Course details

Summary

The Master of Environmental Sciences is intended for both science and engineering graduates who wish to further their knowledge and research skills in the area of Environmental Sciences the scientific study of the interaction between humans and the environment.

The Master of Environmental Sciences (MEnvSci) is a 180 point interdisciplinary degree that draws on a wide range of papers across the Biological, Chemical, Earth and Engineering Sciences.

A key feature of this degree is the development of scientific and interdisciplinary (cross-faculty) research skills, including collection and analysis of data and critical review of the relevant literature.

The MEnvSci is normally a 12-18 month degree comprising a minimum of 90 points in taught papers at 500 level and a maximum 90 point thesis. The balance of thesis papers to taught papers may be altered subject to permission from the graduate co-ordinator in your discipline of choice.

Study an MEnvSci 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 may also mean exciting collaborations with local, national and international companies and organisations.

Build a successful career

Depending on the major completed and your particular interests, graduates of this degree may find employment in a range of science-related industries, including local and regional councils, Crown Research Institutes, energy companies, environmental agencies, government departments, environmental consulting companies, private research companies, universities, food and dairy industries and agriculture and fisheries industries.

Career opportunities

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

Degree structure:

The degree normally takes 12-18 months (full-time) to complete and requires 180 points, comprising 90 points of taught papers and a maximum 90 point thesis. The proportions of points divided between papers and thesis or dissertation/directed study are tailorable like the 180 point MSc degree, as long as 40 points minimum in the degree is taken up by papers associated with research activity (e.g. thesis or dissertation) and research methodology.

Entry criteria

Admission requires a relevant Bachelors level qualification or equivalent. Once you have applied to study with us you are welcome to speak with one of our senior academics who will help advise you on your studies based on your goals and previous experience.

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.