Pathway to masters A postgraduate diploma is the stepping stone to a research-based degree such as a masters. WHAT IS IT LIKE? The Postgraduate Diploma in Information Sciences is a taught programme, able to be completed in one year full-time. It is a stepping stone to a masters qualification. If you complete the postgraduate diploma with good grades, you may proceed to the Master of Information Sciences (which includes a professional practice project). Applying complex systems Undergraduate programmes focus on your technical knowledge such as programming skills. When you undertake postgraduate study, you will learn more about the application of the more complicated processes you can apply this knowledge to, such as developing complex and dependent operating and recognition systems. What will you learn? During your study you will learn how to apply problem-solving and analytical thinking skills to the analysis of, and solutions to, general software-based problems within the broader ICT community. You will gain skills in evaluating policies and processes used in the design, construction, testing and maintenance of advanced technological solutions in order to make informed strategic decisions. Flexibility of focus The Postgraduate Diploma in Information Sciences gives you the option to focus and major in computer science (including topics such as artificial intelligence and graphics) or information technology (including topics such as mobile systems and security). Or you have the freedom to graduate without a major and mix and match the topics that interest you the most. Topics you will study include Massey Auckland: artificial intelligence, compilers, computer graphics, computer vision, parallel and distributed computing, operating systems and advanced computer systems. Massey Palmerston North: empirical software engineering, program verification, human-computer interaction, technology - support learning, artificial intelligence, smart environment, machine learning, scientific computing, health informatics and graph algorithms. Postgraduate study is hard work but hugely rewarding and empowering. The Postgraduate Diploma in Information Sciences will push you to produce your best creative, strategic and theoretical ideas. The workload replicates the high-pressure environment of senior workplace roles. Careers A Postgraduate Diploma in Information Sciences gives you the best of theory and practice in information sciences. You will have the ability to run projects in professional practice and it is a stepping stone into a leadership role. It will open up greater opportunities in your career, more quickly. Postgraduate Diploma in Information Sciences structure You will follow a flexible course of study, consisting of courses totalling at least 120 credits at 700-level from the Schedule, including attendance at block courses, workshops, tutorials, or laboratories as required. The Postgraduate Diploma in Information Sciences may be awarded with or without an endorsement. You may complete an endorsement by passing at least 75 credits from an endorsement. The endorsements available are: Computer Science, Information Technology and Software Engineering. Your 120 credit postgraduate diploma will carry the award of Distinction, if completed at a superior standard (equivalent to First Class Honours), or Merit (equivalent to Second Class Honours, Division One) if completed within one year of first enrolling in full-time study.