The Postgraduate Diploma of Science is a one-year program equivalent to the first year of an MSc. In Biological Sciences students take eight 400-level courses, including BIOL411 (Research Preparation) and BIOL412 (Research Proposal), but do not carry out research.
It is common for students enrolled in a PgDipSc to transfer to MSc part II providing they achieve a B average or better in their 400-level courses.
Biological Sciences entry requirements
Normally a B- average (GPA 4) for your 300-level science courses.
Transferring from a PgDipSc to MSc part II
If you are interested in progressing into MSc part II you need to decide on a research project and complete a research outline and proposal. Don’t wait until you receive your grades before organising a project and supervisor.
Things you need to know
- To transfer to MSc part II you need to obtain a B average (GPA 5) across your 400-level courses.
- If you are awarded a PgDipSc then your MSc result is determined on thesis only and you are not eligible for MSc with Honours. However, you can still be awarded an MSc with Merit/Distinction.
- Your MSc research outline forms part of the assessment of BIOL 411 and is due in late April. This brief statement tells us that you are intending on doing an MSc research project, that you have spoken to a prospective supervisor, that they have agreed to take you on as a student and that you have a provisional topic. This topic might change later.
- Your MSc thesis proposal forms part of the assessment for BIOL 412 and is due in late September. This is a more detailed document outlining the main aims and methods of your proposed research and contains details on what permits, equipment and funding you might need.
