Postgraduate Diploma in Science Communication

• Overview
• Contact details
• Subject area
• Programme requirements
• Regulations for the Postgraduate Diploma in Science Communication (PGDipSciComm)

Applications for this general qualification are now being accepted for 2023. While we are still teaching filmmaking, writing and engagement with society, the endorsements in Creative Non-Fiction Writing in Science, Science and Natural History Filmmaking, and Science in Society are in the process of being discontinued.

Overview

Dunedin is a UNESCO City of Literature, supports an International Science Festival, and is the wildlife capital of New Zealand, with colonies of seals, albatross and penguins all within the city's boundaries. The outstanding natural environment and dynamic cultural environment provide an excellent setting for the University of Otago’s Department of Science Communication, the home of story-telling and science.

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Contact details

Department of Science Communication

Email [email protected]
Web otago.ac.nz/science-communication

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Subject area

Science Communication

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Regulations for the Postgraduate Diploma in Science Communication (PGDipSciComm)

1. Admission to the Programme

   1. Admission to the programme shall be subject to the approval of the Pro-Vice Chancellor (Sciences), on the advice of the Head of the Department of Science Communication.
   2. Every applicant shall either
      1. have been admitted to the degree of Bachelor of Science; or
      2. have alternative qualifications acceptable to the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Sciences).

2. Structure of the Programme

   1. Every programme of study shall be as prescribed in the PGDipSciComm Schedule.
   2. A candidate who has completed the requirements for the Postgraduate Certificate in Science Communication shall be exempted from those papers in the programme for the diploma which have been previously passed for the certificate.

3. Duration of the Programme

   1. The programme may be taken by full-time candidates in two semesters.
   2. A candidate shall satisfy the requirements for the diploma within two years of admission to the programme.

4. Variations

   The Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Sciences) may in exceptional circumstances approve a course of study which does not comply with these regulations.

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Entrance requirements for postgraduate study vary by programme with most requiring a minimum bachelor-level qualification in the same field, and some having additional requirements such as relevant work experience and/or professional registration in New Zealand. 

A postgraduate certificate or postgraduate diploma can usually be taken at any time after the completion of your bachelor's degree.

If you hold an honours degree or postgraduate diploma you may be able to eligible for master’s study by thesis only. In some cases if you hold a bachelor’s degree you may apply for a coursework master’s degree or for master’s study by coursework and thesis.

To study a PhD you usually require the completion of a master’s degree, or a first-class or upper second-class honours degree in the same area of study, or a related discipline, as your intended area of research.

Check the postgraduate students pages for specific information on the entrance requirements of the programme you are interested in.

If your first language is not English you need to show you meet our English language requirements

• Step 1 – Select your course or programme
• Step 2 –  Check entry requirements and deadlines
• Step 3 – Apply online
• Step 4 – Submit your application
  
• Step 5 – Accept your Offer of Place