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Studying a graduate diploma helps you develop knowledge and skills in your chosen subject area which will enable you to undertake a new career or further study.

Why study a GradDip?

Graduate diplomas are intended to provide the equivalent of a major in a subject area that is different to your first degree’s major. You may be eligible if you haven’t studied for a degree before if you can demonstrate an interest in the subject area and a satisfactory academic ability.

A graduate diploma is a more in-depth version of a graduate certificate, is studied at undergraduate level, and can be completed in the equivalent of one year (two trimesters) of full-time study, or in some cases, extended part time study.

Candidates must gain 120 points at 100 level or above, including at least 75 points at 300 level or above, in the Graduate Diploma subjects.

Why study Materials Science?

Materials Science focuses on understanding the intrinsic structure of a material and the control of its structure through processing. It studies the relationship of the engineering properties of the three main classes of materials (metals, polymers and ceramics) as well as composites and semiconductors. Materials Scientists are in high demand internationally – particularly within the thriving polymer/plastics, metals, ceramics and composites industries. Your detailed understanding of material properties will help you to make important decisions on how to develop new materials and which materials should be used for specific products or applications. The wider Waikato region contains the highest density of materials-based companies in New Zealand, so as a University of Waikato Materials Science graduate you could also have a number of local employment opportunities available to you. You'll also gain the skills and knowledge to contribute to creating an engineering-based knowledge economy in New Zealand. As a Materials Science student at the University of Waikato, you will benefit from teaching that is research-led, provided by experts from across the materials spectrum who are internationally renowned for their research in light metals and composites. Facilities

The University of Waikato is home to a suite of well-equipped laboratories. You will have access to some of the latest scanning electron microscopy and advanced characterisation equipment – used to analyse and assess the structure of materials.

Career Opportunities

Materials Scientist

Materials Production Scientist/Consultant

Materials Failure Analyst

Sustainable Development Scientist/Consultant

Corrosion Consultant

Metallurgical Manufacturing Scientist/Consultant

Ceramic Manufacturing Scientist/Consultant

Composites Manufacturing Scientist/Consultant

Wood Manufacturing Scientist/Consultant

Research Scientist