Cell and Molecular Bioscience—Mātauranga Koiora Pūtau
Study Cell & Molecular Bioscience at Victoria University of Wellington and gain hands-on laboratory skills exploring genes, cells, and living systems.
Are you curious about how life really works? Do you want to understand the molecular machinery inside every cell—and use that knowledge to solve real-world problems? A BSc majoring in Cell and Molecular Bioscience (CBIO) opens the door to a world of discovery, innovation, and global impact.
In the CBIO major, you will dive into the fundamental science behind all living systems. You’ll gain an understanding of how living organisms function—from genes and molecules to whole cellular systems—and learn how cells behave and interact with their environment.
The CBIO major is flexible and can be combined with another area of interest such as Biotechnology, Marine Biology, Ecology, other sciences, or even Law. This gives you the freedom to tailor your degree to your passions and career goals.
Our graduates develop broad scientific knowledge and practical laboratory skills. You’ll be prepared to step into cutting‑edge industries or continue your journey into postgraduate research.
Where this degree can take you
Cell and Molecular Bioscience sits at the heart of modern science. Graduates pursue careers that help fight disease, engineer new medicines, advance sustainable agriculture, protect biodiversity, and build next‑generation technologies.
Example programme of study 2027
An example programme of study for an undergraduate Cell and Molecular Bioscience major is shown below. Note that this is an example—there is flexibility.
Required courses for the Cell and Molecular Bioscience major are highlighted in bold. Students must complete at least one of the courses marked with an asterisk (*).
Programme Director
Associate Professor
School of Biological Sciences