Course Overview
Study the Master of Applied Science (Biodiversity Management) full time, or part-time, and take hold of a meaningful career.
With a focus on looking after our whenua, this course will equip you with specialised knowledge to become a leader in your field.
During your studies, you will be encouraged to be innovative and undertake research to elicit change.
Benefit from a network of industry experts and community groups, where graduates will be well-equipped to solve a range of environmental issues.
This course is delivered in partnership with Unitec.
Upon successfully completing the requirements you'll receive the award of:
- Master of Applied Science (Biodiversity Management): Tāhuhu Pūtaiao
| Locations | Rotorua |
|---|---|
| Next intake | Jul 2026 View more details |
| Study options |
1.5 years full-time, including holidays (if applicable) Part-time study available |
| Total credits | 180 |
| StudyLink assistance | Available |
| Indicative Fees | $12,991 for domestic students View full fees information |
| Eligibility | View entry criteria |
| Timetable | On campus days vary throughout semesters |
To see the information for international students change your location using the button at the top right of the screen.
Career opportunities
- Environmental or Biosecurity Consultant
- Environmental Advisor for Business
- Biodiversity or Biosecurity Policy Analyst
- Biodiversity or Conservation Advisor
- Ecologist
- Geospatial and Land-Use Specialist
- Taxonomist
- Research, Laboratory or Field Technician
- Programme Manager
- Project Manager
- Project Coordinator
Course Fees
| Indicative Fees * | $12,991 for domestic students |
|---|
*Please note, fees for our 2027 intakes are yet to be confirmed. Once they are, we will update our website to reflect the new 2027 fee amount.
Your final fee may vary if:
- you have a choice of topics/papers to study
- the qualification excludes GST
- there are extra course materials to purchase
- student levies apply
We’ll let you know if any of these apply to you.
* Important fee information, and hints and tips
Help with fees
Are you Eligible for Free Fees?
There are several ways to take advantage of free study at Toi Ohomai. Find out how on our Fees Free FAQ page.
Student Loans and Allowances
This course meets the requirements for student allowance and student loan applications through StudyLink.
- A student loan helps to pay for your course fees (the compulsory fees), study materials e.g. books, equipment, and living costs. You'll have to pay this money back.
- A student allowance is a weekly payment that can help with your living expenses while you're studying. You don't have to pay the money back.
Find out more and apply at studylink.govt.nz
Scholarships
Scholarships are one way you might be able to get some financial help. Any scholarships specifically related to this course are shown below, otherwise check out the full list of scholarships promoted by Toi Ohomai.
Course Entry Information
Entry criteria
To be admitted to this course, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Requirements for either general admission, special admission/discretionary admission, or any additional Programme specific requirements
- English language requirements
- Access to a computer and internet access
Whakaurunga Whānui | General Admission
To be admitted to this course, applicants must meet the following requirements:
Domestic Applicants
- A recognised Bachelor's degree (or higher) in a relevant discipline with a grade average of B- or higher; OR
- A professional qualification in a relevant discipline, recognised as being equivalent to a bachelor's degree or equivalent; AND
- Evidence of English language competency.
- Provide a Statement of Purpose (500–1000 words) outlining your academic background, relevant experiences, research interests, and motivations for applying for this programme. Interviews may be conducted to ascertain candidate suitability.
International Applicants
- A recognised Bachelor's degree (or higher) in a relevant discipline with a grade average of B- or higher; OR
- Evidence of English language competency.
- Provide a Statement of Purpose (500–1000 words) outlining your academic background, relevant experiences, research interests, and motivations for applying for this programme. Interviews may be conducted to ascertain candidate suitability.
Whakaurunga Motuhake | Special Admission
Domestic Applicants
Applicants must have:
- Attained the age of 20 years on or before the first day of the semester in which study for the course is to commence; AND
- Provide sufficient evidence of aptitude or appropriate work or other life experience that would indicate a successful outcome in the qualification. Evidence as per below should be included in the application:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) containing details of any work experience, previous study, and/or other relevant activities.
- Academic transcripts of tertiary-level qualifications achieved by the applicant.
- Evidence of English language competency where English is not a first language.
- Provide a Statement of Purpose (500–1000 words) outlining your academic background, relevant experiences, research interests, and motivations for applying for this programme.
- A minimum of 3 years work experience in related field. Evidence includes work contract/s.
- Two written work references.
Whakaurunga Tautui | Programme Specific Requirements
There are no course specific requirements.
Standard Entry Criteria
Admission, entry, selection, and enrolment into programmes will be in accordance with the Academic Regulations and/or, where approved, specific programme regulations.
English language requirements
Whakaurunga Reo Pākehā | English Language Admission Requirements
Domestic Applicants
Must have achieved the minimum requirement to go to a New Zealand University or equivalent.
International Applicants
International applicants must also meet the English Language Entry Requirements as stated by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority | Mana Tohu Matauranga O Aotearoa.
Return to course overview
Course Locations and Intake Information
| Location | Campus | Start Date | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rotorua | Mokoia Campus | 20 Jul 2026 | |
| Rotorua | Mokoia Campus | 22 Feb 2027 |
Study options
- 1.5 years full-time, including holidays (if applicable)
- Part-time study available
