Changes to BBiomedSc entry from 2026
From 2026, the BBiomedSc will no longer be a restricted-entry programme, and new students will not be required to enrol in the Biomedical Sciences First Year (BSFY).
New students beginning study in 2026 can apply for admission directly to the BBiomedSc in their first year.
New students beginning study in semester 2, 2025 still need to apply to the BSFY programme for 2025, but can enrol in the BBiomedSc from 2026.
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:
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Programme details
Regulations for the Degree of Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences (BBiomedSc)
(Current until the end of semester two, 2025)
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.
Regulations for the Degree of Bachelor of |
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University jargon
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