Understand the human body
All matter around us is made up of molecules—including our bodies. Molecular Pathology is the study of disease at the detailed level of molecules in our bodies. It is widely used in the diagnosis of diseases, including cancer, infectious diseases, and inherited disorders.
Learn about the human body at the level of cells and organs. Discover how the brain coordinates and talks to every cell of the body through nerves and hormones to manage our wellbeing. Understand the physiological, cellular, and molecular basis of what goes wrong when disease strikes—and study how the immune system works to fight against bacterial, viral, and parasitic microorganisms.
If you’re interested in the relationship between health and disease at a molecular level then Molecular Pathology is right for you.
What you'll learn
Around a quarter of your study will be hands-on in the laboratory, backing theory with practice so you have the skills for work or further study.
During your study, you’ll explore many laboratory techniques. You’ll:
- look at the structure of organs and study how diseases change tissue and organs
- find out how biomedical research can detect disease, prevent its spread, and reduce and repair its damage
- develop technical skills using microscopes
- gain skills in protein biochemistry
- work with technologies like PCR tests
- separate protein and DNA using electrophoresis.
You'll also examine the make-up of tissues at the microscopic level, and grow and manipulate embryos of sea urchins and chickens.
Choose your study path
You can major in Molecular Pathology with the Bachelor of Biomedical Science (BBmedSc). You could also choose to study Molecular Pathology as a minor in the BBmedSc, or combine it with another subject as a double major or a conjoint degree.
It's common to study Human Genetics and Molecular Pathology in a double major as they complement each other.
The BBmedSc page has more information on your options. Or you can find out about the majors and minors you can choose from.
Selecting your major
In the first year of your BBmedSc, you'll get a grounding in general aspects of cell and animal biology, and the processes of disease. From your second year on, you can choose to major in Molecular Pathology.
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.
Study options
Find out how you can study Molecular Pathology at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.
Future careers
The BBmedSc majoring in Human Genetics is a starting point for career paths or further studies in biomedical fields.
After your graduate, you might work in a lab, hospital or clinical setting. You’ll most likely start as a lab technician or assistant.
You might work in areas such as:
- human genetics research
- genetic counselling or management
- human fertility and ageing.
You may need further study or work experience for some careers in these areas.
Chose an option below to find out about your career opportunities in more detail.
More career information
Find out more about careers in Molecular Pathology.
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 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 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 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.
Postgraduate study
Once you’ve completed your BBmedSc in Molecular Pathology, you can choose to expand your knowledge with a postgraduate qualification to develop your skills further. You could study for a Master’s or PhD.
The BBmedSc in Molecular Pathology covers the required Immunology courses to continue on to a Master of Clinical Immunology if you've also received a B average.
The BBmedSc is also an excellent starting point for medical school. You can apply to a medical school after completing your undergraduate study.
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.
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.
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.