- 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:
- FORENSIC 701 Fundamental Concepts in Forensic Science
- FORENSIC 702 Introduction to Forensic Science
- FORENSIC 703 Statistics and Molecular Biology for Forensic Science
- FORENSIC 704 Techniques and Applications for Forensic Science
- FORENSIC 706 Environmental Forensic Science
- FORENSIC 707 Project in Forensic Science
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.
2025 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 optionTaught 120 pointsGrade requiredGPA Grade Point Average 3.5
Bachelor of Science
Further programme requirements
Taught 120 points
You must have completed a Bachelor of Science degree with a GPA of 3.5.
In exceptional circumstances, these requirements may be waived by the Associate Dean Academic, or nominee, if it is determined that you have at least three years of relevant practical, professional or scholarly experience.
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 optionTaught 120 pointsGrade requiredGPE Grade Point Equivalent 4.0
Undergraduate degree in science
-
QualificationIELTS Academic International English Language Testing SystemScore required6.5
No bands less than 6.0
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.
How much does a Postgraduate Diploma in Forensic Science cost per year?
2025 fees
- Domestic students
- NZ$10,892.40*
- International students
- NZ$52,842*
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 $9.24 per point, estimated at $1,108.80 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.
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.
| Semester One | Starts – 26 February |
|---|---|
| Ends – 24 June | |
| Semester Two | Starts – 15 July |
| Ends – 11 November |
| Semester One | Starts – 3 March |
|---|---|
| Ends – 30 June | |
| Semester Two | Starts – 21 July |
| Ends – 17 November |
Other important dates
See important dates for the academic year, including orientation, enrolment, study breaks, exams, and graduation.
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 moreStudent career planning service
Once you become a student at the University, you can get help with planning and developing your career from Career Development and Employability Services.
Key Information for Students
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Do you need help?
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You can phone us directly.
- Auckland
- 923 5025
- Outside Auckland
- 0800 61 62 63
- International
- +64 9 373 7513