Bachelor of Applied Science (Biodiversity Management)
Course details
| NZQF Level | 7 |
|---|
About the course
As a biodiversity management student, you’ll explore how ecosystems function and support biological diversity, and how managers of biodiversity are responding to increasing concern over the impact of human activities on the planet.
Find out how society views and influences the natural environment, discover how social, cultural, and policy frameworks influence management decisions, and develop plant identification knowledge and skills.
You’ll also develop an appreciation of the influence that government agencies, non-statutory organisations, and voluntary bodies have on biodiversity and biosecurity.
Highlights
- Developed in response to increasing global concerns over the human impact on our natural environment
- Emphasis on practical application: possible work experience in applied settings for organisations like the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI), Department of Conservation (DOC), the Auckland Council, or volunteer organisations
- A chance to complete a research project in an area of your own interest to develop the skills you’ll need for a career in your chosen field
- One of our biggest strengths is plant identification, a skill well-regarded by the conservation industry. We’ll help you develop your knowledge and confidence in plant identification.
- A teaching team of highly qualified and respected scientists and industry consultants, including botanists and an ornithologist
Double major
Can’t decide between animals or the environment? Study a double major, and you’ll get the best of both worlds with a selection of animal- and environment-related courses.
Studying for a double major is highly recommended. Double majors further grow your knowledge and capabilities, making you more employable and competitive in the job market.
Where from here
Upon completing this programme, you can go on to further study in Master of Applied Science (Biodiversity Management)
Career Options
- Biosecurity officer
- Conservation manager
- Ecology consultant
- Environmental officer
- Geographic information systems (GIS) analyst
- MPI quarantine officer
- Regional parks manager
Annual Tuition Fees
Domestic/NZ students
$8,000
(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
$26,415 (NZD) (approximate fees for 120 credits) Save upto $2,000 (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 timings, refer to the specific course webpage.
For StudyLink purposes, please ensure your application states your earliest course start date.
New Masters of Applied Science Programme in Biodiversity Management launches
Downloads and resources
Programme regulations - Bachelor of Applied Science (Biodiversity Management) Order a personalised brochure Scholarships and awardsStudent LifeFor Māori studentsFor Pacific studentsFor International students
Entry requirements
You must have completed at least one of the following:
- Successful completion of New Zealand Certificate in Animal Care – Companion Animals
- A minimum of 42 credits at NCEA Level 3 or higher on the National Qualifications Framework, with:
- 14 credits at Level 3 or higher in each of two subjects (Biology, Chemistry, Maths and Statistics), with;
- a further 14 credits at Level 3 or higher taken from no more than two additional domains on the National Qualifications Framework or plus;
- a minimum of 14 credits at Level 1 or higher in Mathematics or Pangarau on the National Qualifications Framework, plus
- 8 credits at Level 2 or higher in English or Te Reo Māori (a minimum of 4 credits must be in Reading and a minimum of 4 credits must be in Writing);
- At least 3 ‘C’ passes in the New Zealand University Bursaries Examinations;
And meet one of the English entry requirements;
- 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; your eligibility will be determined at the interview.
About the provider
Unitec is New Zealand’s largest institute of technology offering a wide range of work-oriented programmes and short courses. We offer leading employment-focused education at our two campuses in Mt. Albert, and Waitākere. At Unitec we think the traditional view of spending hours in a lecture theatre is out-dated. And that's why we approach learning differently. With our unique combination of world-class theory and hands-on experience, you'll get the skills to meet the changing needs of employers. And because our tutors are industry-based, they know what it takes to make it in the real world. We offer a friendly and diverse learning environment with flexible study programmes, lots of support, and hands-on experience to build the skills you need for your career and your future.