Master of Science - Immunology

The University of Otago

Immunology is taught within the Department of Microbiology. It is concerned with the study of how individuals protect themselves against infectious organisms, i.e. immunity and correcting abberant immune responses. Topics covered include the structure and function of the immune response, immunity to infectious diseases, vaccines and their use, and manipulation of the immune system (immunotherapy). Abnormalities and diseases of the immune system e.g. cancer, allergy, autoimmunity and AIDS also form an integral part of immunology.Employment opportunities for graduates are excellent with major employers being research and diagnostic laboratories, Crown Research Institutes and universities. This is a rapidly advancing and exciting discipline in which the University of Otago has had a long and productive role.A candidate achieving the degree by papers and a thesis shall normally follow a programme for the equivalent of not less than two years of full-time study and not more than three years of full-time study, and a candidate achieving the degree by thesis alone shall normally follow a programme of study for the equivalent of not less than one year of full-time study and not more than two years of full-time study. Exceptions shall be permitted only with the approval of the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Sciences).