualifications may be required depending on your chosen path.
Are you just starting uni?
Learn about studying Pathology as an undergraduate at Otago.
Exploring the science of disease
The Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine in Dunedin offers a focused, research-led environment for postgraduate study. You’ll have access to modern laboratory facilities and work with academic staff who are actively contributing to international research in areas such as cancer biology, drug resistance, and epigenetic regulation of disease.
Otago’s thesis-centred programmes provide the structure and mentoring needed for high-quality research, while regular presentations and academic events help you become part of a wider scientific network. Studying Pathology here connects you to a long tradition of biomedical discovery and prepares you for careers in research, health science, and industry.
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
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Engage in original research leading to a doctoral thesis, supported by comprehensive academic and social networks
Ready to apply?
Take your expertise to the next level with advanced study.
Contacts
Email pathology@otago.ac.nz
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