Course details

Summary

Pathway to masters

A postgraduate diploma is the stepping stone to a research-based degree such as a masters or PhD.

What is it Like?

Massey University’s Postgraduate Diploma in Science (Genetics) gives you the opportunity to join the pathway to in-depth research at a masters level. The programme consists of 90 credits of taught programmes and 30 credits of research.

The programme gives you the opportunity to show your analytical thinking and high-level research capability. If you complete the programme at a satisfactory level you may be able to proceed to the Masters of Science (Genetics). If so, credits you have gained through this qualification may be credited to the masters programme.

World-class facilities

You will have access to world-class facilities including the Manawatu Microscopy and Imaging Centre and the Massey Genome Service (part of New Zealand Genomics Limited). You will also be able to utilise Massey’s broad range of expertise in the sciences, working with other departments and experts as you need to for your research.

Wide range of Specialties

Massey offers a very broad range of research areas in genetics, ranging from classical through molecular, biomedical, genomic and computational projects. These utilise a wide range of biological systems including microbial, plant, animal and human species.

Flexibility and industry links

At Massey you have the flexibility to choose from different locations for your study, including both the Manawatu and the Auckland campuses, as well as other research institutes such as AgResearch, Scion, and Plant & Food Research. This flexibility provides a great deal of project choice, as well as providing important industry linkages that enhance job prospects.

Why postgraduate study?

Postgraduate study is hard work but hugely rewarding and empowering. This qualification will push you to produce your best creative, strategic and theoretical ideas. The workload replicates the high-pressure environment of senior workplace roles. Our experts are there to guide but if you have come from undergraduate study, you will find that postgraduate study demands more in-depth and independent study.

Careers

Most genetics postgraduates gain employment as scientists in research institutes and universities both in New Zealand and overseas, in a wide variety of fields. Others have become forensic scientists, genetic counsellors, teachers, sales representatives, laboratory technicians, managers, journalists, ministry advisors, and health and safety advisors.

Sought after by employers

International trends are for employers to reward postgraduate study well, especially in larger enterprises. The skills you learn are increasingly recognized as setting you apart from other potential employees.

Postgraduate Diploma in Science and Technology (Genetics) structure

You will follow a flexible course of study, which shall consist of courses totalling at least 120 credits of courses at 700-level or above from the Schedule and may include attending field trips, studios, workshops, tutorials, and laboratories as required.

Entry criteria

Admission to the Postgraduate Diploma in Science (Genetics) requires you to have either

• a bachelor’s degree majoring in Genetics, with a minimum B- average in the majoring 300 level courses, or
• a bachelor’s degree followed by a Graduate Diploma endorsed in Genetics, with a minimum B- average in the 300 level courses

English language requirements:

• IELTS score of 6.5 (no band less than 6.0)
• TOEFL iBT score of 90 overall (min 20 in Writing)
• PTE Academic score of 58 Overall (min 50 in communicative skills)
• Cambridge English score of 180