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.
What can’t be seen matters
Microbes are essential for maintaining life on Earth.
They comprise more than 50 percent of the life forms on our planet, yet only around 1 percent have been identified and studied.
Infectious microorganisms, including bacteria and viruses, can attack our bodies and we rely on our immune system to protect us.
Thus the relationship between microbes and immune cells is critical for our survival.
The University of Otago is the only institution in New Zealand offering bachelor’s degrees in both Microbiology AND Infection and Immunity.
The courses provide insights into the unseen world of microbes and the immune system and an understanding of the practical applications arising from their study.
Why study Microbiology and Immunology?
Microorganisms are everywhere – in our bodies, our food, the air, soil, and water. Because they’re everywhere, they’re involved in almost every aspect of our lives.
They are used in producing foods such as cheese, wine, and beer, as well as many pharmaceutical, chemical, and agricultural products.
They are important for soil fertility and the decomposition of materials but can cause major diseases in humans, animals, and plants.
The harmful effects of some microorganisms link microbiology with immunology.
Immunologists investigate how graduates can protect humans and animals from infectious diseases by using vaccines, and the role of the immune system in non-infectious diseases such as cancer.
$58,109
| Cost of living | 1 person | $4,140 |
| Accommodation | 1 bed room | $18,696 |
| Tuition | 1 person | $39,413 |
TOEFL iBT Home Edition is currently accepted for applications for intakes commencing semester 2 2022 and 2023 intakes.
Pearson Test of English Academic Online is currently accepted for applications for intakes commencing in semester 2 2022 and 2023 intakes.
The University of Otago Language Centre English for Otago programme offers a pathway for Undergraduate and Postgraduate students to meet the English language requirements.
If you are not sitting the English for Otago entrance exam, these are the entrance requirements:
| Course | Test | Entrance requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate programme | IELTS | 5.5 (no band below 5.0) |
| IELTS Online | 5.5 (no band below 5.0) | |
| TOEFL iBT | 70 (writing 15) TOEFL iBT Home Edition is currently accepted for applications for intakes commencing semester 2 2022 and 2023 intakes. | |
| Pearson Test of English (Academic) | PTE (Academic) score of 42 with no band score lower than 36. Pearson Test of English Academic Online is currently accepted for applications for intakes commencing in semester 2 2022 and 2023 intakes. |
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:
There are no first-year papers labelled microbiology or infection and immunity. Instead, you take papers relating to the biology of cells and human health that include significant coverage of these subjects.
You will also take a paper in biological chemistry, so it is helpful to have studied Year 13 Biology and Chemistry.
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).
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