Course details

Summary

The Master of Science (Research) is an internationally-recognised qualification, suitable for students who want a complete research experience, coupled with taught papers.

A core feature of the degree is the development of independent research skills, including the collection and analysis of data and critical review of the relevant literature.

The MSc(Research) normally takes two years of full-time study to complete, but you have the option to complete on a part-time basis. In the first year you will complete 120 points of taught papers with the second year spent doing a 120 point research thesis.

Study an MSc(Research) at Waikato University and you will enjoy more lab and field work, more one-on-one time with top academics and access to world-class research equipment. Our great industry contacts will also mean exciting collaborations with local, national and international companies and organisations.

Environmental Sciences

The pressure on our environment is increasing as the human population grows. Environmental Sciences provide a basis for understanding environmental problems, and finding solutions to them.

Environmental Sciences is the interdisciplinary study of the environment and how we manage it. It draws on all the sciences, particularly ecology and earth sciences.

There is growing recognition, at local and global levels, of the need to manage our soil, ecological, marine, mineral and energy resources in a sustainable manner. As an environmental scientist or technician, you'll have the chance to become directly involved in the effective management of these precious resources.

If you decide to major in Environmental Sciences at the University of Waikato, you'll take a range of papers from across the biological, chemical and Earth sciences, giving you a broad base on which to build your career.

Environmental Microbiology

You will learn about the important role micro-organisms play in underpinning environmental processes, from recycling nutrients to bioremediation of contaminated sites.

Environmental Modelling

Learn to use computer models to understand and predict changes in a range of environments such as estuaries, lakes, rivers, coastlines, climate, and the ocean.

Land and Freshwater Environments

Discover the importance of the sustainable management of soil and water resources for human survival, biodiversity and wider ecological values.

Marine Sciences

Explore marine organisms and the sustainable management of marine environments, including processes such as the effects of coastal erosion and sedimentation.

Career opportunities

• Agricultural Adviser
• Biosecurity Officer
• Coastal Resource Manager
• Consent Planner
• Environmental Analyst
• Environmental Scientist
• Hydrologist
• Oceanographer
• Water Resource Manager

Entry criteria

Admission requires a relevant Bachelors level qualification or equivalent.

If you do not hold the appropriate qualifications required for direct entry, you may be eligible to apply for a pathway via a Postgraduate Certificate or Diploma.

English language requirements:

IELTS - 6.5 overall (no less than 6.0 in writing); iBT (internet based TOFEL) - 90 with a score of 22 in writing; Pearson PTE Academic- 65 with English language requirements no less than 58 for each communicative skill; From Waikato Pathways College - Successful completion of Level 8 with a B grade average in the Certificate of Attainment in Academic (CAAE) programme.