MSc

An MSc in Physiology is an exciting and rewarding experience. In the Department of Physiology, the usual route is a PGDipSci (instead of 1st year MSc) followed by 2nd year MSc where you are engaged in full-time research for 12 months (or part-time research for 24 months).

Applying for Masters Thesis entry into the Department of Physiology

Once your 400-level marks are known, all prospective Masters thesis students must submit the following documentation to the Departmental Administrator for vetting by the Head of Department and the departmental Research Committee:

• CV
• Academic transcript
• Evidence of English Language Proficiency (if not already a University of Otago student)
• Statement describing why you wish to study for a Masters thesis at the University of Otago
• Referees' Reports (2) (only required if student has not taken their 400-level studies in the Department)
• One-page Masters thesis proposal/project outline in their own words but developed with supervisor
• The supervisor needs to provide:
  • Letter of appraisal of the applicant.
  • Letter indicating the space, equipment and funding required/available for the applicant’s research.
  • List of current PhD and Masters students with expected completion dates.
  • List of PhD, Masters, BSc (Hons), PGDipSci and BBiomedSc (Hons) students that they have supervised over the last 10 years. Please include time taken for completion of each individual's degree.

Each applicant will be assessed by the departmental Research Committee and HoD. A decision on acceptability for admission will be made within a fortnight of receipt of documentation. If admission is granted, apply formally using the University of Otago application form.

For details on Masters Thesis Scholarship Funding, please download our Graduate Handbook 2012.

Departmental Postgraduate Handbook for Thesis Students

For further detailed information about life as a thesis student in the Department of Physiology, please download our comprehensive guide.