Postgraduate Diploma in Science and Technology – PGDipScTech

Program Overview

The Postgraduate Diploma in Science and Technology (PGDipScTech) is a one-year full-time or up to four-year part-time program designed for students with an undergraduate science degree who wish to pursue postgraduate research. It offers a wide range of specializations and electives, preparing students for careers in science and research, including roles as research scientists, environmental consultants, and science teachers. The program is recognized by professional bodies and meets the academic entry requirements for many postgraduate programs in science and technology.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Objective:

• Provides a stepping stone to a research-based postgraduate qualification, such as a Master of Science.
• Prepares students for in-depth research at a master's level.
• Equips students with the knowledge and skills to conduct independent research.

Description:

• Designed for students with an undergraduate science degree who are interested in postgraduate study but do not have a research background.
• Covers a wide range of science disciplines, including agricultural science, animal science, biological sciences, conservation biology, earth science, horticultural science, plant breeding, psychology, and zoology.
• Can be completed in one year (full-time) or up to four years (part-time).
• Available on-campus in Palmerston North and online for distance students.

Outline:

Schedule A: Endorsements:

• Students can choose from a variety of specializations, including:
• Agricultural Science
• Animal Science
• Biological Sciences
• Conservation Biology
• Earth Science
• Horticultural Science
• Plant Breeding
• Psychology
• Zoology

Schedule B: Electives:

• Students can choose from a wide range of elective courses, including:
• Special Topics (15 or 30 credits)
• Advanced Chemical Synthesis (30 credits)
• Research Methods in Chemistry and Nanoscience (30 credits)
• Workplace-based Learning in the Sciences (60 credits)
• Extended Workplace-based Learning in the Sciences (60 credits)
• 700-level courses from the 151 prefix

Assessment:

• Assessment methods vary depending on the chosen courses.
• Typical assessment methods include essays, research reports, presentations, projects, and exams.
• Grades are awarded based on a numerical scale (e.g., A+, A, A-, B+, B, etc.).

Teaching:

• Teaching is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, laboratory sessions, and online resources.
• Students are taught by experienced and qualified academics who are active researchers in their field.
• The program uses a variety of teaching methods to cater to different learning styles.

Careers:

• Graduates of the PGDipScTech are qualified for a wide range of careers in science and research.
• Potential career paths include:
• Research scientist
• Environmental consultant
• Science teacher
• Policy analyst
• Laboratory technician
• Data analyst
• Science communicator
• Many graduates also go on to further study at the master's or doctoral level.

Other:

• The PGDipScTech is a recognized qualification that meets the academic entry requirements for many postgraduate programs in science and technology.
• The program is also recognized by professional bodies, such as the New Zealand Institute of Science and Technology.
• Scholarships may be available to eligible domestic and international students.

Overall Conclusion:

The Postgraduate Diploma in Science and Technology is a well-respected program that provides students with the knowledge and skills to succeed in a research-oriented career. The program is flexible and can be tailored to individual student interests and career goals.