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University of Canterbury

Christchurch , Christchurch ,New Zealand

Postgraduate Certificate in Science - Cellular and Molecular Biology

Molecular Biology is the field of biology that studies the structure and function of genes at a molecular level. The study of chromosomes and gene expression of an organism can give insight into heredity, genetic variation, and mutations.

Genetics is at the heart of the cellular and molecular biology. It is the science of heredity. Genetics provides a platform for the development of new drugs to combat diseases, methodology for the conservation of endangered species, and understanding evolutionary patterns and processes. Furthermore, it helps us to understand who we are and what we are, enhance our biosecurity, and even catch criminals. Genetics is a rapidly advancing field that creates challenges and opportunities for society.

Cellular and Molecular Biology and Genetics are strongly represented at UC. This area overlaps with other majors such as Biochemistry, Microbiology, and increasingly, Ecology and Environmental Science.

Campus Information

Ilam Campus

The University has a main campus of 76 hectares (190 acres) at Ilam, a suburb of Christchurch about 5 kilometres (3.1 mi) from the centre of the city.

Intakes

  • Feb
  • July

Application Processing Time in Days: 20

Minimum English Language Requirements

English Level Description IELTS (1.0 -9.0) TOEFL IBT (0-120) TOEFL CBT (0-300) PTE (10-90)
Expert 9 120 297-300 86-90
Very Good 8.5 115-119 280-293 83-86
Very Good 8 110-114 270-280 79-83
Good 7.5 102-109 253-267 73-79
Good 7 94-101 240-253 65-73
Competent 6.5 79-93 213-233 58-65
Competent 6 60-78 170-210 50-58
Modest 5.5 46-59 133-210 43-50
Modest 5 35-45 107-133 36-43
Limited 4 32-34 97-103 30-36
Extremely Limited < 4 < 31 < 93 < 30

Job Opportunity Potential

A postgraduate qualification in a science subject will offer employers more advanced specialised knowledge and experience, leading to higher positions in industry.

Graduates will also be well placed to go onto research in their chosen scientific field.

PSW Opportunity

  • During study, all students on a student visa can work up to 20 hours per week during semester and full time during vacations.
  • After completing Level 7 Bachelor’s Degree or Higher Qualification, a student will get a three years open post-study work visa.
  • After completing Level 8 Post Graduate courses of 1 year, students get 1 year PSW.

Admission Requirement / Eligibility Criteria

Academic entry requirements

Students will need to have a Bachelor of Science or equivalent, or otherwise qualified for entry to the postgraduate study in your chosen subject as specified in the Regulations for the Postgraduate Diploma in Science or the Regulations for the Bachelor of Science with Honours. You may be required to first complete a preparatory program in this case.