Ecology and Biodiversity students explore the biology and diversity of plants, animals and micro-organism on the earth and the interactions between them and their physical environments. Marine Biology examines similar areas with a focus on marine life, marine ecology and resources.

Students from both programmes explore the impacts of evolution and global changes such as climate change and human behaviour. They gain technical skills in quantitative research using statistical methods to interpret complex ecological data and develop skills in creative research design, project planning and coordination. Their interpersonal and communication skills are strengthened from activities such as group field trips and presentations.

Roles and career pathways

Marine Biology, Ecology and Biodiversity graduates work in a wide range of roles that have a connection to plants, animals and the environment.

Scientific roles for graduates with an undergraduate degree could include jobs as a science officer, aquaculture technician, science or biology tutors, research assistant, assistant advisor, junior analyst, volunteer coordinator, weed control officer, project administrator, pest control officer, field officer, data administrator or junior laboratory technician.

The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) employs graduates as biosecurity officers and detector dog handlers to work on the borders at airports and shipping ports. New Zealand Customs Service employs customs officers to work at places of international arrival. Graduates may also work in fisheries management as fisheries analysts, fisheries officers and in volunteer roles as fisheries observers.

Postgraduate study such as a postgraduate diploma, Honours or Master’s degree is recommended for many scientific roles in government departments or crown research institutes. These include science advisor, science policy analyst, research analyst, science or community programme manager, project coordinator, data analyst, statistical analyst or research adviser.

There are limited opportunities for ecologists or marine biologists in New Zealand and they would normally require study at Master’s or PhD level and relevant local and overseas experience.

Complementary study in Statistics, Mathematics, GIS Science or Data Science increase graduates’ quantitative data skillset which employers value highly for ecological work. Study in Geography, Development Studies or Environmental Studies can broaden employment opportunities for graduates in areas such as sustainability or agriculture. Marketing, Māori Resource Management, Science in Society, Science Communication, Social Policy or Public Policy can increase graduates' skills and opportunities for work in community engagement and policy development.

Marine Biology, Ecology and Biodiversity graduates, who also study a second teachable subject, and complete a secondary school teaching qualification, can work as secondary school Biology or general science teachers. They can also complete limited entry postgraduate study to enter primary or early childhood teaching. For more information see Teaching or the Wellington Faculty of Education.

Marine Biology, Ecology and Biodiversity graduates work across the public sector in large government departments, city and regional councils and science-based research institutes. They can also work for private companies such science and research facilities, medical research and corporate fisheries companies. Recent graduates have worked in organisations such as:

• Victoria University of Wellington
• Ministry for Primary Industries
• Ministry for the Environment
• Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE)
• Zealandia
• Wellington Zoo
• Stats NZ
• Department of Conservation

Part-time work and volunteering during study all help to increase your job prospects when you graduate. Programmes such as Wellington Plus and Wellington International Leadership Programme (WILP) offer opportunities to gain diverse volunteer and leadership experience. Getting involved with  Conservation Volunteers and local organisations like Zealandia, Forest and Bird, WWF, a suburban ecological restoration programme or the student-led club The Society for Conservation Biology - Victoria University of Wellington offer chances to meet like-minded people and gain new skills. Gaining research experience or lab demonstrator or lab assistant work at the university while studying is also highly beneficial. Limited science summer internships are offered at Crown Research Institutes (CRIs) which are advertised on Science New Zealand’s website .

Making connections with individuals and groups during your degree can help you learn more about career and networking opportunities.

The Environment and Conservation organisations of Aotearoa New Zealand (ECO) is an umbrella organisation for a range of New Zealand organisations and they engage with interested people via social media, newsletters and events. The School of Biological Sciences hosts the Centre for Biodiversity and Restoration Ecology and the Coastal Ecology Laboratory in Island Bay which also offer students opportunities to network, learn and get involved in post-graduate research.Wellington Chamber of Commerce and Wellington Young Professionals offer various events and opportunities for networking.

The Alumni as Mentors programme for final-year students also enhances your connections and employability while studying.