Course details

Summary

Best of all worlds

Biological sciences gives you expertise in a broad range of biological and fundamental sciences.

WHAT IS IT LIKE?

When you study Massey’s Master of Science with a major in biological sciences you don’t have to focus on one particular type of science, but will gain expertise across a range of your interests.

If you are interested in subjects like microbiology, genetics and biochemistry, but don’t have all the pre-requisites you need to specialise, or you want to open the door to a broader range of careers, a major in biological sciences gives you a broad-based degree that keeps your options open.

Within the degree you can focus on one particular area of science, or keep your study broad - the choice is yours!

Flexibility and industry links

At Massey you have the flexibility to choose from different locations for your study - either Manawatu or the Auckland campuses - as well as other research institutes such as AgResearch, Scion, and Plant & Food Research. This flexibility provides a great deal of project choice, as well as providing important industry linkages that enhance job prospects.

Friendly environment - passionate scientists

A critical part of the postgraduate experience at Massey is being part of the vibrant, well-established community of fundamental scientists and students. We have active student groups where we work together to share discoveries and research and provide peer support.

Why postgraduate study?

Postgraduate study is hard work but hugely rewarding and empowering. The Master of Science will push you to produce your best creative, strategic and theoretical ideas. The workload replicates the high-pressure environment of senior workplace roles. Our experts are there to guide but if you have come from undergraduate study, you will find that postgraduate study demands more in-depth and independent study.

Careers

As a Master of Science graduate in biological sciences you will have a wide range of career opportunities and can expect these to lead to leadership and managerial roles. These could be in areas including pure and applied research, quality control, product development, and positions of responsibility in medical, forensic, or analytical laboratories.

You could also work in government departments in policy development and analysis. Jobs in these areas can lead to high-level careers in management and administration in science and health-related fields.

• Crown Research Institutes (AgResearch, HortResearch, Plant and Food Research)
• Industry-based research institutes (Dairy, Meat, Wool, Wheat, Forestry, and Leather)
• Wineries, breweries, food and animal feedstuff industries
• Pharmaceutical development and manufacturing
• Secondary and tertiary educational institutions
• Biotechnology companies
• Scientific publishers
• District Health Boards
• Environmental Protection Agency
• Ministry of Business and Enterprise

A master’s degree in biological sciences provides graduates with internationally-marketable skills. It will provide opportunities for employment and careers across the globe.

Structure

You will follow a parts-based programme of study, which shall consist of courses totalling at least 180 credits, comprising Part One and Part Two as defined by the Courses Schedule.

Entry criteria

Admission to the Master of Science (180 or 240 credits) requires you to have

• a Bachelor of Science degree, or close equivalent, with a major in any of the following: Biological Sciences, Biochemistry, Ecology, Genetics, Microbiology, Physiology, Plant Biology or Zoology, with a minimum B average in the majoring 300 level courses; or
• a bachelor degree followed by a Graduate Diploma of Science or close equivalent, with a major in any of the following: Biological Sciences, Biochemistry, Ecology, Genetics, Microbiology, Physiology, Plant Biology or Zoology, with a minimum B average in the majoring 300 level courses.

Admission to the 120 credit Master of Science requires you to have a minimum B average for either of the following:

• a Bachelor of Science (Honours) with an endorsement in Biological Sciences; or
• a Postgraduate Diploma in Science with an endorsement in Biological Sciences

English language requirements:

• IELTS score of 6.5 (no band less than 6.0)
• TOEFL iBT score of 90 overall (min 20 in Writing)
• PTE Academic score of 58 Overall (min 50 in communicative skills)
• Cambridge English score of 180