Diploma of Applied Science (Z1J)

Overview  2024

Entry Requirements

See entry requirements

Duration

Minimum 1 Year, up to a maximum of 3 Years

Duration

Duration refers to the minimum and maximum amounts of time in which this course can be completed. It will be affected by whether you choose to study full or part time, noting that some programs are only available part time.

Location

Online
Semester 2

Entry Requirements

See entry requirements

Duration

Minimum 1 Year, up to a maximum of 3 Years

Duration

Duration refers to the minimum and maximum amounts of time in which this course can be completed. It will be affected by whether you choose to study full or part time, noting that some programs are only available part time.

Entry requirements

Location

The Diploma of Applied Science is an industry-focused program designed for people interested in working in fields that require specialised skills and knowledge of applied science principles and processes, including those who may never have considered a career in science.

The specialisations available under this course are:

  • Fermentation Science and Separation Processes (please note that Term 3 commencement is available part time only)
  • Aquaculture

The Fermentation Science and Separation Processes specialisation has been developed for people interested in working in innovative biotechnology industries such as brewing, winemaking, fermented food and drink production and plant-based cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. The Fermentation Science and Separation Processes specialisation will provide students the opportunity to learn about Tasmania’s innovative industries within the food and beverage (beer, cider, wine, whiskey, gin, cheese and other fermented foods) and premium bio-industries (essential oils, seaweed based fertilisers, poppies, pyrethrum and biodiesel). Specialisation subjects such as applied microbiology, applied chemistry and applied biology are integrated with core subjects such as applied maths, quality management, sustainability and technology & innovation. In the second year, students may choose additional elective subjects depending on their areas of interest.

The Aquaculture specialisation is aimed at people who wish to work in the aquaculture industry in Tasmania and mainland Australia. The course was developed in response to industry demand as the aquaculture industry is currently in a high growth phase. Aquaculture subjects are integrated with core subjects in applied science such as applied maths, quality management, sustainability and technology & innovation. In the second year, students may choose additional elective subjects depending on their areas of interest.  Aquaculture is the fastest growing primary industry in Tasmania.   The Associate Degree in Applied Science Aquaculture is relevant to all aspects of the Tasmanian industry, including salmon, trout, oysters, mussels and abalone. The Tasmanian aquaculture industry is a world leader in quality, innovation and technology. Currently, an estimated 2,595 Full Time Equivalent (FTE’s) are employed in the Tasmanian aquaculture sector (inclusive of salmonid processing) (*Seafood Industry Workforce Profile, May 2017.  Tasmanian Seafood Industry Council).

Industry experts have helped to develop the course and are actively involved in the delivery through teaching, site visits, case studies and work placements. As a result, graduates will be considered ‘workplace ready’ after two years of (full time) study.

Upon completion of the Diploma the opportunity for further study in this area can be obtained through the Associate Degree in Applied Science, with full credit.

The program is available for full-time and part-time study across all campuses in Tasmania and is delivered through a combination of online study, face-to-face classes, practical workshops and tutorials.

Graduates of the Diploma of Applied Science will have:

  • a pathway to a great career in aquaculture or applied biotechnology
  • opportunities to progress within their chosen field
  • practical skills to take straight into the workplace
  • the opportunity to undertake further study at the University of Tasmania.

The course structure

The Diploma of Applied Science is one year full-time (or equivalent part-time) course, based on four teaching terms of 10 weeks. The Diploma comprises 8 units with study in 8 different topic areas, each with a practical/hands-on learning component.

Core study areas include:

  • Biology of Aquaculture animals and plants (Aquaculture)
  • Understanding science
  • Applied chemistry
  • Applied maths
  • Regulatory challenges
  • Quality management
  • Sustainability
  • Technology & innovation
  • Project Management
  • 1 Describe fundamental science and technology theories, methodologies and principles and their application and influence in the workplace and society
  • 2 Apply fundamental and specialised science and technology methods and principles in a range of contexts
  • 3 Communicate scientific and technical concepts to a broad audience using a range of techniques
  • 4 Reflect on personal and professional goals, values and achievements to generate plans for self-development
  • Experiential education and work integrated learning approaches are central to the Diploma of Applied Science. Students will therefore learn through project and problem-based learning activities such as field work, case studies (local and international), action learning, design thinking, simulated environments, placements, data for decision making, wicked problems and more. These approaches ensure practical experiences are placed at the centre of learning and assessment and that students have the opportunity to develop work-related skills, knowledge and behaviours.

    In the diploma year, students are introduced to learning through practice and exposed to authentic experiences that develop skills and understandings related to industry, community or global needs. Students engage with (i) a range of methods and approaches to practice, (ii) principles and perspectives such as values, ethics, empathy and leadership in real world scenarios, (iii) reflection and deliberative thinking as a means of developing knowledge, skills, attitudes and aspirations, and (iv) ways of understanding problems and developing solutions through active inquiry.

    A key component of the course, which is established in the first year, is a Practice Manual. The Practice Manual contains all portfolio requirements for the course, including the Professional Development Plan (PDP) and is a collection of evidence that highlights personal, academic and professional development. Dedicated teachers are in coaching roles to support you to continuously develop your Practice Manual over the duration of the course. This involves working with you to determine what evidence best highlights your ability to apply theory in practice, and what activities and experiences showcase your achievement in terms of transferable skills, professional attributes, technical skills and knowledge, and so forth.

    Career outcomes

    Graduation from the Diploma of Applied Science can provide an entry opportunity for those who have not worked in science; accelerate progression through a graduate’s present organisation; or open up new career pathways and opportunities.

    Opportunities for students specialising in Applied Science (Fermentation science and separation processes) include brewing, wine making, fermented food and drink product manufacture, distillation, alkaloids, biodiesel, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, forensics, essential oils and water treatment.

    Opportunities for students specialising in aquaculture include working as technicians and managers on aquaculture farms, hatcheries and nurseries; for companies providing consultancy, advisory, sales and other services; and for government, research agencies and not-for-profit organisations involved in industry regulation.

    Course structure

    The Diploma of Applied Science includes four compulsory units (each at 12.5 credit points) as a core in applied science and 50 credit points of elective units.

    This unit provides a multidisciplinary introduction to the nature of science and scientific knowledge, the methods of science, and the communication of science. You will encounter perspectives on the nature and role of science in society and examine what science…

    Credit Points: 12.5

    LocationStudy periodAttendance optionsAvailable to
    OnlineSemester 1

    Key: On-campus    Off-Campus    International students    Domestic students

    This unit provides you with a solid foundation in biology, equipping you with the knowledge and skills needed to pursue careers in various biology-related fields or to continue with academic studies in further biology-focused subjects. The unit fosters critical thinking,…

    Credit Points: 12.5

    LocationStudy periodAttendance optionsAvailable to
    LauncestonSemester 1
    OnlineSemester 1

    Key: On-campus    Off-Campus    International students    Domestic students

    In this unit, you will be introduced to the concept of sustainability starting with the transformations necessary for achieving the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in a way that organises them into 6 logical groups. You will examine…

    Credit Points: 12.5

    LocationStudy periodAttendance optionsAvailable to
    OnlineSemester 1
    OnlineSemester 2
    Online5 Week Session Jan B

    Key: On-campus    Off-Campus    International students    Domestic students

    In this unit, you will acquire and apply foundational knowledge of principles and techniques that underpin applied bio-science industries. During a laboratory workshop you will apply selected techniques for monitoring, measuring, and analysing key parameters relating to biochemistry and water…

    Credit Points: 12.5

    LocationStudy periodAttendance optionsAvailable to
    HobartSemester 2
    LauncestonSemester 2
    Cradle CoastSemester 2
    OnlineSemester 2

    Key: On-campus    Off-Campus    International students    Domestic students

    Choose 50 credit points from the electives list

    We want your study experience with us to be as smooth as possible and we know that choosing from lists and lists of electives can sometimes be overwhelming!

    The guides and links below are presented to help you navigate all of these options and find the electives that are best for you.

    Find the answer to your question - ASK US

    What are electives?

    How do I enrol?

    My enrolment in the Student Portal

    Please don't hesitate to get in touch with our team at UConnect if you need any help.

    Your electives can be used to add breadth to your degree, by exploring a variety of different subject areas from across the University in areas such as Health, Business, Science and the Creative Arts. Alternatively, you can deepen your engagement with specific subject areas, for example, by completing additional units in the same discipline as your major or related fields. You can also use this space to complete an optional 2nd major which may be a 2nd major from your current course or a major from another course*. Please contact U.Connect@utas.edu.au if you need more information or if you want to add a 2nd major to your study plan. *Some exclusions apply. Not all majors can be taken by students in different courses.

    Entry requirements

    We encourage you to apply for the courses you most want to study. If you are not eligible to enter your chosen course right now, the UTAS admissions team will work with you to find the best pathway option. 

    Enquire online for advice on the application process and the available pathways to study at UTAS.

    Domestic applicants who recently completed secondary education (in the past two years)

    This course does not use ATAR as part of the admission process. To be an eligible for an offer, applicants must have completed the Tasmanian Certificate of Education (TCE) or an equivalent qualification.

    Domestic applicants with higher education study

    To be eligible for an offer, you must have:

    • Partially completed an undergraduate course at Diploma level or higher (or equivalent). You must have completed at least one unit of study (equivalent to 12.5 UTAS credit points), at 100 level or higher and which may include 100 level units completed in the UTAS Diploma of University Studies. If you have failed any units, your application may be subject to further review before an offer is made; OR
    • Completed the UTAS University Preparation Program (or an equivalent qualification offered by an Australian University).

    Domestic applicants with VET / TAFE study

    To be eligible for an offer, you must have completed a Certificate III or higher (or equivalent) in any discipline.

    Applications on the basis of work or life experience

    Applicants without senior secondary, tertiary or VET / TAFE study can complete a personal competency statement.

    Applicants may be eligible for an offer if they have relevant work and / or life experiences which demonstrate a capacity to succeed in this course.

    N/A

    You may be eligible for advanced standing (ie. credit) of up to 50 credit points if you have completed a cognate Undergraduate Certificate or similar course at this university or other approved tertiary institution. Cognate undergraduate certificate courses for Z1J Diploma of Applied Science are: Z0D Undergraduate Certificate in Agriculture, Z0L Undergraduate Certificate in Agribusiness, Z0M Undergraduate Certificate in Small Business, Z0P Undergraduate Certificate in Fermentation, Z0Q Undergraduate Certificate in Applied Technologies, Z0R Undergraduate Certificate in Equipment Design and Project Management, and Z0T Undergraduate Certificate in Science.

    Students who have completed a cognate Undergraduate Certificate to Z1J Diploma of Applied Science may articulate into Z1J Diploma of Applied Science with up 50 credit points of advanced standing. Cognate undergraduate certificate courses for Z1J Diploma of Applied Science are: Z0D Undergraduate Certificate in Agriculture, Z0L Undergraduate Certificate in Agribusiness, Z0M Undergraduate Certificate in Small Business, Z0P Undergraduate Certificate in Fermentation, Z0Q Undergraduate Certificate in Applied Technologies, Z0R Undergraduate Certificate in Equipment Design and Project Management, and Z0T Undergraduate Certificate in Science.

    Students who complete Z1J Diploma of Applied Science may articulate into a Bachelor degree with up to 100 credit points of advanced standing.

    Detailed admissions information and advice for all undergraduate courses, including comprehensive, course-level student profiles, is available from UTAS Admissions.

    Fees & scholarships

    Domestic students

    Options for this course

    Cost shouldn’t get in the way of you studying.

    If you’re a domestic student, you may be eligible for a Commonwealth Supported Place in this course. This means your fees will be subsidised by the Australian Government. You’ll only need to pay the student contribution amount for each unit you study within the course.

    You may also be able to defer payment of the student contribution amount by accessing a HECS-HELP loan from the Government. If eligible, you’ll only have to pay your tuition fees once you start earning above a specific amount.

    Further information is available at Scholarships, fees and costs.

    Student contribution

    Student contribution amounts are charged for each unit of study. This means that how much you’ll pay will depend on which units you choose. Find out more about student contribution amounts.

    Further information

    Detailed fee information for domestic students is available at Scholarships, fees and costs, including additional information in relation to the compulsory Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF).

    International students

    International students should refer to the International Students course fees page to get an indicative course cost.

    Scholarships

    Each year the University of Tasmania administers an estimated $7 million in scholarships to students from all walks of life, including those who have achieved high academic results; those from low socio-economic backgrounds; students with sporting ability; students undertaking overseas study; and students with a disability.

    For more information on scholarships and to view the full range of scholarships available to you, head to the Scholarships website.

    HECS scholarships for 2020

    Domestic students applying to study in 2020 will receive a 100% tuition fee waiver for the first 4 units and a 50% waiver for the next four.

    Additional costs

    In addition to course costs, students may be subject to other costs related to study at university including:

    How can we help?

    Do you have any questions about choosing a course or applying? Get in touch.

    Domestic
    13 8827 (13 UTAS)
    International
    +61 3 6226 6200
    Email
    Course.Info@utas.edu.au
    Online
    Online enquiries

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