The Bachelor of Science (BSc) at the University of Otago is a three-year undergraduate degree that enables students to develop their interests in a science subject (science major) and related subjects. 

In addition, students have the flexibility to combine their major subject with other science subjects, as well as topics from different disciplines across the University.

Making, measuring, understanding.

Chemistry is a part of our lives; sometimes, we don’t even notice it! Yet, it’s at the heart of cooking and eating, breathing and seeing, the clothes we wear and the materials we use to construct our environment.

While studying Chemistry at Otago, you’ll look at how chemicals interact with each other, with light, and with the environment; how to synthesize novel materials and measure trace amounts of pollutants. 

Research interests in the Department of Chemistry include nanotechnology and marine chemistry, the development of intelligent polymers and anti-cancer drugs. 

Chemistry enables change in our world –medicine, technology and the environment. Study Chemistry at Otago, and be part of it!

Why study Chemistry?

Chemistry is the science of matter; it’s so fundamental it’s been called the central science. 

Studying Chemistry will help you develop an understanding of how the universe works. 

You’ll learn how to synthesize new chemicals that could profoundly affect people’s lives. 

You could assist with the discovery of new drugs, agrichemicals and energy sources and gain a highly transportable and internationally recognized qualification in Chemistry. 

Studying Chemistry at Otago means acquiring problem-solving skills within a chemical framework.

• Academic Transcripts
• Educational Credential Evaluators report (ECE) (If required)
• Proof of your identity (Full name, date of birth, and nationality)
• Certified/notarised copy (passport or birth certificate)
• English Language Proficiency (If Available)

Undergraduate entrance requirements

The university recognizes many other qualifications as equivalent to the New Zealand qualification for entrance. 

To check if the university recognizes your previous studies, determine the country where you gained the qualification. Countries entrance requirements example:

China entrance requirements:

Senior High School graduation and one year of successful study at a recognized institution of university standing; 
Or Senior High School graduation and completion of a diploma with high passing grades at a recognized institute or university.

Students with the requisite scores in Gaokao may be given direct entry to bachelor degree programme.

India entrance requirements:

Minimum overall average of 75% in the All India Senior School Examination (CBSE) or Indian School Certificate Examination (CISCE) with a minimum of 70% in English.

The scores are calculated on the best four academic subjects excluding local languages and non-academic subjects.

Iran entrance requirements:

One year of successful study at a recognized institution of university standing, or successful completion of a University of Otago Foundation Year programme or equivalent.

The university also accepts the following international qualifications:

• International Baccalaureate: IB Diploma with a minimum of 24 points.
• Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) GCE Advanced Levels: minimum Numerical Score of 8.
• Northern Consortium United Kingdom (NCUK) International Foundation Year (IFY)
• Satisfactory completion of one year's study at a recognized tertiary institution.

Background required

To enter Otago’s Chemistry programmes, you should have studied Chemistry to Year 13 Level.

Pathway programme

Study in your chosen subject area and gain a university entrance qualification

The University of Otago Pathway programme offers a university entrance qualification within two 13-week semesters for domestic and international students. It is called the Foundation Studies Certificate (FSC).