Analyse life at a molecular level

Explore cell biology, genetics and chemical genetics, and study living organisms at the molecular level. Discover how cellular processes are regulated by molecules such as DNA, RNA, proteins, enzymes and other biomolecules. Get an introduction to physiology and pathology, and learn about human organs and organ systems.

Focus on research in areas like immunology, pathology and physiology. Investigate biological processes for industrial, medical, or environmental purposes.

If you’re interested in how cells function and the molecules they are made up of, and can see yourself leading the way in science innovation and enterprise, then Cell and Molecular Bioscience is the right choice for you.

Choose your study path

You can study Cell and Molecular Bioscience as a major or minor in the Bachelor of Science (BSc).

You can also add another study area by studying a double major or conjoint degree.

The BSc page explains your options and how you can structure your study. Our flexible study page defines double majors and conjoint degrees and has a list of subjects you can combine when you study.

Other degree options

If you are interested in biology and cell biology with a specific focus on human health and medicine, the Bachelor of Biomedical Science (BBmedSc) may suit you. 

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.

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Study options

Find out how you can study Cell and Molecular Bioscience at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.

Tohu Paetahi Pūtaiao

Bachelor of Science—BSc

UNDERGRADUATEBACHELOR'S DEGREE
Create a science degree that’s unique to you, your passions, and your career goals. Enjoy study both in and outside the classroom.
Duration
3 years
Location
Kelburn campus, Wellington
Level of study
Undergraduate
Points
360
Workload
Full or part-time
Type
Coursework · Daytime
2026 – Trimester 3
Apply by
12 Nov 2026
Start study
16 Nov 2026
2027 – Trimester 1
Apply by
14 Feb 2027
Start study
22 Feb 2027
2027 – Trimester 2
Apply by
15 Jun 2027
Start study
5 Jul 2027
2027 – Trimester 3
Apply by
10 Oct 2027
Start study
15 Nov 2027

Future careers

The BSc majoring in Cell and Molecular Bioscience is a starting point for various career paths, or more study, in fields like:

  • cell and molecular biological process relevant to the environment
  • conservation
  • fermentation
  • biological containment.

To work in certain careers you may need to study for further qualifications or gain work experience.

You may work in healthcare laboratories, hospitals, research institutes, clinical settings, or firms that sell medical equipment. You’ll most likely start as a lab technician or assistant.

You might work in government departments such as Health New Zealand—Te Whatu Ora, in drug testing programmes, or in the pharmaceutical industry.

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More career information

Find out more about careers in cell and molecular bioscience.

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 first-year and school-leaver 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 Science

  • Worth: $2,000 Closing: 31 October, 2026

    The Erasmus Scholarship is open to second year students at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington who want to major in Greek or Latin.

  • Worth: $4,000 (subject to funds available) Closing: 31 October, 2026

    The scholarship is open to full time students enrolled in Mathematics or Physics, who are entering their second or subsequent year or postgraduate study at Te Herenga Waka— Victoria University of Wellington.

  • Worth: $5,000 (subject to funds available) Closing: 31 October, 2026

    This scholarship is designed to support second year students studying History at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington by removing financial barriers to study.

Scholarships for international students

We are currently offering a NZ$15,000 VUW Undergraduate International Scholarship to all eligible international students enrolling in a Bachelor’s degree.

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 offer 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 Science

  • Worth: $2,000 Closing: 31 October, 2026

    The Erasmus Scholarship is open to second year students at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington who want to major in Greek or Latin.

  • Worth: $7,000 (subject to available funds) Closing: 30 November, 2026

    This scholarship was established in 1980 by the former Prime Minister of New Zealand, the Rt. Hon. Sir John Marshall, GBE, CH, BA, LLM, Hon. LLD, to encourage the study of Political Science at Te Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington. The Scholarship was extended to include International Relations.

  • Worth: Domestic tuition fees for one 200-level LSCI course Closing: 1 December, 2026

    This scholarship was established to encourage students to complete a major in Language Sciences at Te Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington, and continue to further study or careers in this field.

Postgraduate study

Take your knowledge of the mechanics of life to the next level—study postgraduate Cell and Molecular Bioscience.

You could add research to your bachelor’s study with Honours. Or you could specialise or upskill in a new area with graduate and postgraduate certificates and diplomas.

Continue on to a Master’s in an area of research that excites you. Or finish your study with a PhD and make a contribution to this area of science.

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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.

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Wellington Global Exchange

If you're a current student at Victoria University of Wellington, you can complete part of your degree overseas. Choose from our 140 partner universities worldwide.

Wellington Global Exchange
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Study Abroad and Exchange Programme

If you're an overseas student, you can spend a trimester or a year at Victoria University of Wellington. You'll earn credits at your home university while you study here. 

Study Abroad and Exchange

Discover your career pathway with Tahatū