Discover how medicines are developed, how they work in the body, and how new therapies are advancing modern healthcare.
Why study postgraduate Pharmacology and Toxicology?
Pharmacology and Toxicology examines how drugs act on the body and how the body responds to them. It is central to modern biomedical science and underpins the development of treatments for conditions such as cancer, heart disease, neurological disorders and diabetes.
At Otago you learn to connect molecular mechanisms with therapeutic outcomes, exploring how drugs are absorbed, how they interact with their targets, how they are eliminated, and why they produce both benefits and side effects. Postgraduate Pharmacology and Toxicology suits students who want to ask meaningful questions about how treatments are designed, how they work, and how they can be improved, within a research-active community focused on addressing real medical challenges and preparing graduates for roles in research, drug discovery, and applied health sciences.
Career opportunities
A postgraduate qualification in Pharmacology and Toxicology prepares you for work across research, health, industry and regulation.
Career pathways include:
- Research in biomedical or pharmaceutical science
- Clinical trials support roles
- Laboratory technician or analyst
- Pharmaceutical development and regulatory affairs
- Science communication or education roles
What it’s like to study at this level
Blend scientific theory with practical investigation with advanced coursework, interactive seminars and hands-on laboratory work that builds your understanding of drug action at molecular, cellular and whole-body levels.
You’ll work closely with staff who are active in drug development, toxicology and therapeutic research. As you progress, you develop confidence in experimental design, data interpretation and scientific communication. Real-world case studies and current research help you connect your learning with clinical and global health needs.
This is for you if ...
You have a relevant undergraduate degree in a life science such as biochemistry, physiology, microbiology or pharmacology. Curiosity about medicine, strong analytical thinking and an interest in linking chemistry and biology will help you thrive.
Are you just starting uni?
Learn about studying Pharmacology as an undergraduate at Otago.
Grow your capability and contribute to new discoveries in Pharmacology and Toxicology
Study in one of New Zealand’s leading biomedical research environments, with staff who contribute to national and international work in drug action, toxicology and therapeutic innovation. You’ll be part of a community committed to improving human health.
Learn in modern laboratories, supported by a research culture that values curiosity, collaboration and scientific rigour. Whether you plan to continue in research, move into industry or pursue further professional training, Otago gives you the foundation to make a meaningful contribution to the future of medicine.
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.
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.
PHAL papers
| Paper Code | Year | Title | Points | Teaching period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHAL231 | 2026, 2027 | Drugs and Society | 18 points | Not offered in 2026, Not offered in 2027 |
| PHAL241 | 2026, 2027 | Pharmacology: Drugs to Medicine | 18 points | Semester 1 |
| PHAL307 | 2026, 2027 | Current Topic | 18 points | Full Year |
| PHAL311 | 2026, 2027 | Pharmacology: Molecular Targets of Drugs | 18 points | Semester 1 |
| PHAL312 | 2026, 2027 | Pharmacology: Drugs and the Brain | 18 points | Semester 2 |
| PHAL313 | 2026, 2027 | Pharmacology: Medicines and Diseases | 18 points | Semester 2 |
| PHAL421 | 2026, 2027 | General Pharmacology and Toxicology | 20 points | Semester 1 |
| PHAL423 | 2026, 2027 | Neuropharmacology | 20 points | Semester 1 |
| PHAL428 | 2026, 2027 | Current Research Literature in Toxicology | 20 points | Not offered in 2026, Not offered in 2027 |
| PHAL430 | 2026, 2027 | Advanced Topic in Pharmacology and Toxicology | 20 points | Semester 1, Semester 2 |
| PHAL431 | 2026, 2027 | Special Project | 20 points | Semester 1, Semester 2 |
| PHAL480 | 2026, 2027 | Research Project | 40 points | Full Year, 1st Non standard period (13 July 2026 - 18 June 2027), 1st Non standard period (12 July 2027 - 21 June 2028) |
| PHAL490 | 2026, 2027 | Dissertation | 60 points | Full Year, 1st Non standard period (13 July 2026 - 18 June 2027) |
| PHAL495 | 2026, 2027 | Master's Thesis Preparation | 40 points | Full Year, 1st Non standard period (13 July 2026 - 18 June 2027), 1st Non standard period (1 January 2027 - 1 January 2027) |
Contacts
School of Pharmacy and Pharmacology
Faculty of Health Professional Programmes
Email pharmacology@otago.ac.nz
School of Pharmacy and Pharmacology website
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Regulations on this page are taken from the 2026 Calendar and supplementary material.
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