Science and Natural History Filmmaking

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.

Dunedin is the wildlife capital of New Zealand with colonies of seals, albatross and penguins all living within the city's boundaries. It is no accident that it has also become a centre for those involved in natural history filmmaking.

Learn how to take factual filmmaking to new heights. Taught in association with NHNZ – the world’s second-largest producer of documentaries – the course is taught by award-winning filmmakers who are some of the best in the business. Films produced by the Centre’s students have won many awards, including the industry's most prestigious.

Papers

• SCOM 402 The Craft of Storytelling
• SCOM 405 Business of Filmmaking
• SCOM 409 Introduction to Science Communication
• SCOM 411 The Techniques of Natural History and Science Filmmaking 1
• SCOM 412 The Techniques of Natural History and Science Filmmaking 2
• SCOM 413 Digital Production for Science Communication
• SCOM 419 Special Topic
• APPS 597 (including production of a film)

Notes: This programme requires three semesters of study.

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.

With approval, SCOM 5A may replace APPS597 and one 400-level paper.

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.