Why Study "Master of Applied Science"

The Master of Applied Science at Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology is a Level 9 postgraduate qualification focused on Biodiversity Management and applied environmental science. The programme combines advanced scientific knowledge, applied research, field-based learning and engagement with industry, government, Maori and community organisations. It is designed for students who want to develop specialist expertise and undertake independent research addressing real-world environmental and biodiversity challenges. The programme is delivered in partnership with Unitec and is based at the Mokoia Campus in Rotorua.

• Level of study: NZQF Level 9, Master's degree
• Qualification: Master of Applied Science (Biodiversity Management)
• Campus: Mokoia Campus, Rotorua
• Mode: Primarily campus-based/onsite study with practical and field-based learning; part-time study is also available
• Duration: 1.5 years full-time, including holidays where applicable
• Total credits: 180 credits
• Partnership: Delivered in partnership with Unitec
• Next intake: 22 February 2027
• Additional 2027 intake: 19 July 2027

Key Benefits

The programme is particularly suitable for students interested in biodiversity, conservation, environmental management, biosecurity and ecological research. Its applied approach allows students to connect academic research with practical environmental issues and professional practice.

• Develop advanced technical and research skills in applied science.
• Gain experience with environmental monitoring and biodiversity-related research.
• Learn to work collaboratively with government, industry, community organisations and Maori stakeholders.
• Develop skills in data analysis, research methods, problem-solving and independent research.
• Apply scientific knowledge alongside matauranga Maori and an understanding of Te Ao Maori and Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
• Build experience that can support careers in environmental consulting, conservation, biosecurity, policy and research.
• Students can undertake research connected to an existing area of employment or personal academic interest.

Program Structure

Students complete 180 credits, consisting of 60 credits of Level 8 compulsory coursework followed by a 120-credit Level 9 research thesis. The thesis provides an opportunity to conduct an independent applied research project over the later stage of the programme.

• NSCI 8001 Partnership & Stakeholder Engagement – 15 credits
• NSCI 8002 Applied Research Methods – 15 credits
• NSCI 8003 Biosecurity: Strategy & Implementation – 15 credits
• NSCI 8007 Environmental Monitoring – 15 credits
• NSCI 9001 Research Thesis – 120 credits
• Timetable currently listed: Monday to Wednesday, 9:00 am–4:00 pm; timetable is subject to change.

Discipline / Specialisation

The current Master of Applied Science offering is specialised in Biodiversity Management, with a strong environmental science focus.

Key areas include:

• Biodiversity management and conservation
• Environmental management
• Ecology
• Biosecurity
• Environmental monitoring
• Applied environmental research
• Ecological science
• Sustainability
• Geospatial and land-use applications
• Maori and Indigenous approaches to environmental stewardship

Programme Highlights

• 180-credit Level 9 Master's qualification.
• 1.5-year full-time study option, with part-time study available.
• Research-focused programme with a substantial 120-credit thesis.
• Practical environmental monitoring experience.
• Opportunities to work with industry experts and community organisations.
• Strong focus on solving contemporary environmental and biodiversity issues.
• Research can potentially be aligned with the student's existing employment or area of interest.
• Study location is Rotorua, providing access to an environment strongly connected with conservation, biodiversity and environmental research.
• The programme is designed to develop graduates capable of applying advanced knowledge, conducting independent research and contributing to innovation and improved environmental practice.

Career Outcomes

Graduates can use the advanced research, environmental management and biodiversity skills developed through the programme in a range of environmental and science-related roles.

Potential career areas include:

• Environmental or Biosecurity Consultant
• Environmental Advisor for Business
• Biodiversity or Biosecurity Policy Analyst
• Biodiversity or Conservation Advisor
• Ecologist
• Geospatial and Land-Use Specialist
• Taxonomist
• Research, Laboratory or Field Technician
• Programme Manager
• Project Manager
• Project Coordinator

The qualification can also provide a pathway towards further research study, depending on the graduate's academic background, research interests and admission requirements of the subsequent institution.

Visa Requirements (International Students)

International students studying this full-time Master's programme in New Zealand will generally require a Fee Paying Student Visa. Students need an offer of place from an approved education provider and must demonstrate that they can pay their tuition fees and support themselves financially while in New Zealand.

Key requirements include:

• Valid offer of place from the education provider.
• Evidence of tuition-fee payment or sufficient funds to pay tuition fees.
• Evidence of sufficient living funds. For tertiary study of one year or longer, Immigration New Zealand currently specifies NZD $20,000 per year for living costs.
• Acceptable medical and travel insurance for the period of study.
• Evidence of a genuine intention to study and meet visa conditions.
• Evidence of onward travel or sufficient funds to purchase an onward ticket.
• Passport and other required identity documents.
• Medical or police certificates where required by Immigration New Zealand.
• International students should apply sufficiently early because visa processing times can vary.

The Fee Paying Student Visa can allow eligible students to work part-time up to 25 hours per week during study and full-time during holidays, depending on the conditions attached to their individual visa.

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

• The latest Toi Ohomai course page was updated on 16 September 2026.
• The next listed intake is 22 February 2027 at Mokoia Campus, Rotorua, with another intake scheduled for 19 July 2027.
• International tuition is currently listed at NZD $42,480 in Toi Ohomai's international course list.
• International applicants generally require a recognised Bachelor's degree or higher in a relevant discipline with a B- or higher grade average.
• Relevant backgrounds may include Science, Biology, Chemistry, Economics, Environmental Science, Zoology, Ecology, Botany, Conservation Biology and Sustainability Management. Applicants from a slightly different discipline may need to provide evidence of relevant work history.
• Applicants must submit a 500–1,000 word Statement of Purpose covering their academic background, relevant experience, research interests and motivation. An interview may also be conducted to assess suitability.
• Under the special-admission route, applicants must generally be at least 20 years old by the first day of the semester, demonstrate suitable aptitude or relevant experience, provide academic records and a CV, have at least three years of relevant work experience and provide two written work references.
• International applicants must meet the applicable English-language requirements. Toi Ohomai's current Level 9 information specifies IELTS Academic 6.5 overall with no band below 6.0, or an accepted equivalent.
• Applicants need access to a computer and internet.
• There are currently no additional programme-specific requirements listed beyond the stated admission and English-language requirements.