Lincoln University

What you'll study

The Environmental Science major combines core science foundations with specialist topics that address environmental processes, human impacts and sustainable management. Early-year study builds quantitative and disciplinary basics such as biology, chemistry, physics and statistics, while later years focus on applied environmental subjects.

• Core subjects: ecological principles, environmental chemistry, soil science, hydrology and catchment science, biodiversity and ecosystems.
• Applied skills: Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing, environmental monitoring and sampling techniques, modelling and environmental statistics.
• Management and policy: environmental law and policy, resource and land-use management, sustainability and environmental impact assessment.
• Practical experience: field courses, laboratory practicals, data analysis workshops and a final-year research project or honours-equivalent dissertation that develops independent research skills.
• Optional topics and interdisciplinary opportunities: conservation biology, restoration ecology, agricultural-environment interactions, climate science, and social dimensions of environmental management.

Entry requirements

Admission typically requires a recognised secondary school qualification or equivalent tertiary entry standard. Applicants should have a strong background in science and mathematics; qualifications in biology, chemistry and mathematics or statistics are recommended. Mature applicants and those with relevant work or vocational experience may be considered through alternative admission pathways.

International applicants must meet the university's academic and English language requirements. Selection can be competitive, and meeting minimum entry criteria does not guarantee placement.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a wide range of roles across public, private and non-government sectors. Typical career pathways include:

• Environmental consultant or technician conducting site assessments, environmental monitoring and impact assessments.
• Resource and land management roles with regional councils, government agencies and iwi organisations.
• Conservation and biodiversity positions with parks, reserves and environmental NGOs.
• GIS and spatial analyst roles supporting environmental planning and natural resource management.
• Research assistant roles and progression to postgraduate study in ecology, environmental science, resource management or related fields.

Why study at Lincoln University

Lincoln University has a long-established focus on land-based and environmental sciences, offering strong practical and field-based learning owing to its proximity to diverse ecosystems in the Canterbury region. Small cohort sizes allow close supervision and direct engagement with academic staff who have applied research experience in areas such as soil science, freshwater ecology and landscape management.

The university maintains links with industry, local and regional government, and research organisations, providing opportunities for internships, applied projects and employment pathways. For students seeking a hands-on education with clear links to land and resource management careers, Lincoln's environmental programmes combine theoretical rigour with extensive practical training.