To produce graduates who can extend and deepen their knowledge of the underpinning base theories and procedures used in the practice environment, in a wider and more encompassing scope than a postgraduate certificate, including a greater understanding of the roles of those who are working with them. Graduates will have completed an applied project, which allows them to address their practice from multiple perspectives and to position their practice within a wider industry context. This qualification prepares learners for further postgraduate study or a career in advanced sport or exercise.

Graduate Profile:
(Outcome) Graduates of the Postgraduate Diploma in Applied Science will be able to:
a. Work independently to integrate skills, techniques and ideas associated with their area of practice within an applied industry setting
b. Evaluate the historical and contemporary conventions of their field and describe how this has impacted on practice now
c. Analyse sophisticated information and incorporate critique to arrive at a resolved position within their area of practice
d. Reflect on the application of professional practice in a workplace environment
e. Produce a proposal-based body of critically engaged applied sport/exercise/health research
f. Integrate sustainability from cultural, social, environmental and/or economic perspectives
g. Assess and evaluate the cultural, social, environmental and/or economic impact of a project
h. Produce a scholarly research document or equivalent that supports a chosen project
i. Evaluate and articulate how their work is positioned within a wider context
j. Exhibit or present their project in a public forum

It is expected that graduates of the Postgraduate Diploma in Applied Science will be able to gain entry into master level qualifications at tertiary institutions (dependant on meeting programme-specific entry criteria). Possible programmes include the Master of Applied Science or the Master of Professional Practice at Otago Polytechnic; Master of Public Health, Physical Education or Teaching at the University of Otago; Master of Sport and Exercise, Public Health or Health Science at Massey University; or Master of Health Sciences or Science at the University of Auckland.

Minimum entry requirements are
1. The Bachelor of Applied Science (Level 7), or an equivalent qualification at bachelor level in a related discipline, or equivalent documented professional experience.
2. International learners are also required to achieve a minimum overall IELTS (Academic) score of 6.5, with no band score less than 6.0, from one test taken in the preceding two years, or equivalent.

Additional criteria
All applicants who are accepted must obtain a First Aid Certificate, and complete the requirements of the Vulnerable Children's Act 2014 (including police vetting), prior to commencing classes.