Program Overview

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New Zealand Diploma in Applied Science (Level 5)

Overview

This programme will equip you with skills required by the commercial science sector, which encompasses laboratories, manufacturing, food and product testing and quality management. Course content is made up of a mix of practical skills that you’ll use every day and theory relating directly to the modern workplace.

What will I study

Areas this programme covers include chemistry, applied microbiology, how to work in professional teams, ethics and quality assurance with an emphasis on practical, hands-on skills. The focus of this programme is practical laboratory skills and transferable team skills required in every workplace.

Pathway

Available part-time up to 3 years.

Details

Academic Requirements

• NCEA Level 2, which must include 14 credits in science
• OR Level 4 qualification in science or relevant equivalent
• If you have undertaken examinations other than NCEA (e.g. International Baccalaureate, Cambridge Examination), Ara will assess your qualification for academic entry equivalency.

Alternative Requirements

• Still want to study but don't meet the Academic Requirements?
• If you show that you have equivalent skills for tertiary study gained through study, work and/or life experience, you may be able to gain alternative entry.
• Note: The number of courses you have to complete for this qualification may be reduced where you have relevant credits from previous study, or evidence of similar learning or experience in the workplace.

English Requirements

• What if English is not my first Language?
• If English is not your first language, we want to make sure that you will be successful in your chosen programme of study.
• Please provide a result from a test or qualification on the acceptable alternatives
  • English Proficiency Outcomes Chart.
• If you are a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent Resident, complete an Admission and Enrolment form and Ara will contact you regarding a free assessment.
• If you are not a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent resident, book an IELTS or other test through the Ara Examination Centre or in your home country.
• IELTS scores used must be taken from a single IELTS Test Report Form and are valid for two years from the date of the test.
• What if I have achieved NCEA Level 3 University Entrance?
• You do not need to provide additional evidence of English Language skills.

Funding assistance

• If you face unexpected financial hardship during your studies, we have several funds that you can apply for. These are designed to enable you to continue your current course of study.
• We also have a wide range of scholarships and awards that can provide financial assistance.

Core courses

• Professional Skills for Applied Science (NSCI5501) - 15 credits
• Quality Assurance in Applied Science (NSCI5502) - 15 credits
• Practical Laboratory Skills (NSCI5503) - 15 credits
• Chemistry for Applied Science (NSCI5504) - 15 credits
• Statistical Analysis for Applied Science (NSCI5505) - 15 credits
• Microbiology in Industry (NSCI5506) - 15 credits
• Biochemistry for Applied Science (NSCI5507) - 15 credits

Elective courses

• Project Design and Analysis in Applied Science (NSCI6108) - 15 credits

Career opportunities

• This qualification leads to technician positions in medical laboratories, food testing, manufacturing and research.
• It will give you the skills to work in routine operational positions in science-related fields such as manufacturing and regulatory industries, field work, research and development.

Study pathways

• This national qualification leads to the New Zealand Diploma in Applied Science (Level 6) and can lead to higher-level study in a wide range of science-related disciplines.

Recommended school subjects

• Chemistry
• Biology
• Physical education
• Mathematics
• English-rich subjects

Programme details

• Type: Diploma
• Code: NZ2552
• May be available for Study Visa: Yes
• Credits: 120
• Level: 5
• Additional Equipment/Fees: Advised on enrolment
• May be eligible for Studylink: Yes
• Reference: NZ2552-STP

Credit Recognition

• If you have prior relevant experience or previous related study credits, you may be eligible for credit recognition towards this qualification.

Documents

• Admission & Enrolment Form PDF, 427 KB
• International Application Form PDF, 358 KB

Area of Interest

• Animal and Laboratory Science