The standard medical degree offered in New Zealand is the Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB). Students interested in pursuing medicine typically begin with a bachelor’s degree in a science-related field, such as Biomedical Science or Health Sciences. The MBChB is a five- to six-year undergraduate programme that provides a thorough education in medical sciences, clinical skills, and practical experience.
The latter years of the MBChB involve clinical rotations, where students gain hands-on experience in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings. These placements are designed to prepare students for real-world medical practice and patient care.
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Best Universities for Medicine in New Zealand
Below are the top medical universities in New Zealand (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025: Medicine).
The University of Auckland’s School of Medicine is located at the Grafton campus. The Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB) is a six-year undergraduate degree accredited by the Australian Medical Council on behalf of the Medical Council of New Zealand. Entry into the MBChB programme is highly competitive and based on academic performance, UCAT ANZ results, and a structured interview process.
Applicants may apply via two pathways: first-year entry from either the BHSc or BSc (Biomedical Science) at the University of Auckland, or Graduate Entry. The curriculum covers health systems, human behaviour, population health, medical humanities, and clinical practice. Graduates may pursue careers in general practice, hospital medicine, or further study such as a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or PhD.
- Course: Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB)
- Entry requirements: Minimum GPA of 6.0, UCAT ANZ final score of 15%, and interview score of 25%
The University of Otago Medical School offers a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MB ChB), with a strong emphasis on equitable health outcomes and patient-centred care. School leavers begin with the Health Sciences First Year course before applying for second-year medicine. Graduate applicants may also apply for direct entry into the second year.
Years 2 and 3 focus on integrated learning through body system modules and clinical cases. Years 4 and 5 involve hospital placements, rural practice, and general practice experience. The final year is a Trainee Intern year, functioning as a clinical apprenticeship, including a three-month elective project or placement.
- Course: Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MB ChB)
- Entry requirements: Excellent academic record, completion of Health Sciences First Year, and IELTS/TOEFL for international applicants
Auckland University of Technology (AUT) offers a Bachelor of Health Sciences in Medical Laboratory Science. This three-year programme equips students with expertise in laboratory medicine, clinical microbiology, haematology, transfusion science, and immunology. The degree is accredited by the New Zealand Medical Laboratory Science Board, enabling graduates to register as medical laboratory scientists.
The course includes lectures, lab sessions, and clinical placements. In the final year, students undertake a research project aligned with their interests and career goals.
- Course: Bachelor of Health Sciences in Medical Laboratory Science
- Entry requirements: Completion of Higher Secondary Education with Biology, Chemistry, and Mathematics; IELTS score of 6.5 overall
4. Massey University
While Massey University does not offer a traditional medical degree (MBChB), it provides strong pathways into health sciences through its Bachelor of Health Science and Bachelor of Biomedical Science programmes. These degrees focus on human biology, public health, and biomedical research, and are ideal for students interested in allied health careers or postgraduate medical study.
Students gain foundational knowledge in anatomy, physiology, genetics, and disease prevention, with opportunities for research and industry placements. Graduates often pursue careers in health policy, diagnostics, or further study in medicine or clinical sciences.
- Course: Bachelor of Biomedical Science / Bachelor of Health Science
- Entry requirements: Completion of secondary school with strong grades in science subjects; IELTS score of 6.5 overall
5. Victoria University of Wellington
Victoria University of Wellington does not offer a direct medical degree but provides excellent preparatory programmes through its Bachelor of Biomedical Science and Bachelor of Health programmes. These degrees are designed for students aiming to enter postgraduate medicine or work in health-related fields such as public health, pharmacology, or medical research.
The curriculum includes cell biology, human physiology, molecular genetics, and health systems. Students benefit from research-led teaching and access to cutting-edge laboratories and industry collaborations. Graduates are well-positioned for further study or careers in health innovation, diagnostics, and policy.
- Course: Bachelor of Biomedical Science / Bachelor of Health
- Entry requirements: Completion of secondary education with science subjects; IELTS score of 6.5 overall
Study Medicine in New Zealand
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