Key information
Duration: Full-time: 36 months; Part-time: 72 months
Start dates & application deadlines: You can apply for and start this programme anytime. First day of any month.
Language: English
Credits: 360 alternative credits
Delivered: On Campus
Campus Location: Christchurch, New Zealand
Disciplines: Biotechnology
Overview
Biotechnology is of national and international importance. It considers and develops knowledge about biochemical, molecular, ecological, and evolutionary processes. Biotechnology tools are applied in research underpinning biodiversity and biosecurity throughout Aotearoa New Zealand.
Biotechnology research is directed towards developing technology with both economic and environmental outcomes. The OECD has predicted that, by 2030, biotechnology will assume a major role in the global economy with the advances from research in the tertiary sector.
The Biotechnology programme is offered at University of Canterbury. Visit the programme website for more information
Career opportunities
As an emerging field with both national and international importance, the Biotechnology program at University of Canterbury provides many career opportunities in universities, business, government agencies, Crown Research Institutes, and in ministries concerned with the environment, agriculture, and forestry.
Programme Structure
Courses include:
- Thesis
- Plant Developmental Biology and Biotechnology
- Research Proposal
- Research Preparation
- Conservation Genetics
- Cell Biology
Admission requirements
Academic requirements
GPA: Upper Second Class
Enrolment in a PhD requires completion of a research-focused honours or master’s degree, at First or Second Class (Division I) Honours or Distinction level (or equivalent qualifications).
Applicants with qualifications from outside Aotearoa New Zealand must have been granted admission to the University. Our admissions team, in consultation with the host department, look at your qualifications and transcripts to ensure that you have the background required to complete a PhD. It is possible that you may be required to complete preparatory courses prior to or after admission into a PhD programme.
In exceptional circumstances applicants without the typical academic background, but who can demonstrate the ability to pursue a PhD, may be admitted at the discretion of the Dean of Postgraduate Research.
English requirements
- Duolingo English Test: 120
- TOEFL iBT: 90
- PTE Academic: 58
- IELTS: 6.5
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
Tuition fees are shown in AUD and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.
International (non-residents): 6,954 AUD / year (≈ 8,570 NZD / year)
Domestic (citizens or residents): 6,954 AUD / year (≈ 8,570 NZD / year)
The ‘Tuition fee total’ is an estimate only. Your total study cost will depend on the courses you choose, and will include additional costs such as student levies, insurance, retakes, and other course-related costs.
International and national students: $8,570 - $10,321 (subject-dependent) per 120 points
Living costs
Christchurch, New Zealand: 1,055-1,623 AUD / month
The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.
