Master of Applied Professional Studies (Mentoring and Leadership)

Programme Overview

The Master of Applied Professional Studies (Mentoring and Leadership) — Te Tohu Paerua Ako Mātanga Mahi – Ārahitanga Whakapono — is a practice-based postgraduate programme for working professionals seeking to advance their expertise in mentoring and leadership. The programme supports students to broaden their knowledge through reflective practice, critical evaluation, in-depth analysis of professional issues, and applied research. Theory is applied directly to work-based situations, meaning assessments and projects align with and support students' current professional employment. Upon successful completion, students also receive exit awards of the Postgraduate Diploma and Postgraduate Certificate in Applied Professional Studies (Mentoring and Leadership).

What You'll Study

Year 1 – Level 5 (Core Foundations)

• Professional Skills in Applied Science
• Quality Assurance in Applied Science
• Practical Laboratory Skills
• Microbiology in Industry
• Statistical Analysis for Applied Science
• Chemistry for Applied Science
• Biochemistry for Applied Science
• Organic Chemistry for Applied Science

Year 2 – Level 6 (Applied Practice)

• Applied Science Workplace Legislation
• Applied Science Work Placement 1
• Applied Science Investigation Project
• Quality Statistics for Applied Science
• Analytical Chemistry for Applied Science
• Advanced Culture Techniques for Applied Science
• Molecular Methodologies for Applied Science
• Applied Science Work Placement 2

Year 3 – Level 7 (Advanced & Research)

• Research Methods
• Biological Tissue Analysis
• Advanced Spectroscopic and Chromatographic Techniques
• Advanced Molecular Techniques
• Bioscience in Industry 3
• Sustainable Chemistry and Technology
• Elective (choose one): Industry Project / Internship (30 credits) OR Laboratory Project (30 credits)

Why Choose This Programme?

• Work-Based Learning: Assessments and projects directly support your current professional role — new skills can be applied on the job immediately
• Flexible Study: Part-time options available; if the PGDip is already completed, the Masters can be finished in just 16 weeks full-time
• Three Exit Awards: Earn the PGCert, PGDip, or full Master's degree at appropriate stages of completion
• Reflective Practice Focus: Develops self-aware, critically reflective leaders and mentors grounded in real professional contexts
• Two Intakes Per Year: Begin in May or July, offering flexible start options for working professionals

Entry Requirements

Academic: A Bachelor's Degree or Bachelor's Degree with Honours in a cognate subject with a B average or above, OR a Postgraduate Certificate or Postgraduate Diploma in a cognate subject with a B average or above. In exceptional circumstances, applicants who do not meet these criteria may be considered based on academic merit and relevant experience.

Workplace Access: Must have access to a relevant workplace. If not currently employed, at least two years of relevant experience to draw on is required.

Additional Requirements: Current CV required. All applicants are invited to an information meeting prior to enrolment. Admission numbers are limited and every applicant must be approved by the School Leader.

English: IELTS Academic 6.5 overall with no band score lower than 6.0, or NZ Certificate in English Language Level 5 with Academic Endorsement, or equivalent as outlined by NZQA.

Performance: Satisfactory academic progress required throughout the programme.