The Master of Pest Management at Lincoln University is an applied postgraduate programme for graduates who want advanced skills in prevention, surveillance and control of invasive pests in terrestrial and freshwater systems. It suits biologists, ecologists, agricultural or biosecurity professionals seeking a mix of coursework and a substantial research or applied project tied to management outcomes.
The programme combines core pest science with applied management practice. Typical modules cover pest biology and ecology, invasion biology, integrated pest management (IPM), surveillance and monitoring techniques, biosecurity policy and planning, ecological modelling and risk assessment, and methods in applied research and statistics. Practical components include field sampling, laboratory techniques, use of remote sensing and GIS for pest mapping, and stakeholder engagement for management planning.
Students normally complete a series of taught papers and a substantive research or applied project (thesis or practicum) that addresses a real-world pest management problem. Projects are often undertaken in partnership with regional agencies, industry groups, or research institutes and can focus on topics such as eradication strategies, containment and control, restoration following pest removal, or evaluation of new control technologies.
Applicants are expected to hold a relevant bachelordegree (for example in biology, ecology, environmental science, agriculture, horticulture or a related discipline) with evidence of solid academic performance. Candidates with a postgraduate diploma, honours degree, or significant professional experience in biosecurity, pest control or conservation may also be considered. You will need to demonstrate quantitative skills sufficient for ecological data analysis; some programmes require prior coursework in statistics or ecology.
International applicants must meet the university's English language requirements. As admissions can be competitive, providing a clear research idea or description of relevant professional experience strengthens an application.
Graduates work across public, private and research sectors. Typical employers include national and regional biosecurity agencies, conservation departments, district councils, environmental consultancies, pest control companies, and research organisations. Roles commonly taken by graduates include pest management officer, biosecurity adviser, ecological modeller, restoration practitioner, research scientist, and policy advisor. The qualification also provides a pathway to doctoral research for those interested in an academic or advanced research career.
Lincoln has an established Centre for Pest Management and strong links with New Zealands biosecurity and conservation sectors, offering access to applied research projects and industry partners. The university emphasises field-based, hands-on training and interdisciplinary approaches that combine ecology, management and policy. Small class sizes and close supervision allow tailored project work and direct engagement with practitioners, researchers and regional stakeholders, providing practical experience that supports employability in pest and biosecurity careers.
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