Master of Science (MSc) in Biochemistry
Dunedin, New Zealand
DURATION
LANGUAGES
English
PACE
Full time
APPLICATION DEADLINE
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EARLIEST START DATE
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TUITION FEES
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STUDY FORMAT
On-Campus
Key Summary
Introduction
Master of Science (MSc) in Biochemistry
The Master of Science (MSc) is a two-year degree which encompasses both coursework and research. The first year involves mainly coursework and preliminary research preparation. Students will have the opportunity to contribute to existing fields of research, or to begin to develop new areas.
Biochemistry at Otago
Biochemistry is a rapidly-developing molecular science that studies living processes by considering an organismโs biological molecules: their functions, their interactions (both amongst themselves and with molecules in the environment), and how they can be affected by the environment itself.
Biochemistry is at the heart of cutting-edge developments in molecular medicine and the biotechnology industry. Molecular medicine is poised to revolutionise human health. Better methods for diagnosis, drug design, and therapeutic treatment at the molecular level will improve health outcomes for society.
Biotechnology will bring us more and better foods, new sources of energy, and new materials for engineering.
Why study Biochemistry?
Biochemistry occupies a central place in the life sciences. It is fundamental to our understanding of the structure, function, and development of all life. It doesnโt matter which area of biology you are interested in, Biochemistry will enhance your understanding of life.
A Biochemistry degree from Otago is an internationally-recognised qualification in one of the key life sciences. You will learn practical, analytical, and critical thinking skills that are highly valued in New Zealandโs knowledge-based economy.
Admissions
Scholarships and Funding
Several scholarship options are available. Please check the university website for more information.
Curriculum
- The degree may be awarded in any of the subjects listed above. With the approval of the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Sciences) the degree may be awarded in a subject not listed above.
- The program of study shall be as prescribed for the subject concerned.
- A candidate whose qualification for entry to the program is the degree of Bachelor of Science with Honours or the Postgraduate Diploma in Science or equivalent may achieve the degree after a minimum of one year of further study, normally by completing a thesis or equivalent as prescribed in the MSc Schedule.
- A candidate may be exempted from some of the prescribed papers on the basis of previous study.
- A candidate shall, before commencing the investigation to be described in a thesis, secure the approval of the Head of the Department concerned for the topic, the supervisor(s), and the proposed course of the investigation.
- A candidate may not present a thesis which has previously been accepted for another degree.
- A candidate taking the degree by papers and thesis must pass both the papers and the thesis components.
- For the thesis, the research should be of a kind that a diligent and competent student should complete within one year of full-time study.
Subject areas
View the list of subjects offered for the Master of Science (MSc) and the Master of Applied Science (MAppSc).
- Anatomy
- Biochemistry
- Bioengineering
- Botany
- Chemistry
- Cognitive Science
- Computational Modelling (no new enrolments are currently being accepted)
- Computer Science
- Consumer Food Science
- Ecology
- Economics
- Electronics (no new enrolments)
- Energy Science and Technology
- Environmental Management
- Environmental Science
- Food Science
- Genetics
- Geographic Information Systems
- Geography
- Geology
- Geophysics
- Human Nutrition
- Immunology
- Information Science
- Marine Science
- Mathematics
- Microbiology
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
- Physics
- Physiology
- Plant Biotechnology
- Psychology
- Sport, Exercise and Health
- Statistics
- Surveying
- Toxicology
- Wildlife Management
- Zoology
Program Outcome
Level of Award of the Degree
The degree may be awarded with distinction or with credit.
Program Tuition Fee
Career Opportunities
Biochemists can choose from a diverse array of job opportunities, and Otago biochemistry graduates can be found all over the world.
Careers in research, product development, forensics, public health, bioinformatics, agribusiness, patent law, science policy, publishing, teaching and science communication, commerce, and marketing are all available to biochemists.
The New Zealand biotechnology industry has opportunities for biochemists in livestock improvement, the development of food crops, winemaking, the protection of native flora and fauna, pharmaceuticals, and industrial and household products.
With an Otago degree in Biochemistry, you can pursue your passion in any area of biology, anywhere in the world
Program delivery
Application details
Applicants must apply online. They should also attach all the necessary supporting documents which includes scanned copies of their previous official academic transcripts (awards gained, marks, grades) with their application, and provide proof of their identity: this is usually achieved by providing a certified copy of the personal details page of their passport or a birth certificate (in English). Applicants must also submit detailed research proposal that shows they are familiar with current literature surrounding their topic; an up-to date curriculum vitae; and name of the academic staff member with whom they have been in contact; and with an approximate start date. They may also be required to submit an Educational Credential Evaluators report (ECE). As soon as applicants have completed their online application, their proof of identity document must be posted to International Office, University of Otago, PO Box 56, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand. International student applications for semester 1/summer school study close: Oct-31.