Science in Society

Entry requirements

Admission to the programme shall be subject to the approval of the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Sciences).

Every applicant shall have fulfilled one of the following conditions: be a graduate and have achieved an average grade of at least B in the relevant 300-level papers; have obtained a Postgraduate Certificate or a Postgraduate Diploma in Applied Science with an average grade of at least B; have equivalent alternative qualifications or experience acceptable to the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Sciences).

In considering an applicant's qualifications, regard will be had to the detail of the course of study followed to gain the qualification, as well as the applicant's performance in the programme.

If your first language is not English you need to meet our English language requirements as follows: IELTS score of 6.5 in the academic module (with no individual band below 6.0); we also accept a number of other English language tests. Due to COVID-19, we currently accept Duolingo English Test (DET), IELTS Indicator Test, and TOEFL iBT Special home Edition.

Don’t meet the English language requirements? The University of Otago Language Centre English for Otago programme offers a pathway for Undergraduate and Postgraduate students to meet the English language requirements for undergraduate and postgraduate study.

Months of entry

February

Course content

The Master of Applied Science (MAppSc) is a 180-point, coursework postgraduate degree. A candidate would normally be a graduate but the degree is also open to those with other relevant qualifications.

The MAppSc is designed for students who wish to pursue an interdisciplinary programme of study underpinned by science that delivers versatile skills relevant to multiple end-users. Optional paths are available that emphasize commercialization, workplace-based projects or independent study.

The MAppSc can be completed in 12 months or in stages, providing flexibility for recent graduates and those currently employed.

The Science in Society endorsement prepares students for a spectrum of opportunities as professional science communicators. Science communicators present scientific content in a relevant context and promote public interactions with science. Science communicators also participate in advising and devising strategies to increase the use of scientific information and evidence in personal and policy decision making. Graduates have found work with a range of employers including museums, media centres, universities and government agencies. Other graduates run their own science communication businesses.

SCOM students in the MAppSc is expected to produce a creative science communication resource. Our students have produced teaching resources, ecotourism material, games, museum exhibitions and art installations. You will be encouraged to identify something you are passionate about and produce a creative output that meets a need.

Papers

• SCOM 402 The Craft of Storytelling
• SCOM 404 Science Communication Internship
• SCOM 406 Science Exhibitions and Interpretation
• SCOM 409 Introduction to Science Communication
• SCOM 413 Digital Production for Science Communication
• two other 400-level papers
• APPS 597 (e.g. production of exhibition or multimedia project)

Notes:

This programme requires three semesters of study.

With approval, SCOM 5A may replace APPS 597 and one 400-level paper.

One other paper at 400-level may be substituted for one of the prescribed papers, with approval from the Director of the Centre for Science Communication.

Information for international students

Otago offers students an unrivalled campus experience and a vibrant, social student culture. The majority of Otago’s 21,000 students live, work and play in Dunedin - New Zealand’s only true university city. Otago is home to over 3,000 students, from over 100 countries.

Fees and funding

New Zealand is a relatively affordable country to live in. Dunedin, being a student-focused city, has living and entertainment options for all budgets.

Students are eligible for the Otago International Excellence Scholarship.