The web of life
Biomedical Sciences is an interdisciplinary degree that promotes understanding of the scientific basis of health and disease in humans, providing students with a sound and comprehensive grounding in the key principles underpinning modern biological and medical research and their potential applications in biotechnology.
Ultimately, human health depends on the normal functioning of the cells, tissues, and organ systems of the body. Understanding of disease in turn rests upon knowledge of the pathological processes on these systems.
The Functional Human Biology major provides an overview of the mechanisms of functioning of all systems of the human body and explores specific areas in depth, with a research-informed focus.
What does a degree in Biomedical Sciences involve?
Biomedical Sciences is the degree that links the papers relevant to an understanding of the scientific basis of health and disease in humans.
The degree aims to equip graduates with the skills required to meet the constantly changing boundaries of modern biosciences.
The following papers are required to major in Functional Human Biology:
| Year | Papers | Points |
|---|---|---|
| 1st year |
BIOC 192 Foundations of Biochemistry CELS 191 Cell and Molecular Biology CHEM 191 The Chemical Basis of Biology and Human Health HUBS 191 Human Body Systems 1 HUBS 192 Human Body Systems 2 36 further points |
18 18 18 18 18 36 |
| 2nd year |
PHSL 231 Neurophysiology or ANAT 241 Human Biology: cells to systems PHSL 232 Cardiovascular and Respiratory Physiology PHSL 233 Cellular, Gastrointestinal and Renal Physiology At least 54 points from ANAT 241, ANAT 242, BIOC 221, BIOC 223, HUNT 241, HUNT 243, MICR 221, MICR 223, PATH 201, PHAL 211, PHAL 212 PHSL 231 18 further points |
18
18 54
|
| 3rd year |
PHSL 343 Cellular and Epithelial Physiology PHSL 345 Physiological Aspects of Health and Disease At least 36 points from ANAT 331, ANAT 332, ANAT 335, BIOC 353, HUNT 342, MICR 332, MICR 334, PATH 301, PHAL 304, PHAL 305, PHSL 342 (or PHSL 341 or PHSL 344) 36 further points |
18 18 36
|
| Total | 360 |
Further information
The Biomedical Sciences page has more detailed information about studying Biomedical Sciences at Otago, including a link to apply online.
If you have any questions, please email biomedsc@otago.ac.nz
Postgraduate study in Biomedical Sciences
The Bachelor of Biomedical Science with Honours (BBiomedSc(Hons)) degree is a one-year postgraduate programme.
With its focus on hands-on biomedical research, it is widely regarded as an excellent choice for students wishing to continue on to PhD studies.
