Master of Applied Science (Biodiversity Management)

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Locations and dates

Nelson:

22 February 2027

Full-time intake (180 credits)

22 February 2027

Thesis intake (120 credits): For those who have completed the Postgraduate Diploma in Sustainable Aquaculture qualification
Length

48 teaching weeks plus 9 study break weeks
Total credits

180
Fees

2027: TBC

A Student Service Fee applies (2026; $2.50 per credit).

Fees listed are for each year of the programme, indicative only and may vary with course selection.

View course details for individual fees.
National qualification code

4824

Take your sustainable aquaculture expertise to the next level with advanced research that makes a real difference to industry and the environment.

Jamie Bellamy 1 Column 705x470px — Jamie Bellamy – also an NMIT technician has passed her Master of Applied Science (Biodiversity Management) with distinction.

The Master of Applied Science (Biodiversity Management) provides an opportunity to deepen your knowledge while investigating real-world challenges facing New Zealand's aquaculture sector.

Directly Enrol

Directly enrol in the 180-credit Master of Applied Science (Biodiversity Management). In your first semester, you will complete four prescribed 15-credit courses covering research methods, stakeholder engagement, marine ecosystems and biosecurity, before progressing to a substantial independent research project (120-credit thesis).

Pathway from the Postgraduate Diploma in Sustainable Aquaculture

Alternatively, if you have already completed the Postgraduate Diploma in Sustainable Aquaculture, you may progress directly into the 120-credit thesis component of the master's degree.

You'll gain the skills to shape the future of aquaculture

The Master's research thesis enables you to contribute new knowledge to the industry while developing advanced research, analytical and leadership skills for careers in consultancy, management, industry leadership or further academic study.

Guided by experienced supervisors, including Dr Mark Burdass, Dr Sobhan R. Akhavan, and Dr Anja Studer, you'll develop advanced research skills while exploring topics that support sustainable food production, healthy marine ecosystems, and the future of aquaculture in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Advance your expertise through independent, industry-relevant research.
Investigate real-world challenges that support a more sustainable aquaculture sector.
Work alongside experienced researchers and industry professionals.
Develop advanced research, leadership and scientific communication skills.
Build valuable connections across New Zealand's aquaculture industry.
Open doors to senior leadership, consultancy, research and doctoral study.

Learn through applied research

This Master's is designed for graduates who want to investigate complex issues and create practical solutions for industry.

Working alongside your academic supervisors, you'll identify a research topic aligned with your interests and career aspirations. Your project may explore areas such as sustainable aquaculture practices, marine biodiversity, aquatic ecosystem management, biosecurity, shellfish or finfish production, environmental monitoring, or emerging challenges facing the sector.

Throughout your research you'll develop the ability to

Design and manage independent research projects
Critically analyse scientific literature and data
Apply advanced research methodologies
Communicate complex findings to academic and industry audiences
Contribute to sustainable environmental and aquaculture management.

Industry-connected learning

NMIT has a long-standing reputation for aquaculture education and strong relationships with industry throughout Te Tauihu.

You'll benefit from learning within a region recognised internationally for marine farming and seafood production, with opportunities to undertake research that reflects current industry priorities. Our specialised aquaculture learning spaces and industry connections support research that is practical, relevant and future focused.

Career opportunities

Entry Requirements

This programme is intended for graduates who have successfully graduated the NMIT Postgraduate Diploma in Sustainable Aquaculture(external link), or an equivalent qualification that meets the programme's entry requirements.

General admission

To be admitted to this programme all applicants must meet the following requirements:

A recognised bachelor’s degree (or higher) in a relevant discipline with merit achievement deemed to
be a grade average of B- or higher; or
A professional qualification in a relevant discipline, recognised as being equivalent to merit
achievement in a bachelor’s degree or equivalent; or

Special admission

Applicants must have:

Attained the age of 20 years on or before the first day of the semester in which study for the
programme is to commence; and
Provided sufficient evidence of aptitude or appropriate work or other life experience that would
indicate a successful outcome in the qualification.

English language requirements

Domestic applicants must have achieved a minimum standard of English as demonstrated by a minimum
of 8 credits at NCEA Level 2 in English (4 in Reading, 4 in Writing) or equivalent.

A test or qualification listed is an acceptable alternative by NZQA English Language Proficiency Outcomes.(external link)

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