Many of New Zealand’s primary industries have an undeniable impact on the environment—agriculture, mining, forestry and fisheries all leave their mark on the planet we live on. Introduced predators pose threats to native wildlife and ecosystems.

As a Master of Environmental Science student you’ll have the opportunity to spend time on the ground, conducting fieldwork like monitoring the quality of waterways, soil, or air. Gain an understanding of the tools and techniques that can help mitigate the human impact on the environment. And learn to analyse complex data sets, draw conclusions, and communicate scientific results to effect policy and regulatory change.

You’ll be working with some of New Zealand’s top researchers in the field. It’s an opportunity to develop professional links and networks, providing a pathway to both employment and further research.

Environmental Science is taught in the School of Geography, Environmental and Earth Sciences. Take advantage of the School’s breadth and depth of knowledge, and learn from world-renowned academic staff.

The expert knowledge of Environmental Science staff is supplemented by colleagues from across the Wellington Faculty of Science, including specialists from the Antarctic Research Centre and the Climate Change Research Institute.

Wellington is the ideal place for students to see environmental science in action, being surrounded by a diverse natural environment while also being the home of government.

The Master of Environmental Science programme involves close interaction with city and regional councils as well as Zealandia eco-sanctuary, MetService, GNS Science, NIWA, and many other organisations. If you choose to study the Environmental Science Placement and Project course, you will have the chance to spend eight weeks working with an organisation in the field of environmental science.

Environmental Science is an area of strategic opportunity for New Zealand. There is an increasing need for scientifically trained graduates able to influence environmental decision-making, and to facilitate the science–policy–practice nexus throughout government, private and community sectors.

Postgraduate study at Victoria University of Wellington will help you build valuable relationships and networks with peers, University staff and future colleagues. You'll have opportunities to attend events, seminars, workshops and social functions.

The Postgraduate Students' Association can also give you information on study at the University and provides a voice for you on campus.