If you have a mind for science and you’re keen to keep your options open, then the BSc is the degree for you. With many undergraduate majors in a wide range of subject areas, the BSc will allow you to incorporate different areas of interest and expertise. 

As well as strongly emphasising transferable skills to improve your employment opportunities, this programme will expose you to cutting-edge technologies and provide a gateway to independent research. 

Throughout your undergraduate degree you’ll be taught by knowledgeable scientists, many of whom are major contributors in their field.

What can you study in Pharmacology?

You can study Pharmacology as a major in the Bachelor of Science (BSc).

Pharmacology is the study of chemicals that are biologically active and can be used to modify, cure or prevent illness. In practice, this requires a detailed understanding of both how the body functions and the problems that can occur. By identifying cellular and chemical abnormalities of the disease state, it’s possible to design molecules to fix problems that arise.

As a Pharmacology student you’ll study how drugs work at the molecular level and in living organisms. You’ll also explore factors that influence safe and effective drug use in various populations. 

You’ll take courses that focus on the interaction of drugs with target molecules, the biochemical processes involved in achieving clinically relevant drug concentrations, and the way in which diseases in a variety of organ systems can be treated.

As part of your Pharmacology major you’ll complete a capstone course, PHARMCOL 399, where you'll work both individually and in small groups to apply the knowledge you’ve gained and demonstrate mastery of fundamental skills in Pharmacology. 

You’ll investigate the processes of drug development within the context of the ethical and legal framework for using experimental animals and human subjects in New Zealand.

Secondary school qualifications

country or region not listed: You need to have one of the following:

• International Baccalaureate Diploma with a minimum total score of 24.
• General Certificate of Education (GCE) Advanced Level. You must have completed a minimum of three A-Level subjects with at least a ‘C’ grade (55%-59%) or higher. General Studies or similar general paper cannot be included.
• Cambridge International Examinations (CIE). You must have completed a minimum of three A-level subjects.

India: You need to have one of the following:

• 12 years of schooling and an overall average of 75% in the All-India Senior School Certificate (AISSC), Indian School Certificate (ISC), Karnataka, Maharashtra and West Bengal State Board Examinations with a minimum of 70%t in English.
• 12 years of schooling and an overall average of 80% in all other Higher Secondary State Board Examinations with a minimum of 75% in English.

China:

• The National College Entrance Examination (NCEE) otherwise known as Gaokao. (Have a high school diploma or equivalent, Be in good health…)

Other pathways to study

You could be eligible for another programme, or check out these alternative pathways:

• Bridge your educational gap with a preparation and foundation programme.
• If you are 20 on or before the first day of semester, have no formal University Entrance (UE) qualification, and are a New Zealand or Australian citizen or permanent resident you can apply for special admission.