Victoria University of Wellington

Overview

The Master of Marine Conservation at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington equips students with advanced knowledge of marine ecosystems and practical skills essential for their protection. This program emphasizes the importance of marine biodiversity and conservation practices, preparing graduates for diverse roles in research, policy-making, and fieldwork.

What you'll study

This program combines core marine science principles with hands-on conservation practices. Students will explore marine biodiversity, conservation planning, and evidence-based management through case studies from New Zealand and the broader Indo-Pacific region.

Typical course components

• Core marine conservation and ecology courses that cover marine biodiversity, ecological principles, and foundational conservation concepts.
• Applied conservation practice focusing on planning, implementing, and evaluating conservation initiatives.
• Regional and comparative case studies utilizing examples from New Zealand and the wider Indo-Pacific area.
• Capstone or research component to consolidate learning through applied projects or research assessments.

Example courses (indicative)

• Principles of Marine Conservation
• Marine Biodiversity and Ecology
• Marine Ecology
• Tropical Marine Conservation Practice

Curriculum note: Course titles and availability may vary. The final study plan will be confirmed with the program coordinator.

Entry requirements

Applicants must possess a relevant Bachelor’s degree or equivalent, or demonstrate relevant professional experience. Admissions are evaluated based on prior academic achievements and their alignment with marine conservation and related disciplines. Some applicants may be requested to provide additional information regarding their academic background or experience.

Career prospects