Overview
Dunedin is a UNESCO City of Literature, supports an International Science Festival, and is the wildlife capital of New Zealand, with colonies of seals, albatross and penguins all within the city's boundaries. The outstanding natural environment and dynamic cultural environment provide an excellent setting for the University of Otago’s Department of Science Communication, the home of story-telling and science.
The Postgraduate Diploma in Science Communication (PGDipSciComm) offers three Science Communication endorsements:
- Creative Non-Fiction Writing in Science
- Science and Natural History Filmmaking
- Science in Society
Information for new applicants
The Science and Natural History Filmmaking endorsement is subject to limitations on enrolment numbers. Qualified domestic students are given first preference, but places may be available for international students.
Contact details
Department of Science Communication
Email sciencecommunication@otago.ac.nz
Web otago.ac.nz/science-communication
Subject area
Programme requirements
Postgraduate Diploma in Science Communication (PGDipSciComm) endorsed in Creative Non-Fiction Writing in Science
Papers |
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Note: SCOM 432 and 433 may be substituted for SCOM 402 and 403 for Distance students in each option. |
Postgraduate Diploma in Science Communication (PGDipSciComm) endorsed in Science and Natural History Filmmaking
Papers |
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Note: SCOM 432 and 433 may be substituted for SCOM 402 and 403 for Distance students in each option. |
Postgraduate Diploma in Science Communication (PGDipSciComm) endorsed in Science in Society
Papers |
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Note: SCOM 432 and 433 may be substituted for SCOM 402 and 403 for Distance students in each option. |
Postgraduate Diploma in Science Communication (PGDipSciComm) unendorsed option
Papers |
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Any six SCOM 400-level papers which do not satisfy the requirements for one of the other Postgraduate Diploma in Science Communication endorsements. One paper at 400-level may be substituted for a prescribed paper, with approval of the Head of the Department of Science Communication. |
Regulations for the Postgraduate Diploma in Science Communication (PGDipSciComm)
Admission to the Programme
- Admission to the programme shall be subject to the approval of the Pro-Vice Chancellor (Sciences), on the advice of the Head of the Department of Science Communication.
- Every applicant shall either
- have been admitted to the degree of Bachelor of Science; or
- have alternative qualifications acceptable to the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Sciences).
Structure of the Programme
- Every programme of study shall be as prescribed for one of the options in the PGDipSciComm Schedule.
- A candidate who has completed the requirements for the Postgraduate Certificate in Science Communication shall be exempted from those papers in the programme for the diploma which have been previously passed for the certificate.
Duration of the Programme
- The programme may be taken by full-time candidates in two semesters.
- A candidate shall satisfy the requirements for the diploma within two years of admission to the programme.
Variations
The Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Sciences) may in exceptional circumstances approve a course of study which does not comply with these regulations.