The PhD is a globally recognised postgraduate research degree and the highest level of degree you can achieve. PhD students are critical, curious, creative thinkers who undertake original research over at least 3 years.
This course is also offered at overseas locations.
Pharmacology
Pharmacology is about the study of drugs, examining how they work, how they are processed by the body and the relationship between concentration and effect.
Are you interested in understanding how drugs work? And how they can improve health? Pharmacology is an exciting field of study and is essential to the discovery of new medicines to fight diseases.
Whether it’s a drug we swallow for a headache or to cure cancer, Pharmacology looks at how the medication produces beneficial and adverse effects. Pharmacology also explores how we can improve the way drugs are tested.
Where can Pharmacology take you?
Our graduates work in government and pharmaceutical industries, healthcare and universities. Many pharmacologists work in labs, but others teach, work in publishing or have regulatory roles.
Programme structure
The University of Auckland PhD is a three-to-four year full-time advanced research degree.
On possible to the PhD programme, you will be enrolled provisionally. By the end of your first year, you must meet a number of goals to be confirmed into the PhD programme, including developing a full thesis proposal. After confirmation, you will continue to work on your research before submitting your thesis for examination after three years and within four years of your start date. The examination process includes an oral exam.
As part of your PhD study, you can take part in our doctoral skills programme, designed to help you achieve success in your research and develop skills for your future. We have a dedicated postgraduate careers advisor, and our library service includes specialist subject librarians to help you in your research. The central School of Graduate Studies provides dedicated support and advice for the doctoral community. This subject also available in faculty of science.
Where could this programme take you?
Our PhD graduates are successful in a wide range of fields and careers, as well as the traditional academic research career path. The PhD gives you extensive specialist and transferable skills, which are sought after in many sectors, including industry and government, and can even help you to develop entrepreneurship skills to run your own startup.
*Price shown is for indicative purposes, please check with institution
3 March 2025
Epsom Campus
74 Epsom Avenue,
AUCKLAND,
Epsom,
1023, New Zealand
*Price shown is for indicative purposes, please check with institution
3 March 2025
Grafton Campus
85 Park Road,
AUCKLAND,
Grafton,
1023, New Zealand
Masters-level qualification or the equivalent of a bachelors degree with honours
Evidence of significant research, usually undertaken as part of prior study
English language requirements
*There may be different IELTS requirements depending on your chosen course.
The University of Auckland is New Zealand’s largest and most highly ranked university, with a global reputation for academic excellence.