Bachelor of Science - Plant Science

Join the Bachelor of Science (Plant Science) at Massey - the only university in New Zealand where you can study and specialise in the full spectrum of plant science from molecular biology and evolution right through to agriculture and horticulture. Nearly all life on Earth is ultimately dependent on the primary productivity of plants. The study of plants is a fascinating investigation of the history of life, the natural world and the future of life on Earth. The Bachelor of Science (Plant Science) will help you understand the crucial biological processes that underpin the very basis of life on Earth. Studying plant science will give you a solid understanding of the fundamental elements of the structure and function of plants, how plants grow and interact with their environment, and how to apply this knowledge in both natural and managed ecosystems. Our proud record dates back to 1927 when we offered New Zealand’s first degrees in agriculture and horticulture. As a student, you will benefit from our internationally-recognised capability and leadership in this area. Massey has over 50 years’ experience in plant-based sciences and has the largest number of plant scientists of any New Zealand university. We have decades of experience and consistently revise our courses overtime to remain strategic for today’s employment opportunities.

All students must meet university entrance requirements to be admitted to the University. To be admitted to an undergraduate qualification, you will need a minimum level of academic achievement from school, or another university or tertiary institution.

Specific requirements

There are no specific entry requirements for this qualification, outside of university admission regulations. However there is some expected background knowledge.

Expected high school preparation

Knowledge gained in the following NCEA subject (or the equivalent in Cambridge International Examinations, International Baccalaureate, or similar) will give you the expected background knowledge to take this major. However, if you have not studied this subject we have a pathway for you to progress to your major (see below).

At least 14 credits in NCEA Level 3 Biology

The following pathways will get you prepared to study this major. If you have not studied NCEA Level 3 Biology (or equivalent) take the following course first:

162103 Introductory Biology

This course is available in the summer semester and will count towards credits in your degree.

International English Language Requirements:

• IELTS - 6.0 overall and minimum 5.5 in each band
• TOEFL iBT - Overall score 80, minimum 19 in Writing
• Cambridge English - B2 First, or B2 First for schools, or C1 Advanced, or C2 Proficiency with a score of 169. No less than 162 in each skill.
• NCEL - Level 4 (Academic)
• PTE - 50 overall and minimum 42 in each communicative skills
• LanguageCert - C1 Expert IESOL (LRWS) with PASS and no less than Pass in each skill