PhD in Biotechnology
University of Canterbury
Duration
4 years
Intake
Degree
PhD
Program Overview
Biotechnology is of national and international importance. It considers and develops knowledge about biochemical, molecular, ecological, and evolutionary processes. Biotechnology tools are applied in research underpinning biodiversity and biosecurity throughout Aotearoa New Zealand.
Biotechnology research is directed towards developing technology with both economic and environmental outcomes. The OECD has predicted that, by 2030, biotechnology will assume a major role in the global economy with the advances from research in the tertiary sector.
Key Information
University
University of Canterbury
Campus
Total Credits
360 doctoral points
Study Mode
Full-time
Loan Availability
No
Program Details
Duration
Tuition Fee:
Format
Attendance:
Study Gap:
Fees & Funding:
Approximately NZD 7,500 – 8,500 per year for international doctoral students
Course Structure
Full time study
Year 1:
Develop research proposal, refine topic focus, undertake literature review, and begin primary data collection or experimentation.
Year 2:
Conduct core research, advanced data collection, analytical work, and start drafting thesis chapters.
Year 3:
Complete data analysis and interpretation, write thesis chapters, and begin revision.
Year 4 (if needed):
Final modifications, submission, and thesis examination.
Part time study
Years 1–2:
Research planning, literature review, and proposal development.
Years 3–4:
Major research activities, field or lab work, and chapter drafting.
Years 5–6:
Final thesis writing, revision, and submission.
Courses include
Because this is a research doctorate, the emphasis is on independent investigative work and the thesis (BIOL790) rather than taught courses. However, students may engage with advanced topics informally through seminars and research group activities in areas such as:
Molecular and Cellular Biology
Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
Conservation and Biodiversity
Environmental Biology
Biochemistry and Physiology
Biological Data Analysis
These are reflected in the broad postgraduate Biological Sciences offerings and active research areas within the school.
Entry Requirement
Academic
A research‑focused Bachelor’s degree with Honours (First Class or Second Class (Division I)) or a Master’s degree with research experience in Biological Sciences or a closely related field is normally required.
Language
IELTS - Minimum score of 6.5, no band below 6.0
PTE - Minimum score of 58, no communicative skills below 50
TOEFL - Minimum score of 90, with no section below 20
How To Apply
Quick flow:
Course → Apply → Offer → Visa → Travel → Study
Contact Us
Shakil Education Group
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