Programme overview
The world is changing rapidly. Climate disruption is happening faster than animals, plants, and human communities can adapt – unless we take extraordinary action. To lead the charge, Aotearoa, New Zealand needs biodiversity professionals who think innovatively, take action, and move seamlessly from the lab into the field.
The Master of Applied Science (Biodiversity Management) is a programme of study that will allow you to choose the knowledge and skills you need to develop and advance your career. At completion you will gain high-level analytical and strategic competency and undertake impactful research that contributes directly to your work and the wider industry while working on the ground to refine your practical field-based skills.
Highlights
- Lead through meaningful research: Drive innovation by undertaking a high-level thesis or industry-based project. With the support of expert supervisors, you’ll solve real-world problems, build independent research capabilities, and potentially secure funding for projects that directly impact the sector.
- Master cross-cultural collaboration: Go beyond theory by integrating Western science with Mātauranga Māori. You’ll develop the advanced skills needed to work alongside mana whenua, iwi, and hapū, creating holistic solutions for Aotearoa’s unique environmental challenges.
- Strategic stakeholder engagement: Hone your ability to navigate complex relationships with policymakers, landowners, and environmental managers. This programme focuses on the high-level communication and partnership skills required to drive successful outcomes for both people and the land.
- National expert network: Connect with a prestigious network of scientists, industry leaders, and consultants from across Aotearoa. Through guest lectures and collaborative projects, you’ll gain direct insights into the cutting edge of biodiversity management.
- Advanced technical & field mastery: Access specialised national facilities, from molecular biology and GIS labs to herbaria and marae. You’ll master professional-grade equipment and machinery, ensuring you are field-ready for senior scientific or management roles.
- Designed for professionals: Our flexible, blended learning model, combining online delivery with on-campus blocks, allows you to pursue a Master’s degree without pausing your career. It’s the ideal way to “earn and learn” while reaching the top of your field.
What you’ll learn
- You will develop the high-level analytical skills required to investigate the sophisticated challenges of human impact on the environment and design robust, evidence-based solutions through independent research.
- You will develop a deep, critical application of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and Te Ao Māori principles, learning to authentically integrate indigenous knowledge systems with Western science to lead conservation efforts in Aotearoa.
- You’ll learn to lead collaboration between government agencies, iwi, and landowners, developing the sophisticated communication and negotiation skills needed to manage high-stakes stakeholder relationships effectively.
- You will learn how to translate advanced theory and insights from national experts into practical improvements for industry and community stakeholders.
- You will master the use of specialised lab and field equipment—from molecular biology to GIS—ensuring you have the professional-grade proficiency required for senior scientific or environmental management roles.
- Through deep critical analysis, you’ll be equipped to lead the implementation of forward-thinking environmental practices that align with both professional standards and global conservation goals.
Scholarships and awards
At Unitec, we want to manaaki student success wherever we can, and scholarships are one of the ways we do that. We have scholarships that recognise the achievements and the challenges of dedicating yourself to learning, whether in vocational trade, at the undergraduate level, or the master’s degree level and beyond. Check out the scholarships listed below;
- Check out the Master of Applied Science (Biodiversity Management) Scholarships we have on offer or have a chat with our Scholarship Advisor- Postgraduate Scholarships.
- View all other scholarships
The filters under Award Types, Characteristics, and Status will help refine your search. If you have questions, please email our Scholarships team or book in with a Scholarships advisor.
Unitec’s learning facilities
Applied Molecular Solutions Lab
If you’re interested in the genetics of animals, plants, and fungi, this lab is fully equipped for DNA extraction and analysis.
Some fascinating research projects include DNA barcoding of possible biological control agents, bioremediation of contaminated soils, and molecular analysis of seabird diets.
GIS Laboratory
Where science meets tech, the GIS Laboratory has 40 workstations with industry-standard ArcGIS and associated software.
Using high-performance Graphics Processing Units on Virtual Device Interfaces with large 24-inch monitors, these computers can run realistic 3D modelling, spatial analysis, image rendering, and other computing-intensive tasks.
The Herbarium
With a collection of 11,500 scientifically preserved plants, fungi, lichens, and seaweeds, the Herbarium is where you’ll learn about plant specimen collection and preparation techniques.
The Herbarium supports essential research, including investigations into invasive and native plants and fungi and an active lichen research group’s studies.
There’s also the opportunity to assist with accessioning and curation as a volunteer.
Admission requirements
What you will need to study this programme.
Domestic students
Academic requirements
You must have completed at least one of the following:
- A recognised bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline with merit (an average grade of B- or higher; Or
- A professional qualification in a relevant discipline recognised as equivalent to merit in a bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
- University Entrance Literacy: 8 credits at Level 2 or above in English or Māori (4 in Reading, 4 in Writing); or
- Evidence of English language proficiency as outlined in the NZQA Rules on the Unitec English Language Requirements for International Students Web-page.
Don’t meet these Academic requirements?
- If you don’t meet the academic criteria, our Bridging Education Programmes can help you qualify. Simply apply online, and we’ll discuss your next steps.
- If you don’t meet the above criteria, special or discretionary admission may apply
For more information, download the programme regulations
International students
Courses and timetables
For more details on the courses including timetables, please click on the course names below.
Debug
| Courses | Credits | Aim |
|---|---|---|
| Partnership and Stakeholder Engagement(NSCI8001TP) | 15.0 credits (0.125 EFTS) | Learners in this course develop the knowledge, skills and cultural competencies to authentically engage with Maori, Moriori, indigenous peoples elsewhere in the world, and other stakeholders. They do this by exploring stakeholders’ cultures and value systems, critically evaluating their own values, creating and enacting a plan for engagement and reflecting on their experiences. |
| Applied Research Methods(NSCI8002TP) | 15.0 credits (0.125 EFTS) | The aim of this course is to build skills to undertake a hypothesis driven applied research project based on review of previous knowledge around the student’s chosen research topic. |
