University of Waikato

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced coursework with an independent research or applied project. Core themes include environmental and resource management law and practice, statutory planning, environmental impact assessment, spatial data analysis and Geographic Information Systems (GIS), climate change adaptation, and participatory methods for working with communities and indigenous stakeholders.

• Core modules — planning theory and practice; resource management and policy; environmental impact assessment; tangata whenua and planning.
• Technical skills — GIS and spatial analysis, environmental monitoring, quantitative and qualitative research methods.
• Options and electives — coastal and freshwater management, climate change adaptation, urban and regional planning, environmental economics, stakeholder engagement and mediation.
• Research component — a supervised thesis or an applied project that addresses a real-world planning or environmental management problem, typically involving data collection, analysis and recommendations for policy or practice.
• Fieldwork and practical learning — local field trips, case studies from the Waikato region, and opportunities to work on projects with local councils, iwi/hapū and industry partners.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally required to hold a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline (for example, environmental science, geography, planning, resource management, social science or a related professional qualification) with a strong academic record. Applicants with substantial relevant professional experience in planning, environmental management, or policy may also be considered.

Typical application requirements include an academic transcript, a CV, a personal statement outlining research or professional goals, and referees. Applicants whose first language is not English will need to meet the University’s English language proficiency requirements. Some applicants may be invited to discuss their research proposal or professional background with programme staff.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Master of Environmental Planning go on to a wide range of roles across the public, private and community sectors. Common career paths include:

• Planner or resource consents officer in local and regional government
• Environmental consultant specialising in impact assessment, consenting or compliance
• Iwi/hapū or community-based environmental advisor and strategic planner
• Policy analyst or adviser for government agencies and NGOs working on resource management, climate adaptation or biodiversity
• GIS and spatial data specialist supporting planning and environmental decision-making
• Researcher or PhD candidate in planning, environmental management or related fields

Why study at University of Waikato

The University of Waikato offers a programme grounded in the region’s diverse environments and planning challenges, providing practical learning through local case studies and fieldwork. The programme emphasises bicultural and indigenous perspectives in environmental decision-making, reflecting strong links with tangata whenua and regional stakeholders.

Students benefit from applied teaching staff with professional and research expertise, access to GIS and laboratory facilities, and opportunities to collaborate with local councils, iwi/hapū and industry partners. The combination of technical skills, policy knowledge and hands-on experience prepares graduates for careers across Aotearoa New Zealand and internationally.