Overview
The Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences (BBiomedSc) degree provides students with a sound foundation in the scientific principles underpinning biomedical research and thus our current understanding of health and disease. A defining feature of this degree is its interdisciplinary nature with students able to select papers from multiple contributing Departments. The BBiomedSc is a springboard for advanced study and a diverse range of careers including research, health services, and professional programmes.
For more information about studying Biomedical Sciences at Otago, visit the Biomedical Sciences subject page:
Study Biomedical Sciences at Otago
Programme structure
The BBiomedSc is a three-year programme that starts with a first year course, the Biomedical Sciences First Year (BSFY), followed by the BBiomedSc (2nd Year and Above) programme. The BSFY consists of five compulsory papers plus two further papers. The BBiomedSc (2nd Year and Above) requires that students undertake one of the following majors:
- Drugs and Human Health
- Functional Human Biology
- Infection and Immunity
- Molecular Basis of Health and Disease
- Nutrition and Metabolism in Human Health
- Reproduction, Genetics and Development
Information for applicants
Applicants starting their University studies and interested in biomedical sciences should apply for the BSFY using the Apply Now button for the 'Biomedical Sciences First Year'.
Applicants who have passed the First Year papers (either through the BSFY, HSFY, BSc or through another institution) and want to undertake a Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences should apply for the 'BBiomedSc 2nd Year and Above' programme through their eVision portal or the Apply Now button for the 'Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences (2nd Year and Above)'.
Ready to apply?
If this is the qualification for you, get started with your application today.
Programme details
Regulations for the Degree of Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences (BBiomedSc)
Admission to the Programme
Except for students enrolling in a First Year course for the degree, admission to the programme shall be subject to the approval of the Director of the Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences programme (or nominee).
Structure of the Degree
- Every programme of study for the degree shall satisfy the requirements for at least one of the major subjects listed above.
- Candidates will not normally be permitted to enrol for any papers of a year until all papers of the preceding year have been passed.
Prerequisites, Corequisites and Restrictions
Every programme of study shall satisfy the requirements for prerequisites, corequisites, and restrictions set out in the Prescriptions (published in the Guide to Enrolment).
Duration of the Programme
The programme may be taken by full-time candidates in three years.
Cross Credits
A candidate who is enrolled for two degrees concurrently, or who has completed one degree and is proceeding with another, may cross credit 100-level and 200-level papers which are common to both degrees up to a maximum of 126 points where the other degree is a three year degree and up to a maximum of 180 points where the other degree is longer than a three year degree.
Variations
The Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Health Sciences) may in exceptional circumstances approve a course of study which does not comply with these regulations.
University jargon
Starting to research your study options and already feeling lost in the jargon? Here are some handy links for common terms you’re likely to come across.
- What’s a degree and how does it work?
- What’s a double degree?
- What’s a combined degree?
- Explore all terminology
Further study
We offer postgraduate opportunities tailored to your interests at Honours, Master's and PhD level.
More information
Contact our Schools' Liaison and International teams
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