Master of Science

Program Overview

Massey University's 1.5-year MSc program deepens scientific understanding, enhances research skills, and prepares students for advanced study or career progression. With diverse specializations in biological sciences, the program emphasizes active learning, personalized mentorship, and industry-aligned curriculum, equipping graduates with advanced knowledge and skills for success in scientific fields.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

General:

• The MSc is a 1.5-year program designed to deepen your understanding of a specific scientific field.
(180-credit option available. 240-credit options require additional time and course load.).
• It equips you with advanced knowledge and skills for a higher-level academic career and career progression in your chosen field.
• Massey's research-led teaching is conducted by respected world-class academics.
• Smaller class sizes offer personalized learning with greater access to your lecturers.
• Programs are aligned with industry needs ensuring your qualifications stay relevant and sought after by potential employers.

Key Objectives:

• Develop expertise in your chosen scientific area.
• Enhance your research skills including analysis and effective communication.
• Prepare for advanced study towards a PhD
• Achieve career advancement with advanced skillset and qualifications

Outline:

Program Structure:

• The MSc involves two parts that build upon each other.
• Part 1 emphasizes foundational knowledge and skills crucial for research.
• Successful completion of Part 1 leads to Part 2 which focuses on independent research culminating in a thesis or an extended coursework project.

Coursework:

• Each specialisation has specific coursework requirements.
• Part 1 typically involves 60-120 credits including compulsory and subject-specific courses.
• Part 2 usually demands 60-120 credits dedicated to your research thesis or project.

Specialisations:

• MSc at Massey offers diverse specialisations across biological sciences including:
• Agricultural Science
• Animal Science
• Chemistry
• Conservation Biology
• Earth Science
• Ecology
• Horticultural Science
• Human Nutrition
• Mathematics
• Nutrition and Dietetics
• Plant Breeding
• Statistics
• Zoology

Note:

Each specialization might have its own unique course requirements, research project expectations, and durations. Some specializations offer 180-credit or 120-credit thesis pathways.

Assessment:

Part 1

• Assessment usually involves essays, presentations, written examinations, labs, practical research assignments, and group projects as appropriate to your specific specialization
• Each course typically contributes differently to the final Part 1 grade
• Successful Part 1 completion requires achieving specified levels of performance in individual courses and overall
• Minimum pass grade is typically C
• Specific benchmarks for B and B+ averages might be required for progression to Part 2 research-based components within the specialization

Part 2

• Primarily assessed through the independent research thesis or advanced research project
• Thesis or project is evaluated by supervisors, an appointed examiner and external reviewer through written submissions and oral examination
• Additionally, you may undergo oral discussions and presentations about your research project
• Minimum overall pass mark for the completion of Part 2 is C

Grading:

• Grades assigned within Part 1 and Part 2 can either be traditional letter grades (A, B, C etc.)
or numerical equivalents

Teaching:

Delivery Mode:

• Primarily on-campus with lectures, tutorials, and practical sessions in dedicated laboratories and research facilities as relevant to your specialization
• Some specializations, like Psychology (Health Psychology) and some postgraduate courses within specializations, provide distance learning options
• Specific delivery details will vary depending on the specialization, research project structure, and chosen courses

Faculty and Supervision:

• Lecturers and supervisors within specialized areas conduct the teaching
• They are leading academics actively engaged in research, consultancy, and industry knowledge with international recognition through publications, conference presentations, and research grants within your subject area
• You get assigned a principal supervisor with expertise aligned to your research project focus
• Additional co-supervisors may contribute with relevant industry or complementary skills where suitable for an enhanced, well-rounded learning experience in your specialization

Pedagogical Approach:

• Emphasis on active learning and problem-solving approaches including practical exercises, real-world case studies, and field observations as relevant to your specialization
• Collaborative learning through group-based activities, seminar discussions, and presentations encouraged
• Personalized mentorship provided by supervisors in collaboration with your specific research plan, needs, and career aspirations

Technology

• Massey boasts modern learning spaces offering the latest educational technologies for interactive learning, data analysis, and visualization with potential access to leading laboratory infrastructure depending on your research topic and specialization

Careers:

Future prospects and opportunities vary depending on chosen specialization

. Some common examples include:

Possible careers with an MSc in:

• Agricultural Science: Research scientist, consultant, policy advisor, industry expert
• Animal Science: Animal geneticist, nutritionist, research scientist, veterinary technician
• Biological Sciences: Laboratory/ field researcher, scientific consultant, museum or conservation worker, policy analyst
• Chemistry: Scientist, researcher, laboratory technician, pharmaceuticals
• Conservation Biology: Environmental consultant, wildlife conservation scientist, national park warden
• Earth Science: Geology consultant, field researcher, resource exploration/management, environmental monitoring
• Ecology: Ecologist, conservation specialist, researcher, educator for environmental agencies & NGOs
• Horticultural Science: Research scientist, plant pathologist, consultant, horticultural advisor to industries
• Human Nutrition: Public health nutritionist, researcher, food & beverage industry specialist with research and development
• Mathematics: Statistician, data analyst, researcher, mathematical modeller/simulator within government & private sectors
• Nutrition and Dietetics: Registered dietitian, nutrition counselor, researcher
• Plant Breeding: Plant geneticist, research & development scientist at seed and grain companies
• Statistics: Statistical scientist, data analyst, research consultant (government departments or private institutions)
• Alumni & Industry networks: Massey fosters connection with alumni working throughout various scientific sectors who can serve as valuable mentors & sources of career guidance on career progression within different specialization

Other:

Key Dates:

• Semester intake for full-time study is typically two times a year: February and July - check current year updates as available