Become an expert in your area
Gain advanced skills in biomedical research. Work independently, evaluate research, and interpret and communicate your findings.
We give you options. Choose the Master’s by thesis to carry out and present in-depth supervised research over two trimesters. Or choose the Master’s by coursework and thesis to combine independent research with extra coursework over four trimesters.
Depending on your previous study and experience, you may need to study a few courses before you start your thesis.
How you’ll study
You could study the Master of Biomedical Science one of two ways.
Master of Biomedical Science by thesis and coursework
If you have a Bachelor of Biomedical Science or similar degree, you can apply for the 240-point, two-year Master of Biomedical Science by coursework and thesis. It includes both coursework and a full Master's project and thesis.
Master of Biomedical Science by thesis
If you’ve already completed the Bachelor of Biomedical Science (Honours), you can apply to go directly into the 120-point, one-year Master of Biomedical Science by thesis. This programme is the same as Part 2 of the Master's by thesis and coursework.
You need to arrange a supervisor before you enrol. Programme directors can give you helpful information.
Part-time study options
You can study for MSc part-time—with a workload of 20 to 23 hours of work a week.
You can estimate your workload by adding up the number of points you'll be doing. One point is roughly equal to 10 to 12 hours work.
Other Biomedical Master’s degrees
You could also study for a specialist 1-year Master’s by coursework in Drug Discovery and Development (MDDD).
You’ll take some core courses and choose from a range of elective courses so you can tailor your programme to your interests and career goals.
Qualification support and advice
We can help you match your interests and career goals with the right course of study.
If you’re a new student, talk to a Future Student Adviser through our enquiry form.
If you’re already studying with us, talk to Tītoko—Student Success.
For the research portion of your study, you’ll need a supervisor to help guide your research. Your programme coordinator will work with you to find the right person.
Entry requirements
Entry requirements for domestic students
- Requirements for students who completed university in:
If you live in New Zealand and are a citizen or permanent resident of New Zealand or Australia, you're considered a domestic student.
Some citizens of the Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau may automatically hold New Zealand citizenship.
Diplomatic residents living in New Zealand are also regarded as domestic students.
To be accepted into this qualification, you need:
1. (a) Before enrolment, a candidate for the MBmedSc degree shall have:
(i) completed a degree or relevant graduate or postgraduate diploma of this university or, at the discretion of the Associate Dean, (Students), another university;
(ii) met the Part 2 requirements as set out in section 2 of the BBmedSc regulations, or been granted exemption from those prerequisites by the Head of the School of Biological Sciences; and
(iii) been accepted by the head of school as capable of proceeding with the proposed course of study.
(b) Requirement (a)(i) may be waived by the associate dean for a candidate who has had extensive practical, professional, or scholarly experience of an appropriate kind.
Qualification requirements
Excerpt from the regulations for the MBmedSc
2. (a) Except as provided in (b) or in section 4, the course of study for the MBmedSc shall consist of:
Part 1: (i) BMSC 580
(ii) 30 points from BMSC 401–479, CLNR 401-414, DRGD 401-405
(iii) 60 further points from BIOL 430–435, BMSC 401–449, CLNR 401–414, DRGD 401–405.
Part 2: BMSC 591 or 592.
Each part shall contribute at least 40 percent of the total marks.
(b) A candidate admitted with a BBmedSc(Hons) degree may be admitted directly to Part 2 and then need not offer Part 1.
(c) A candidate may proceed to Part 2 only with the permission of the relevant head of school.
3. (a) A full-time candidate whose course of study includes both parts shall normally be enrolled for at least four trimesters (extended pro rata up to eight trimesters for students who are not full time) and shall complete the degree within two and a half years of first enrolling in it (extended pro rata up to five years for students who are not full time). The associate dean may extend the maximum period in special cases.
(b) The minimum and maximum periods of enrolment for Part 2 are specified in the Master’s Thesis Regulations.
Future careers
Go on to a career in research, diagnostics or biotechnology.
Master’s study gives you research experience that could give you a competitive career edge.
You might work as a scientist or laboratory technician in a:
- hospital
- Crown Research Institute
- private research organisation
- pharmaceutical company.
You might work as a:
- genetic counsellor
- teacher
- science writer.
More career information
Find out more about careers in biomedical science.
The government careers website, Tahatū, offers more information about jobs, salaries, and current opportunities.
Scholarships
You may be able to get a scholarship to help fund your studies.
We have postgraduate and doctoral scholarships available, as well as specialised scholarships for different groups and subject areas. If nothing fits right now, something may suit you later.
We encourage you to apply. It's a straightforward process, and it could make a real difference.
Scholarships for Biomedical Science
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The fund, which was established at the time of the renovation of the C3 lecture theatre, is to assist a second-year student from any faculty in their studies at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington
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Applicants must be female, New Zealand or Canadian citizens studying full time at 300 level BSc (Hons) and Master's by Coursework in any area of Science, including Architecture and Design at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.
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Applicants must be enrolled or intending to enrol in a Master's of PhD programme in the Faculty of Science and Engineering, undertaking research in any aspect of biodiversity and restoration ecology, including the use of novel technologies. Preference will be given to applicants from the School of Biological Sciences and the School of Geography, Environment and Earth Sciences.
Scholarships for international students
We’re currently offering a NZ$10,000 VUW Postgraduate International Scholarship to all eligible international students enrolling in a Master’s degree or Postgraduate Diploma programme.
Your scholarship will be processed automatically when your programme application is accepted, and the amount will be deducted from your tuition fees.
Other scholarships
We also have postgraduate and doctoral scholarships available, as well as specialised scholarships for different groups and subject areas. If nothing fits right now, something may suit you later.
We encourage you to apply. It’s a straightforward process, and it could make a real difference.
Scholarships for Biomedical Science
-
Applicants must be female, New Zealand or Canadian citizens studying full time at 300 level BSc (Hons) and Master's by Coursework in any area of Science, including Architecture and Design at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.
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Applicants must be enrolled or intending to enrol in a Master's of PhD programme in the Faculty of Science and Engineering, undertaking research in any aspect of biodiversity and restoration ecology, including the use of novel technologies. Preference will be given to applicants from the School of Biological Sciences and the School of Geography, Environment and Earth Sciences.
Join our postgraduate community
The Postgraduate Students’ Association provides a voice for you on campus and information on studying at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.
Postgraduate Students’ Association
MAI ki Pōneke
MAI ki Pōneke are part of an international network of Māori and Indigenous postgraduate students. They provide advice, support, and information to Indigenous postgraduate students of all levels, as well as those thinking about enrolling.
Research an area that interests you
Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington is New Zealand’s top-ranked university for intensity of high-quality research.
Faculty of Science research rankings
As part of your Master’s study, you’ll conduct research under the supervision of our staff. You’ll learn from and work with highly qualified academic staff and professional researchers who undertake internationally recognised work.
Find out about the research in the School of Biological Science.
Local industry connections
Explore biology at a school ranked top in New Zealand for its research quality. Study in Wellington—the heart of Aotearoa New Zealand's science industry and community.
There are opportunities to engage in ground-breaking international research and discovery. You'll get the chance to take advantage of the University's close relationships with organisations.
Find out more about the School of Biological Sciences and its research connections.
Study for a PhD
If you do well in your Master’s degree, and have the skills and passion for advanced research, you'll be able to apply to do a PhD.
Begin your career as a scientist or academic and complete a major piece of original research with a PhD.
Academic staff research interests
Contact the School of Biological Sciences to find out more about our staff research expertise.
Get help to manage your finances
We can help you:
- budget your money
- manage your student loan or allowance
- work out your accommodation payment schedule.
If you’re facing financial difficulties, we can help you apply for the Hardship Fund.
You may be eligible for government or community support, too.
Apply for a New Zealand study visa
You’ll need to apply for a study visa if you plan to study with us as an international student.
You should apply for your visa after you’ve received your Offer of Place, and before you come to New Zealand.