Master of Science (MSc) in Molecular and Cellular Biology
Study an MSc at Waikato University and you will enjoy more lab and fieldwork, more one-on-one time with top academics and access to world-class research equipment. Our great industry contacts will also mean exciting collaborations with local, national and international companies and organizations.
Molecular and Cellular Biology explores the complex mechanisms that coordinate the essential systems that define a living cell and that allow cells to have differentiated properties. This knowledge is used to look at how unicellular and multicellular organisms function and how it can provide researchers with crucial insights into the basis of human and animal diseases.
By studying a major in Molecular and Cellular Biology at the University of Waikato, you will:
- Gain a detailed knowledge of the molecules of life and the relationship between the structure and function of biomolecules;
- Understand the subcellular and cellular organization of eukaryotic cells and the key catabolic, anabolic and metabolic cellular processes that occur;
- Learn how to distinguish between the genetic organization and gene expression of viruses, prokaryotes, and eukaryotes, and describe the mechanisms of inheritance and evolution;
- Be able to describe the anatomy and physiology of mammals and other organisms and the mechanisms behind certain diseases.
Along with relevant subject knowledge, you will also gain a range of critical thinking skills and practical learning experiences from our range of challenging and innovative papers and programs. There is a significant laboratory component to the Molecular and Cellular Biology major, where you will learn relevant skills and be exposed to some of the latest techniques available.
Campus Information
Hamilton campus
Our main campus is located in the vibrant, multicultural city of Hamilton, with outdoor activities, shopping malls and eateries only a short drive away. On campus, you’ll find a new state-of-the-art Student Centre, sporting facilities, cafes and eateries, car parking, subsidised bus services and more.
Tauranga campus
Our Tauranga campus is located in the heart of Tauranga’s CBD, surrounded by eateries, shopping and accommodation options. The campus itself is a brand-new multi-level building, featuring all the same student services as the Hamilton campus, with the advantage of being in the middle of the city.
Intakes
- March
- July
Application Processing Time in Days: 30
Application Process
Minimum English Language Requirements
| English Level Description | IELTS (1.0 -9.0) | TOEFL IBT (0-120) | TOEFL CBT (0-300) | PTE (10-90) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Expert | 9 | 120 | 297-300 | 86-90 | |
| Very Good | 8.5 | 115-119 | 280-293 | 83-86 | |
| Very Good | 8 | 110-114 | 270-280 | 79-83 | |
| Good | 7.5 | 102-109 | 253-267 | 73-79 | |
| Good | 7 | 94-101 | 240-253 | 65-73 | |
| Competent | 6.5 | 79-93 | 213-233 | 58-65 | |
| Competent | 6 | 60-78 | 170-210 | 50-58 | |
| Modest | 5.5 | 46-59 | 133-210 | 43-50 | |
| Modest | 5 | 35-45 | 107-133 | 36-43 | |
| Limited | 4 | 32-34 | 97-103 | 30-36 | |
| Extremely Limited | < 4 | < 31 | < 93 | < 30 |
Job Opportunity Potential
We can help you with career planning, developing your CV and cover letters, interview skills, enhancing your employability skills, volunteering and refining your personal brand. The services can connect you with employers through Career Fairs, employer campus visits and promotion of graduate opportunities.
Career Opportunities
Sustainability advisor
Anthropologist
Biodiversity Management
Climate action specialist
Community educator
Data analyst
Ecologist
Economist
Environmental Scientist
Foreign Affairs Advisor
Media advisor
Policy Analyst
Political Scientist
Politician
Public relations expert
Planner
PSW Opportunity
Level 7 (Bachelor’s degree)
- Duration: Equal to length of study (typically up to 3 years)
- Requirement: minimum 30 weeks full time study in NZ
Level 7 (Graduate Diploma)
Eligible for PSWV
Conditions:
- Must also hold a Bachelor’s degree (NZ or overseas)
- Duration: Up to length of study (typically 1 year)
Level 8 (Postgraduate Diploma)
- Duration: Equal to length of study, OR
- Up to 3 years in some cases (if part of higher qualification pathway)
Level 9 and 10 (Master’s degree and Doctoral degree)
- Duration: 3 years
- Condition: Must study at least 30 weeks in New Zealand
- Most eligible international students can work up to 25 hours per week during study and full-time during scheduled breaks, only if their student visa includes work rights.
- Foundation, pathway and short courses have different rules.
- Not allowed for part time students.
Admission Requirement / Eligibility Criteria
This degree consists of either:
• a dissertation and coursework;
• coursework only.
This degree can be either in the same area as your undergraduate study or in a new area of study.
Depending on your previous study and chosen subject, a masters may take one, one and a half, or two years to complete.
Entry requirements
A recognised bachelors degree with a B-/B/B+ average, and a B-/B/B+ average in a relevant subject (if required).
Please refer to the respective masters degree course page for more detailed admission criteria.
Some Faculties/Schools require an honours degree (to demonstrate research capacity). Where the above requirements are not met, further study in a lower level programme may be required first.
A recognised bachelors degree with a B/B+ average, and a B/B+ average in a relevant subject if required. Some faculties/schools require an honours degree (to demonstrate research capacity).
Where the above requirements are not met, further study in a lower level programme may be required first.
- IELTS (Academic)- 6.5 overall (no band less than 6.0)
- iBT (internet-based) TOEFL- 90 with a score of 21 in writing
- iBT (home-based) TOEFL- 90 with a score of 21 in writing
- Pearson PTE Academic- 58 and no PTE communicative skills below 50
- Course Type: Full Time
- Course Level: Masters/PG Degree
- Duration: 01 Year 06 Month
-
Total Tuition Fee:
61290 NZD
Average Cost of Living: 20000 NZD /year
Application Fee: N/A
Similar Programs
- Master of Science - Biomedical Sciences at University of Waikato
- Master of Data Science at University of Waikato
- Master of Pharmacy Practice at University of Waikato
- Master of Health Science at University of Waikato
- Master of Science (Research) in Computer Science at University of Waikato
- Master of Science in Computer Science at University of Waikato