Develop biomedical science expertise
Develop further skills and expertise in Biomedical Science with the Postgraduate Certificate in Biomedical Science (PGCertBmedSc).
Choose from a range of advanced courses in Biomedical Science. You can explore courses in genetics and molecular biology, cell biology, physiology and pharmacology, drug discovery and development, and clinical research.
You can also use the PGCertBmedSc to develop skills in laboratory work, data analysis, and scientific communication.
Who can study for this qualification
The PGCertBmedSc suits you if you want to:
- take some postgraduate courses to specialise in a subject area relevant to your past study
- build on your skills and knowledge to work in the industry
- prepare for further postgraduate study in Biomedical Science.
You may be able to study for the PGCertBmedSc if you studied something equivalent to the Bachelor of Biomedical Science, or if you have extensive practical, professional, or scholarly experience.
Study towards a Master’s in stages
The PGCertBmedSc is part of a tiered family of qualifications. It can count towards the first year of the Master’s. You can continue to the thesis part of the Master of Biomedical Science, as long as you have a supervisor and a project.
Part-time study options
You can study for the PGCertBmedSc part time over two trimesters maximum—for example, by studying 20 hours of work a week.
Make sure you take your study hours into account if you are working.
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 PGCertBmedSc shall have:
(i) completed a BBmedSc degree or, at the discretion of the Associate Dean (Students), an equivalent degree; and
(ii) been accepted by the relevant 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 extensive practical, professional, or scholarly experience of an appropriate kind.
Qualification requirements
Excerpt from the regulations for the PGCertBMedSc
2. Except as provided in section 5, the programme of study for the PGCertBmedSc shall consist of 60 points from Physiology and Pharmacology (BIOL 432), BMSC 401–479, CLNR 401–414, DRGD 401–405.
3. (a) A candidate for the PGCertBmedSc shall normally be enrolled for at least one trimester and shall complete the requirements of the postgraduate certificate within two years of first enrolling in it.
(b) The associate dean may extend the maximum period in special cases.
4. A candidate who has been awarded the PGCertBmedSc shall abandon that qualification upon being awarded the PGDipBmedSc.
Future careers
Biomedical Science graduates often work in healthcare laboratories, hospitals, research institutes, clinical settings, or firms that sell medical equipment. You might also work in government departments such as Health New Zealand—Te Whatu Ora, in drug testing programmes, or in the pharmaceutical industry.
You may need further study to work in biomedical science if the PGCertBMedSc is your first Biomedical Science qualification.
Fields you could work in
With further study, you’ll have the knowledge base to enter a variety of fields, including:
- human genetics research
- genetic counselling or management
- human fertility and ageing
- clinical biochemistry
- immunology
- molecular pathology
- the development of new pharmaceuticals.
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.
-
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.
Degree 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.
If you’re already studying with us, talk to Tītoko—Student Success.
Why Wellington
Wellington has the highest concentration of scientists and science organisations in Aotearoa New Zealand. Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington is New Zealand’s top-ranked university for intensity of high-quality research.
Read about our research rankings
Our Faculty of Science is one of New Zealand’s top research institutions, with our own research centres and strong links to many other organisations and universities.
Student profiles
Find out what postgraduate study is like—read what our current and past students have to say about their experiences.
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.