Course details

Summary

‌Biochemistry brings together a number of branches of science with a view to understanding the chemistry of life. Such a unique and privileged position at the interface of the traditional sciences makes for a dynamic and exciting discipline. It provides basic insight into biological processes such as enzyme action, drug action, genetic engineering, photosynthesis and colour vision.

Biochemistry is at the cutting edge of contemporary science, research and industry. Biochemical innovation is critical in adding value to New Zealand's agricultural production, advancing medicine and understanding the fundamentals of the biological world around us.

Some knowledge of Biochemistry is useful for any student majoring in Biological Sciences and many areas of Chemistry.

The Postgraduate Diploma in Science offers those with some background in science the opportunity to undertake more advanced and in-depth study in a subject. The diploma is primarily coursework-based, but some courses allow for independent project work or research.

Qualification structure and duration

The PGDipSc is made up of four full-year courses or eight single-semester courses selected from a range of options. Normally the diploma must be completed in one year of full-time study, unless approval is granted for part-time enrolment from the Dean of Science.

Further study

This qualification is an ideal pathway into more advanced study. UC offers a number of scientific master's programmes as well as a Doctor of Philosophy.

These courses are particularly relevant for students planning postgraduate degrees in Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Plant Biology, Chemistry, Microbiology and Zoology.

Research work related to Biochemistry and Molecular Biology is being actively carried out by staff and postgraduate students in the School of Biological Sciences and the Department of Chemistry.

Career opportunities

Biochemists are key members of drug development teams in the pharmaceuticals industry. Many work in government departments (eg, in medicines regulation), diagnostic departments in hospitals, and in research institutes studying subjects as diverse as crop protection and nanotechnology.

You could find interesting graduate jobs and career progression with food and beverage producers, agricultural organisations, manufacturing and processing companies, the biotechnology industry, health and beauty care organisations or science publishers.

Graduates with Biochemistry in their degrees are also well-equipped to teach biology, chemistry and other science subjects in secondary schools.

Entry criteria

Bachelor of Science or other bachelor's degree and approved undergraduate science courses. The precise prerequisites vary for each subject, but are normally good grades in 300-level courses.

Other English language requirements: TOEFL PBT with a minimum score of 575 and TWE with a minimum score of 4.5; CCEL EAP Level 2 with a minimum B+ grade; CAE or CPE score of 176 with a minimum of 169 in reading, writing, listening and speaking; Pearson Test of English (Academic) - PTE with an overall score of 64 and no PTE communicative skills score below 58.