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University of Otago
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Postgraduate Diploma in Science (PGDipSci) in Software Engineering

This course is available

On-Campus

Level of Study

Postgraduate Certificate or Diploma

Duration

1 year

Next start date

Expected

Summary

The Postgraduate Diploma in Science (PGDipSci) is a one-year programme which builds on an undergraduate science degree. The diploma encompasses both papers and a research topic, and can be taken full-time. It provides possible to the Master of Science (MSc) degree by thesis only.

Why study Software Engineering?

Software engineering requires modelling and understanding complex interactive systems, as well as identifying how the performance of computer information systems can be improved. It also includes managing the construction of the information system components, and ensuring procedures are in place for continual testing and maintenance.

You’ll be able to join a highly sought-after profession. New Zealand’s (and the world’s) future depends on having technical experts who can oversee the construction of the complex information systems that will underpin the new knowledge-based society.

You’ll gain the expertise to enter a fast-growing industry with highly-paid job opportunities, where innovation is rewarded.

You’ll discover the satisfaction of devising and modelling systems, and then testing them under a range of operating conditions.

What will I learn?

You’ll learn about databases, mathematical applications, software development, and strategies for using computers to solve real-life problems. You’ll cover issues like systems design, where you’ll assess software on issues like usability and visual appeal. You’ll also learn how to manage and coordinate a software project, taking into account modelling, costing, risk, organisation and resourcing.

Entry criteria

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 condition

  • have been admitted to the degree of Bachelor of Science majoring in the subject or subjects of study proposed
  • have been admitted with the status of one who is entitled to proceed to the diploma
  • have a qualification acceptable to the Pro-Vice-Chancellor and produce evidence satisfactory to the Pro-Vice-Chancellor of ability to proceed to the diploma.

English language requirement

  • IELTS Academic - Score of 6.5 in the academic module (with no individual band below 6.0). IELTS Online is also accepted.
  • Internet-based TOEFL - Score of 90 with a minimum writing score of 21
  • Paper-based TOEFL - score of 587 (TWE 4.5)
  • Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English (CAE) & Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE) - Minimum of 176
  • Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic - Overall score of 58 with no communicative skills score below 50.
  • LanguageCert - International ESOL: C1 Expert (LRWS) with a high pass overall and no less than a pass in each skill OR C2 Mastery (LRWS) with a pass overall and no less than a pass in each skill
  • NZCEL - NZCEL 5 Academic endorsement
  • University of Otago Language Centre ‘English for Otago’, English for Postgraduate Academic Purposes (EPAP) - Grade C or higher
  • University of Auckland English Language Academy (ELA) pathway programmes - Successful completion of the English Pathway for Postgraduate Studies (EPPS) with a B Grade
  • University of Auckland Foundation Certificate in English for Academic Purposes (FCertEAP) - Successful completion of the certificate with a B Grade
  • English NZ's Accredited Pathway Assessment - English NZ’s Accredited Pathway Assessment Level 3 (with no skill lower than Level 2).

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