University of Otago

What you'll study

This programme combines advanced clinical coursework, evidence-based therapeutics and a significant independent research or practice-based project. Core topics typically include advanced pharmacotherapy and medication management, clinical pharmacokinetics, therapeutics across major disease areas (cardiovascular, respiratory, endocrine, infectious diseases, mental health), patient-centred medication review, and medication safety and optimisation.

• Clinical decision-making and patient assessment: structured approaches to history-taking, clinical reasoning and interprofessional communication.
• Advanced therapeutics: in-depth study of drug selection, dosing, monitoring and adverse effect management for complex patients.
• Clinical pharmacokinetics and dosing: principles applied to individualise therapy including therapeutic drug monitoring.
• Evidence-based practice and research methods: critical appraisal, applied statistics and research design to support a capstone project or dissertation.
• Service development and quality improvement: skills for implementing pharmacy-led services, audits and medication safety initiatives.

Teaching is normally delivered through a mix of seminars, case-based learning, practical workplace activities and supervision for the research/project component. Many students undertake the programme while working, with options for part-time and flexible study to support clinical placements and employment.

Entry requirements

Applicants are typically required to hold a recognised Bachelor of Pharmacy (or equivalent) and be a registered pharmacist in the practising jurisdiction. Relevant professional experience in clinical practice is expected; many successful applicants have several years of patient-care experience.

• Academic transcripts demonstrating an appropriate undergraduate degree in pharmacy or equivalent.
• Proof of current pharmacist registration or eligibility for registration.
• Curriculum vitae outlining professional experience and a statement of purpose describing clinical and career goals.
• Referees from practising clinical supervisors or employers may be requested; international applicants must meet the university's English language requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for advanced clinical roles in a variety of settings. Common career paths include hospital clinical pharmacist positions (ward-based or specialist services), primary care and general practice-based pharmacist roles, pharmacist prescribers where applicable, and consultant pharmacist positions focusing on medicines optimisation and safety.

• Specialist clinical pharmacist roles (cardiology, oncology, infectious diseases, renal, critical care).
• Medication management and review services in community and aged-care settings.
• Work in multidisciplinary teams in primary care networks and integrated health services.
• Opportunities in academia, clinical research, policy development and the pharmaceutical industry.

Why study at University of Otago

The University of Otago has a long-established School of Pharmacy with strong links to clinical services and hospitals in Dunedin and across New Zealand, providing authentic clinical learning opportunities. Teaching staff include experienced clinicians and researchers who supervise practice-based projects and research, and the programme emphasises the translation of evidence into patient-centred care.

Small cohort sizes and a focus on workplace learning enable close supervision and networking with practising pharmacists. The School supports flexible study patterns to accommodate working professionals and offers access to research facilities and clinical teaching partnerships that help graduates move into advanced practice and leadership roles in pharmacy.