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Science student examining item in microscope in a lab

New Zealand Diploma in Applied Science (Level 5)

NZ2552

Course details

Summary

Studying in this programme will see you learn theory and technical knowledge in a range of natural and physical sciences. You will also learn a range of practical skills, laboratory methods, and the soft skills necessary for further studies in the field of science. Areas of study include chemistry, biology, microbiology, food nutrition, and environmental sciences.

This programme is highly practical. Alongside learning theory, you will spend hands-on time in the laboratory developing practical skills that are valuable in the workplace.

The classes for this programme are usually four days a week, with an average of five hours per day in class/labs. You will also be required to undertake self-directed study in your own time.

Although it is helpful to have a background in science, it is not essential. Part-time study is available for this programme; however, a high number of laboratory hours are required.

After successful completion, you may wish to progress on to study the New Zealand Diploma in Applied Science (Level 6).

What you will learn

You will complete eight modules in total, consisting of compulsory and elective modules.

Career/further opportunities

Graduates may be employed in routine operational positions in science-related fields of work, including manufacturing and regulatory industries, fieldwork, research and development.

Upon successfully completing this programme, graduates can apply to study for our New Zealand Diploma in Applied Science (Level 6), or further diploma, or bachelor degrees in a wide range of science-related disciplines.

Disclaimers

Entry criteria

General admission
You can apply for this programme if you meet one of the following:

  1. NCEA Level 2; which must include 14 science credits
    Or
  2. New Zealand Certificate in Applied Science (Level 3)
    Or
  3. Relevant equivalent

Special admission
Applicants who are at least 20 years of age on the programme start date for the semester and who do not meet the level of general admission requirements above and who believe that they have the level of preparedness for study at this level may apply for special admission. In assessing whether to grant special admission the primary focus will be on the applicant’s ability to demonstrate a likelihood to succeed in the programme. All decisions will be at the discretion of the Relevant Academic Authority.

Discretionary admission
If you do not meet any of the above options and you think you have what it takes to complete this programme, you can apply for discretionary admission. Your application may be accepted if you can demonstrate a good chance of success. Approval of discretionary entrance applications will be at the discretion of the Relevant Academic Authority.

English language requirements
International applicants must provide evidence that they have the necessary English language proficiency and are required to have an International English Language Test System (IELTS) Academic band score of 5.5, with no individual band score lower than 5.0 from one test taken in the last two years, or equivalent described in NZQA Rules.

Additional requirements
For the Pre-Analytical Technician pathway, students are required to be concurrently employed as Patient Services or Phlebotomy trainees.

Click the button below to see full details of the entry criteria.
Do not meet the entry criteria or need more information?

Pathways

Applied Science pathway diagram

To check what you need to gain direct entry to a course, review the entry criteria available on each programme page. These assist you in understanding what qualifications or experience are typically required to gain entry. You can contact our team at info@wintec.ac.nz or 0800 2 Wintec at any time for further guidance.

Your first day

Are you ready for your first day of class? Check out your start date and where you need to be. You can also find useful information about studying at Wintec on our welcome page.

Semester 2 2025

Date: Monday 21 July 2025
Time: 9am-1pm
Venue: Room to be confirmed, City Campus

At your induction (your first day), we will cover:
  • programme information and structure
  • timetables
  • how to access and use Moodle
  • helpful resources
  • take you on a campus tour
  • begin your first class. 

What you will need

Please bring a pen and notebook with you.

Timetable information

All Wintec timetables are available online here.

How to find your way around

Campus maps can be found here.

Parking and bus information

Both the Rotokauri and City campuses have parking available - payment and permits may be required. Learn more about parking and find out about bus services here.

He reo pōwhiri, your official welcome to Wintec

Tēnei te mihi mahana ki a koe e piki nei, e kake nei ki te Kuratini o Waikato.

You are warmly invited to attend the official welcome to Wintec for all new students, staff and whānau (family) at either our marae, Te Kōpū Mānia o Kirikiriroa or Rotokauri campus. The pōwhiri is a welcoming ceremony involving mihimihi (speeches), waiata (singing), and will conclude with kai timotimo (light refreshments). Please gather at the campus hubs, and a staff member will guide you through our pōwhiri.

Click here to find out when the next pōwhiri will be.

Course-related costs

Students enrolled in any course with a practical laboratory component are required to purchase a laboratory coat from an approved supplier.

Laboratory coats can be purchased from NZ Safety, located at 56 Lake Road, Frankton, or online from the Uniform Centre, product code 4302. The approximate cost is $60-$80.

Prospectus (course guide)

The Wintec Prospectus (otherwise known as a course guide) outlines everything you need to know about Wintec. It contains information about the Wintec campuses, student life, and the programmes that are on offer.

Access your copy of the Wintec Prospectus

The Wintec Prospectus (course guide) is available by downloading the file - click on the document below to access the file. Alternatively, to request a copy via email or the post, please complete the form below.

Request an emailable or printed copy of the Prospectus

Wintec will store your contact details to respond to your query, keep a profile of your interactions with Wintec, and send you promotional material.

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