Applied Geology

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.

Applied Geology looks at how geological issues affect the lives of human beings. It studies the effects of naturally-occurring geological hazards, such as landslides and volcanic eruptions, environmental problems from such areas as waste disposal and groundwater contamination, and looks at how to manage and access natural resources, such as petroleum and minerals.

Papers

Either

• GEOL 401 Current Topics and Advanced Methods in Geoscience
• Six further 400-level GEOL papers
• Three further approved papers at 400-level
• APPS 597 Supervised Independent Study

or

• GEOL 402 Advanced Research Methods in Geoscience 1
• GEOL 403 Advanced Research Methods in Geoscience 2
• Six further 400-level GEOL papers
• Three further approved papers at 400-level
• APPS 597 Supervised Independent Study

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.