Certificate in Applied Science

Interested in science but not quite ready to start your university studies or not sure which direction to take? The Certificate in Applied Science gives you a taste of the many options in sciences or related areas.

The Certificate in Applied Science is designed to help you develop the academic skills and prepares you for further study in a bachelor’s degree in science, medical laboratory science or health. It's also a good option if you're returning to study and want to develop your study skills.

Download programme guides

Minimum entry requirements

If you have New Zealand qualifications

  • Completion of Year 12 or equivalent
  • At least 12 credits at level 2 in one subject from Biology, Chemistry, Earth and Space Science, Physics, Science; and
  • At least 12 credits at level 2 from one or more subjects from Classical Studies, Drama, English, Geography, Health Education, History, Art History, Media Studies, Social Studies, Te Reo Māori, Te Reo Rangatira, Business Studies, Economics, Physical Education, Calculus, Mathematics or Statistics

If you have qualifications from another country

See entry requirements for students from other countries. Select your country from the dropdown menu.

English language requirements

  • At least IELTS (Academic) of 5.5 overall with all bands 5 or higher; or equivalent.

English language requirements

In this certificate, you’ll build a strong foundation across biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics and academic writing. It’s designed to set you up for success in further study in a bachelor’s degree.

Choose eight courses from:

We recommend focusing on level 4 courses – they’ll give you the best grounding for what comes next.

Level 4 courses

Level 5 courses

*These courses aren't currently not being offered

More information about the Certificate in Applied Science

Email science.admin.team@aut.ac.nz

Quick facts
Programme code:
AK1018
Level:
4
Points:
120
Duration:
1 year full-time / part-time available
Campus:
City Campus
Starts:
23 Feb 2026
13 Jul 2026


Key semester dates
Fees
Domestic
$9,411.60 - $9,444.60 (for 120 points)
($8,190 - $8,223 tuition fees + $1,221.60 student services levy)
International
$40,821.60 (for 120 points)
($39,600 tuition fees + $1,221.60 student services levy)
  • Fees shown are based on a full-time workload for the points indicated next to the fee. The exact fee charged will depend on which courses you select at the time of enrolment.
  • Fees are subject to change year to year. If you are planning for study beyond the current year, fees may vary from those stated.
  • There may also be other fees and charges you need to pay.
  • International students' tuition fees reflect the full cost of tuition. Domestic students' tuition fees are less due to a proportion of the tuition fees being funded by the New Zealand Government.
  • Fees-free study may be available for domestic students

The information on this page was correct at time of publication. For a comprehensive overview of AUT qualifications, please refer to the Academic Calendar.