The Graduate Diploma in Medical Laboratory Science at the University of Otago is a professional conversion programme that prepares science graduates for a career as registered medical laboratory scientists. It suits applicants with a relevant undergraduate science degree who want hands‑on clinical laboratory training and supervised placements in hospital and diagnostic laboratories.
The programme combines advanced laboratory science theory with intensive practical training. Core subjects cover clinical chemistry, haematology, blood transfusion and immunohaematology, medical microbiology, and molecular diagnostics. You will also study histology and cytology principles, quality management and laboratory safety, and professional practice and ethics in a healthcare setting.
Teaching is delivered through a blend of lectures, laboratory practicals, case‑based learning and supervised clinical placements in accredited diagnostic laboratories and teaching hospitals. Assessment typically includes written exams, practical competency assessments, workplace assessments during placements and a professional portfolio documenting clinical competencies.
Applicants normally need a completed undergraduate degree in biomedical science, medical laboratory science, or a closely related biological science subject with substantial coursework in biochemistry, microbiology, human physiology/ anatomy and genetics or molecular biology. Practical laboratory experience at undergraduate level is expected.
Additional requirements commonly include a police or background check, up‑to‑date immunisations and a health check for clinical placement eligibility. International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements and hold an appropriate visa or work entitlement for clinical placements in New Zealand.
Graduates are trained to work as medical laboratory scientists in public and private diagnostic laboratories, hospital pathology departments and community health services. Typical roles include clinical biochemist, haematology scientist, clinical microbiologist technologist, transfusion scientist, and molecular diagnostics technologist.
Career pathways can also lead to roles in research laboratories, public health and epidemiology, pathology management, quality assurance, and biomedical industry positions such as diagnostics development or laboratory sales and technical support. Completion of the programme makes graduates eligible to apply for registration with the relevant New Zealand professional regulatory body for medical laboratory scientists, pending demonstration of required competencies.
The University of Otago has a long established reputation in health sciences teaching and research, with strong links to tertiary hospitals and diagnostic services across the region. Students benefit from training in modern clinical laboratories, supervision by experienced practising laboratory scientists and access to Otago’s biomedical research expertise.
Practical placements in accredited hospital and community laboratories give real‑world experience and professional networking opportunities, supporting a smooth transition from academic study to clinical practice. The programme’s focus on quality systems and professional standards is designed to prepare graduates for the responsibilities of registered practice in New Zealand and beyond.
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