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.

The world of genetics is enormous. It touches our everyday lives in ways we can’t even begin to imagine.

Genetics is a rapidly-progressing science, a central theme of modern biology, and a critical component of most biological research.

With a high demand for genetics graduates within New Zealand and overseas, a degree in this ground-breaking and practical discipline will provide you with many career options.

Genetics at Otago

The Genetics programme at Otago draws together the departments of Anatomy, Biochemistry, Botany, Microbiology and Immunology, Pathology, Pharmacology and Toxicology, Women’s and Children’s Health, and Zoology.

This allows staff and students to interact and share ideas across a broader sphere than in any department.

Why study Genetics?

Genetics is the study of genes and inheritance. It’s fun, attractive, challenging and relevant to everyday life! 

It’s a very diverse subject, in which you’ll learn about the molecular basis of life right through to the study of whole organisms, populations and evolution.

You will learn to make informed decisions about genetic engineering, cloning, and your health. 

In your lectures, you’ll also learn about the cutting-edge research at Otago and have many opportunities to undertake hands-on research.

• 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

You need to have an interest in the world around you!

Year 13 Biology, Chemistry, and Mathematics are strongly recommended (but not essential).

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).