Lincoln University

What you'll study

This research master’s combines advanced coursework in environmental science and management with a substantial independent research thesis. Coursework topics typically cover environmental monitoring and assessment, ecosystem and catchment management, environmental law and policy, natural resource economics, spatial analysis and GIS, statistical methods for environmental data, and modelling of ecological or hydrological systems.

Students normally complete taught papers to build methodological and theoretical skills, then design and carry out a supervised research project that contributes new knowledge or applied solutions to an environmental management issue. Practical elements can include field sampling, laboratory analysis, remote sensing, spatial data analysis, stakeholder engagement and the communication of research findings to non‑academic audiences.

• Environmental monitoring and assessment
• Catchment and coastal management
• Environmental policy, planning and regulation
• Geographic information systems and remote sensing
• Quantitative methods and environmental statistics
• Modelling of ecological, hydrological or biogeochemical processes
• Research design and thesis preparation

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have a relevant bachelor's degree with honours or an equivalent qualification demonstrating strong academic performance in fields such as environmental science, ecology, geography, resource management, agriculture, or a related discipline. Applicants who hold a three‑year bachelor’s degree with substantial relevant professional experience or a postgraduate diploma may also be considered.

Because this is a research degree, prospective students should normally provide a brief research proposal or statement of research interests and identify potential supervisors with relevant expertise. Admission decisions will take into account academic transcripts, referees' reports and the fit between the proposed project and departmental supervisory capacity.

International applicants must meet the university's English language requirements. Additional conditions or preparatory coursework may be specified for applicants who need to build particular quantitative or technical skills before starting the research component.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of roles in the environmental sector. Typical career destinations include environmental consultant or technical specialist in private consultancies, environmental policy analyst for central or local government agencies, natural resource or catchment manager, conservation and biodiversity officer, environmental planner, and roles with iwi, hapū and community organisations. The research training also prepares graduates for positions in research institutes and universities or for progression to doctoral study.

Skills developed on the programme—research design, field and laboratory techniques, GIS and data analysis, policy evaluation and stakeholder engagement—are valued across industry, non‑governmental organisations and regulatory bodies involved in environmental management and sustainability.

Why study at Lincoln University

Lincoln University has a strong applied focus on land, water and environmental management and a long history of collaboration with industry and government in Aotearoa New Zealand. The university provides access to specialised research facilities, laboratory support and field sites in Canterbury that are well suited to catchment, agricultural and coastal environmental studies.

Postgraduate students benefit from small cohort sizes and close supervision, enabling tailored projects that engage with local stakeholders and real management issues. Lincoln's disciplinary strengths in ecology, soil and water science, GIS and resource economics provide a multidisciplinary environment for tackling complex environmental problems and preparing graduates for applied and research careers.