Master of Applied Science (Biodiversity Management)

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.

Career Options

• Biodiversity or biosecurity policy analyst
• Biodiversity or conservation advisor
• Ecologist
• Environmental advisor for business
• Environmental or biosecurity consultant
• Geospatial and land-use specialist
• Programme or project manager
• Project coordinator
• Research, laboratory or field technician
• Taxonomist

Annual Tuition Fees

Domestic/NZ students

$8,700

(Approximate fees only - includes GST but excludes the Compulsory Student Services Fee (CSSF) levy. Your final study costs depends on a number of factors including the courses you select to study. View options for funding your study and fees-free eligibility)

International students

$30,415 (NZD) (approximate fees for 120 credits) Save upto $2,500 (NZD) with Unitec International Study Grant 2026.Terms and conditions apply.

Semester Dates

Sem 1 2026: 23 Feb – 28 Jun

Sem 2 2026: 20 Jul – 22 Nov

For course and class timings, refer to the specific course webpage.

For StudyLink purposes, please ensure your application states your earliest course start date.

For course and class schedules, please refer to the specific course webpage. Courses may start in Semester 1 or Semester 2; however, not all courses are offered in both semesters.

For StudyLink purposes, please ensure your application states your earliest course start date.

Downloads and resources

Programme regulations - Master of Applied Science (Biodiversity Management) Student regulations Order a personalised brochure Scholarships and awardsStudent LifeFor Māori studentsFor Pacific studentsFor International students