Massey University

What you'll study

The programme combines applied and theoretical study across natural and social science perspectives on environmental problems. Core themes include environmental assessment and monitoring, resource and environmental policy, ecological and social sustainability, and tools for analysis such as geographic information systems (GIS) and quantitative and qualitative research methods.

• Environmental assessment and monitoring – techniques for designing monitoring programmes, indicators of environmental change and impact assessment methods.
• Resource management law and policy – study of regulatory frameworks for natural resource use, governance arrangements and the role of policy instruments in managing environmental outcomes, including attention to New Zealand contexts.
• Indigenous perspectives and engagement – kaupapa and tikanga-informed approaches to environmental management, co-management, and working with iwi and communities.
• Ecosystem processes and climate adaptation – ecological principles, drivers of change and approaches to adaptation and resilience-building.
• Tools and techniques – GIS and spatial analysis, statistics for environmental data, modelling and decision-support tools.
• Research project or thesis – a substantial independent research project or thesis supervised by academic staff, or a capstone applied project that integrates theory and practice.

Study is typically delivered through a mix of taught papers, practical workshops and a substantial research or applied project. The programme is offered with flexible study options, including full‑time and part‑time enrolment and distance-learning components, enabling working professionals to combine study with employment.

Entry requirements

Applicants should normally hold a relevant bachelor’s degree with good academic standing. Candidates with a degree in environmental science, ecology, geography, planning, resource management, social science, or a related discipline are well placed to succeed. Applicants without a relevant degree but who have substantial professional experience in environmental or resource management may be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Applicants for the research pathway will be expected to demonstrate research potential and may be asked to submit a short research proposal. International applicants and applicants whose first language is not English will need to provide evidence of English language proficiency as specified by the University.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Master of Environmental Management pursue a wide range of careers across the public, private and community sectors. Common roles include:

• Environmental consultant or analyst for private consultancies
• Resource management planner or compliance officer with regional and local government
• Policy analyst or advisor in central government agencies, NGOs or iwi organisations
• Sustainability advisor or corporate environmental manager in industry
• Conservation practitioner for regional conservation projects, community trusts or environmental NGOs
• Researcher or continuation to doctoral study in environmental science, policy or planning

The programme supports employability through applied projects, industry engagement and opportunities to work on real-world environmental problems with partner organisations.

Why study at Massey University

Massey has a long-standing profile in applied environmental research and teaching, with staff expertise spanning ecological science, planning, policy and social dimensions of environmental management. The University offers flexible delivery modes that suit distance learners and working professionals, alongside on-campus laboratories and fieldwork opportunities.

Students benefit from links between academic staff and regional agencies, iwi and community organisations, which help provide practical project opportunities and local contextual knowledge. The multidisciplinary environment at Massey encourages graduates to tackle complex environmental challenges with both technical skills and an understanding of governance and social context.