AUT – Knowledge that works is one of New Zealand’s leading modern universities, located in Auckland. AUT is internationally recognised for industry-focused teaching, practical learning, strong employer connections, and research-led education. The university is especially known for health sciences, applied sciences, medical technologies, and healthcare innovation.

AUT offers modern laboratories, strong clinical and industry engagement, and a multicultural learning environment with students from over 100 countries. The university consistently focuses on employability, hands-on learning, and real-world healthcare applications. 

Why Study Postgraduate Diploma in Medical Laboratory Science at AUT?

The programme is designed for qualified medical laboratory scientists who want advanced professional and specialist knowledge in laboratory science, diagnostics, healthcare systems, and research applications.

Key advantages include:

• Industry-relevant curriculum aligned with modern laboratory technologies
• Advanced learning in diagnostic science and healthcare management
• Opportunity to specialise in either:
  • Specialist Scientist pathway
  • Management pathway
• Strong focus on evidence-based laboratory practice
• Exposure to healthcare ethics, policy, genetics, leadership, and research
• Pathway toward Master’s-level study
• Practical and professionally oriented teaching approach

Programme Structure / Subjects Offered

This is a coursework-based postgraduate diploma comprising 120 points. Students complete compulsory papers and then choose a pathway.

Core Compulsory Courses

Students complete:

• MELS802 – Quality Assurance in Laboratory Services (30 points)
• SCIE802 – Scientific Research, Application and Communication (30 points)

Specialist Scientist Pathway

This pathway is ideal for students interested in advanced scientific practice, laboratory innovation, genetics, and research.

Compulsory Paper

• PHIL880 – Ethics of Biotechnology (30 points)

Choose One:

• SCIE803 – Specialist Readings in Applied Science
• SCIE804 – Selected Topics in Applied Science
• GENE802 – Contemporary Molecular Genetics

Focus Areas

• Advanced diagnostics
• Molecular genetics
• Laboratory research
• Biotechnology ethics
• Research analysis
• Scientific evaluation

Management Pathway

This pathway focuses on healthcare leadership, policy, and laboratory management.

Choose One:

• MELS801 – Biomedical Ethics
• HEAL825 – Applied Healthcare Ethics

Choose Three:

• HEAL837 – Health Policy Applied
• HEAL816 – Special Topics
• HLAW801 – Health Law
• HEAL817 – Leadership and Management I
• HEAL818 – Leadership and Management II

Focus Areas

• Laboratory operations management
• Healthcare leadership
• Policy analysis
• Health law
• Ethics and governance
• Strategic healthcare management

Important International Student Requirement

A major requirement for this programme is New Zealand professional registration.

Students must already be:

• Registered with the Medical Sciences Council of New Zealand (MSCNZ)
• Holding a current practising certificate

Career Outcomes

Graduates may pursue careers in:

• Diagnostic laboratories
• Hospital laboratory services
• Molecular diagnostic laboratories
• Clinical research organisations
• Biomedical research facilities
• Public health laboratories
• Laboratory quality management
• Healthcare administration and policy
• Biotechnology organisations

Potential job roles include:

• Senior Medical Laboratory Scientist
• Laboratory Quality Manager
• Molecular Diagnostics Specialist
• Clinical Research Scientist
• Laboratory Operations Manager
• Healthcare Policy Advisor

Highlights of the Programme

• Advanced Level 8 postgraduate qualification
• Industry-focused and research-informed curriculum
• Flexible study with part-time option available
• Choice between scientific specialisation or management pathway
• Strong healthcare and laboratory industry relevance
• Pathway to Master of Medical Laboratory Science
• Modern learning facilities in central Auckland

Visa Requirements for International Students

International students generally require:

• Valid New Zealand student visa
• Offer of place from AUT
• Proof of tuition fee payment
• Evidence of sufficient living funds
• Medical insurance
• Valid passport
• English language evidence
• Health and character documentation

Latest Updates / Special Notes

• Current listed intakes are July 2026, February 2027, and July 2027.
• Part-time study options are available.
• Professional registration with MSCNZ is compulsory.
• The programme is highly specialised and intended primarily for practising medical laboratory professionals.
• AUT continues strengthening practical and industry-integrated learning approaches in health sciences.