Course details

Summary

The Master of Applied Science (MAppSc) is a 180-point, coursework postgraduate degree. A candidate would normally be a graduate but the degree is also open to those with other relevant qualifications.

The MAppSc is designed for students who wish to pursue an interdisciplinary programme of study underpinned by science that delivers versatile skills relevant to multiple end-users. Optional paths are available that emphasize commercialization, workplace-based projects or independent study.

The MAppSc can be completed in 12 months or in stages, providing flexibility for recent graduates and those currently employed.

The Science in Society endorsement prepares students for a spectrum of opportunities as professional science communicators. Science communicators present scientific content in a relevant context and promote public interactions with science. Science communicators also participate in advising and devising strategies to increase the use of scientific information and evidence in personal and policy decision making. Graduates have found work with a range of employers including museums, media centres, universities and government agencies. Other graduates run their own science communication businesses.

SCOM students in the MAppSc is expected to produce a creative science communication resource. Our students have produced teaching resources, ecotourism material, games, museum exhibitions and art installations. You will be encouraged to identify something you are passionate about and produce a creative output that meets a need.

Papers

SCOM 402 The Craft of Storytelling

SCOM 404 Science Communication Internship

SCOM 406 Science Exhibitions and Interpretation

SCOM 409 Introduction to Science Communication

SCOM 413 Digital Production for Science Communication

two other 400-level papers

APPS 597 (e.g. production of exhibition or multimedia project)

Notes:

This programme requires three semesters of study.

With approval, SCOM 5A may replace APPS 597 and one 400-level paper.

One other paper at 400-level may be substituted for one of the prescribed papers, with approval from the Director of the Centre for Science Communication.

Entry criteria

Admission to the programme shall be subject to the approval of the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Sciences).

Every applicant shall have fulfilled one of the following conditions: be a graduate and have achieved an average grade of at least B in the relevant 300-level papers; have obtained a Postgraduate Certificate or a Postgraduate Diploma in Applied Science with an average grade of at least B; have equivalent alternative qualifications or experience acceptable to the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Sciences).

In considering an applicant's qualifications, regard will be had to the detail of the course of study followed to gain the qualification, as well as the applicant's performance in the programme.

English Language Requirements

IELTS - Score of 6.5 in the academic module (with no individual band below 6.0); Internet-based TOEFL Score of 95 with a minimum writing score of 22.; Paper-based TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) score of 587 (TWE 4.5); Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE) – Overall score of 176 (with no individual band below 169); Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English (CAE) – Overall score of 176 (with no individual band below 169); APIEL Advanced Placement International English Language Examination - Grade 4 or higher; Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic - Overall score of 64 with no communicative skills score below 57; University of Otago Foundation Studies Ltd: Completion of 'English for Postgraduate Academic Purposes' with a grade of C or higher.