Biomedical Science

The Bachelor of Biomedical Science at The University of Auckland is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed for students interested in exploring the complex systems of the human body, disease mechanisms, and advances in healthcare. This degree provides a strong foundation in the biological and medical sciences, equipping graduates with the essential knowledge and skills to pursue careers in healthcare, medical research, or further study in health-related fields. The program emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical laboratory skills, ensuring students are well-prepared for the challenges of scientific careers.

Throughout the course, students study key areas such as cell and molecular biology, physiology, pathology, microbiology, and immunology. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and research skills, allowing students to apply scientific principles to real-world health issues. The program also offers specialized courses in biomedical ethics, disease prevention, and diagnostic techniques, reflecting the multidisciplinary nature of modern biomedical sciences.

Students benefit from state-of-the-art laboratories, research opportunities, and close collaborations with health and research institutions. The program includes options for internships and collaborative projects, enabling students to gain practical experience and professional connections. Graduates from the Bachelor of Biomedical Science are well-positioned for employment in medical laboratories, pharmaceutical companies, biotechnology firms, or to continue their education through postgraduate studies such as honours, postgraduate diplomas, or master's programs.

The degree is designed to meet the changing needs of the healthcare and biomedical research sectors, ensuring graduates are adaptable and equipped with current scientific knowledge. With a focus on innovation and excellence, the Bachelor of Biomedical Science at The University of Auckland prepares students to contribute meaningfully to advancements in medicine and health sciences, making a positive impact on community health and well-being.

Year 1 courses

• 90 points: BIOSCI 101, BIOSCI 106, BIOSCI 107, CHEM 110, PHYSICS 160, MEDSCI 142
• 15 points: Elective (for entry to MED, PHARM and OPTOM students must use POPLHLTH 111 as their elective. Other students may choose to take STATS 101, or STATS 108 or an alternative elective paper.)
• 15 points: General Education course approved for this programme*

Year 2 courses

• 60 points: BIOSCI 201-203, MEDSCI 205
• At least 45 points from MEDSCI 201, MEDSCI 203, MEDSCI 204, MEDSCI 206, (BIOSCI 204 or MEDSCI 202), PSYCH 202

It is then recommended to take either:

• At least 15 points from STATS 101, STATS 108, BIOSCI 209

Or

• 15 points: General Education course approved for this programme*

It is up to you to complete these requirements in Year 2 or Year 3, but they must be completed in order to fulfil the requirements of the major.

*Biomedical Science students can only take General Education courses from Schedule O and EMHSS.

Year 3 courses

• At least 30 points from BIOSCI 347-358
• At least 30 points from MEDSCI 301-317
• At least 15 points** at Stage III from BIOSCI, MEDSCI, CHEM 390, CHEM 392 or PSYCH 305
• At least a further 45 points from the Bachelor of Science Schedule

**Students intending to apply for Honours must complete 90 points (6 courses) at Stage III.

Research areas

We strongly recommend you focus your studies on a recognised area of research as you move into your second and third years. There are eight strands of research supported by academic groups at the University of Auckland.

• Cancer Biology and Therapeutics
• Cardiovascular Biology
• Cellular and Molecular Biomedicine
• Genetics and Development
• Microbiology and Immunology
• Neurobiology
• Nutrition
• Reproduction, Growth and Metabolism

Applying for an undergraduate program is possible after completion International Baccalaureate (IB) program or after two years of higher education. It is possible to apply for an University of Auckland preparation program for those who have not studied for a long of time or who do not meet the English language requirement. 

All applicants whose first language is not English will be required to provide satisfactory evidence of their proficiency in English:

• IELTS (Academic): Overall score of 6.0 and all bands 5.5 or better
• Internet-based TOEFL (iBT): Overall score of 80 plus a written score of 21
• Paper-based TOEFL: Overall score of 550 plus Essay (TWE) of 4.5
• Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) and Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE): Overall score of 169 and all bands 162 or better
• Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic: Overall score of 50 and no PTE communicative skills score below 42. You must authorise the University to view and verify your PTE scores.

The Bachelor of Biomedical Science at the University of Auckland offers a range of financing options to support students throughout their studies. Tuition fees vary depending on whether students are domestic or international, with domestic students benefiting from subsidized rates supported by the New Zealand government. For the 2023 academic year, the approximate tuition fee for domestic students enrolled full-time in biomedical sciences was around NZD 7,000 to NZD 8,000 per year. International students enrolled in this program paid higher fees, approximately NZD 45,000 to NZD 50,000 annually, reflecting the cost structure for international education at the university.

Students pursuing this program are encouraged to explore several funding avenues. The New Zealand government offers the Student Loan Scheme, which provides financial support for eligible domestic students to cover tuition fees and living costs. These loans are interest-free while students remain in the country and are repayable once students meet certain income thresholds after graduation. Additionally, the university itself offers scholarships and grants specific to biomedical sciences and related fields, rewarding academic excellence, research potential, or financial hardship.

International students have access to scholarships as well, which are highly competitive and often require excellent academic results and other criteria such as leadership or community involvement. Examples include the University of Auckland International Student Excellence Scholarship and faculty-specific awards. Outside of university-specific funding, students can seek support from external agencies, including government grants, private foundations, and industry-sponsored scholarships related to biomedical research and healthcare.

Students are encouraged to apply early for financial assistance, as funding opportunities may have limited availability and specific application deadlines. The university provides comprehensive advice and resources through its Financial Support Office to help students navigate their options and manage their finances effectively. In addition to scholarships and loans, students may consider part-time work opportunities available on campus or in the surrounding area to supplement their income during their studies. The university supports students in maintaining a healthy work-study balance and offers career services to assist with employment opportunities.

Overall, financing a biomedical science degree at the University of Auckland involves a combination of government support, university scholarships, external funding, and personal financial planning. Students are advised to review the specific eligibility requirements and application procedures for each funding source well in advance of their academic year to maximize their chances of securing financial assistance.

The Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Science at the University of Auckland is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to provide students with a thorough understanding of the biological and biomedical sciences. This program aims to prepare graduates for careers in healthcare, research, and related fields by combining foundational sciences with practical laboratory experience and contemporary biomedical topics. The curriculum typically covers essential areas such as human anatomy, physiology, microbiology, biochemistry, and molecular biology, alongside specialized courses in pathology, pharmacology, and clinical sciences. Students are often encouraged to undertake research projects, internships, or work placements to gain real-world experience and develop critical skills in scientific investigation, data analysis, and problem-solving.

The program emphasizes innovation and hands-on learning, often incorporating modern laboratory techniques and emerging biomedical technologies. Throughout their studies, students learn about the latest advancements in medicine, disease mechanisms, and biomedical research, which prepares them for further training or entry into the healthcare sector. The University of Auckland supports students through dedicated academic advising, research opportunities, and access to state-of-the-art facilities. The program also promotes interdisciplinary collaboration, encouraging students to work across scientific fields to solve complex biomedical problems. Graduates of the Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Science are equipped with a strong scientific foundation, analytical skills, and a comprehensive understanding of biomedical principles, making them well-suited for careers in clinical laboratories, medical research, pharmaceuticals, and health policy. Additionally, graduates often proceed to postgraduate study or professional training programs in health sciences or medicine, fostering further specialization and expertise in the biomedical field. The program’s structure, emphasis on practical skills, and focus on current biomedical challenges make it a dynamic and valuable degree for students passionate about improving human health through science.