Duration
Full-time: 1 year
Part-time: Varies
Next start date
2025 Semester One – 3 March
2025 Semester Two – 21 July
Available locations
City
Points
120
Programme type
Postgraduate

Programme overview

The PGDipForensic is an advanced qualification designed for students who have an undergraduate degree in science or technology related topics. It provides graduates with specialised knowledge and skills in the field of forensic science.

Taught at the School of Chemical Sciences, the PGDipForensic covers a broad range of topics. From DNA analysis to the development of new molecules to aid in the visualisation of fingerprint residues, students will learn about forensic data, chemical analysis, forensic biology and the statistical treatment of forensic data.

Programme structure

The PGDipForensic programme is a 120-point taught diploma that involves one year of full-time study, with a part-time option available (up to four years of study).

105 points from:

And

  • 15 points from an approved 600 or 700 level course

Postgraduate pathway

Download the Science postgraduate pathway (117KB, PDF)

You'll also need to meet other requirements, including time limits and total points limits. See Postgraduate enrolment.

For all official programme information, including regulations about entry, enrolment, fees, examinations, and requirements for degrees, diplomas and certificates, see the University Calendar.

2024 entry requirements

My highest qualification is from:

Programme requirements

Minimum programme requirements

Requirements listed here are the grades required if your undergraduate degree major is Chemistry or Biology. If your grade is not high enough or you have a different major, your application will still be considered if places are available.

  • Study option
    Taught 120 points
    Grade required
    GPA Grade Point Average 4.0

    Bachelor of Science

Further programme requirements

Taught 120 points

You must have completed a Bachelor of Science degree with a GPA of 4.0.

Programme requirements

Minimum programme requirements

Requirements listed here are the grades required if your undergraduate degree major is Chemistry or Biology. If your grade is not high enough or you have a different major, your application will still be considered if places are available.

  • Study option
    Taught 120 points
    Grade required
    GPE Grade Point Equivalent 4.0

    Undergraduate degree in science

  • Qualification
    IELTS Academic International English Language Testing System
    Score required
    6.5

Further programme requirements

Taught 120 points

You must have completed an undergraduate degree in science at a recognised university (or similar institution) with a GPE of 4.0.

For all official programme information, including regulations about entry, enrolment, fees, examinations, and requirements for degrees, diplomas and certificates, see the University Calendar.

How much does a Postgraduate Diploma in Forensic Science cost per year?

2025 fees

Domestic students
NZ$10,892.40*
International students
NZ$50,810*

Fees are set in advance of each calendar year and will be updated on this website. Fees are inclusive of 15% GST, but do not include the Student Services Fee, course books, travel and health insurance, or living costs. Amounts shown are indicative only. In addition to the tuition fees, there is a Student Services Fee of $8.88 per point, estimated at $1,065.60 for full-time study (120 points). Fees will be confirmed upon completion of enrolment into courses.

*Please note: amounts shown are indicative and estimates only.

Find out about financial support information

Scholarships and awards

Find out about the scholarships you may be eligible for.

Student loans and allowances

Are you a New Zealand citizen or resident? You could be eligible for a student loan or allowance.

Cost of living

Get an idea of how much accommodation and general living in Auckland will cost.

For all official programme information, including regulations about entry, enrolment, fees, examinations, and requirements for degrees, diplomas and certificates, see the University Calendar.

Key dates

Please note: We will consider late applications if places are still available. International students should start the application process as early as possible to allow sufficient time to apply for a visa.

Application closing dates

Semester One 2025
1 November 2024
Semester Two 2025
4 July 2025

Start dates

Here are the start dates for the programme.

Other important dates

See important dates for the academic year, including orientation, enrolment, study breaks, exams, and graduation.

For all official programme information, including regulations about entry, enrolment, fees, examinations, and requirements for degrees, diplomas and certificates, see the University Calendar.

Where could this programme take you?

The PGDipForensic prepares graduates for employment in the forensic science field.

Jobs related to this programme

  • Document examiner
  • ESR technician
  • Fingerprint examiner
  • Forensic geologist
  • Forensic scientist
  • Laboratory technician
  • Pharmaceutical representative

Read what Mickayla has to say about the Postgraduate Diploma in Forensic Science.

Read more

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