Overview
*Subject to NZQA approval.
Learn about our amazing wildlife and our fascinating environment, and find out why it is in danger and what we can do to help.
For lovers of the outdoors and New Zealand’s environment, this programme introduces you to a range of ecosystems from forests to urban habitats. You’ll learn from passionate and inspiring tutors who will encourage you to develop your practical and theoretical knowledge. Learn about our amazing wildlife and our fascinating environment, and find out why it is in danger and what we can do to help. Share the journey with the inspiring team of experts from NorthTec and be informed. This diploma will help you develop the theoretical and practical skills to work within the environmental sector.
The Environmental Management pathway at NorthTec offers three qualifications in three years:
- After one year of study: New Zealand Diploma in Environmental Management (Level 5)
- After two years of study: New Zealand Diploma in Environmental Management (Level 6)
- After three years of study: Bachelor of Applied Science (Biodiversity Management) (From Unitec)
What you will learn
This programme will teach you the principles and techniques involved in environmental management. You’ll gain a practical and theoretical knowledge of terrestrial and marine ecosystems, flora and fauna in New Zealand and learn about sustainability, environmental issues, monitoring and conservation techniques. You’ll also get involved in the protection and restoration of local natural, rural and urban environments.
Graduates of this qualification will be able to:
- Describe global environmental issues (with a focus on New Zealand) to determine their impacts on societies and ecosystems, and basic mitigation measures.
- Use data collection and surveying methods to monitor environmental ecological or asset management.
- Apply knowledge of New Zealand terrestrial biology and ecology systems to enable organism monitoring in a field environment.
Entry Requirements
All applicants must:
- be at least 16 years old at the time the programme commences.
- be able to understand follow, and respond to instructions given in English.
- be physically able to complete the programme specific outcomes
All applicants must:
- be at least 16 years old at the time the programme commences.
- be able to read, write, and communicate in English at a basic level.
- be physically able to complete the programme-specific outcomes.
All applicants must:
- be at least 16 years old at the time the programme commences.
- be able to read, write, and communicate in English at a basic level.
- be physically able to complete the programme-specific outcomes.
Applicants for whom English is not a first language must have an IELTS score of 5 with no band score lower than 5; or an accepted international equivalence.
All applicants must:
- be at least 16 years old at the time the programme commences.
- be able to read, write, and communicate in English at a basic level.
- be physically able to complete the programme-specific outcomes.
Applicants for whom English is not a first language must have an IELTS score of 5.5 with no band score lower than 5; or an accepted international equivalence.
Applicants are required to have gained:
- A minimum of 42 credits at NCEA Level 3 or equivalent;
- or a relevant Level 4 qualification
Applicants for whom English is not a first language must have an IELTS Academic score of 5.5, with no band score lower than 5; or an accepted international equivalence.
Applicants who do not meet the entry requirements but whose skills, education or work experience indicate that they have a reasonable chance of success, may gain admission at the discretion of the Programme Leader or designated nominee.
Intakes & Applications
Dates & Bookings
Learn online with Open Polytechnic, with regional support by NorthTec:
- Access to a NorthTec facilities – computer/meeting room access, library and student support.
- Local workshops – optional workshops where you can be supported in your online learning with others studying the same programme as you. Located in Whangārei, Ngāwhā, Kerikeri, Kaitaia, & other campuses as demand requires.
Youth Guarantee Fund*
If you are aged 16 to 24, you could study for FREE as part of the government's Youth Guarantee fund. To qualify for the Youth Guarantee fund, you must meet the following criteria:
- Complete an application for a course that is covered by the Youth Guarantee fund.
- Be a NZ citizen or permanent resident.
- Be 16 to 24 years old at the time the course starts. Learners who are 15 years old and hold Ministry approved early leaving exemption from their school may also be eligible. This exemption must be in place before the course starts.
Priority places will be given to students who:
- have not yet achieved NCEA Level 1 or NCEA Level 2; or
- have completed a Level 1 or Level 2 qualification through a Youth Guarantee provision programme.
All free study is subject to funding confirmation. Proof of residency status is required. Programme entry criteria may apply. Eligibility for student allowances or student loans may vary. Contact Studylink for more information.
* All fees and study costs found on this website are indicative course fees only and exclude the Compulsory Student Services Fee (CSSF) levy and any course-related costs. The 2025 CSSF levy is $300 per full-time equivalent student (120 credits) for programmes level 3 and above.
Unless otherwise stated, prices are in New Zealand Dollars including GST. Prices that are not explicitly indicated as International are the domestic price and may differ for International students. For programmes longer than one academic year in duration, the fees quoted are for the first year. Final study costs depends on a number of factors including the courses you select to study. All fees and study costs are subject to confirmation, including zero fees courses.
Courses and programmes may be cancelled, postponed or have their content or configuration changed from time to time (including during the academic year) at the discretion of NorthTec. See our full Terms and conditions.
Additional Information
Education and Employment Pathway
On completion of this qualification, graduates may progress onto the New Zealand Diploma in Environmental Management (Level 6).
Graduates of this qualification will be able to work in the following contexts:
- Conservation officer
- Resource management adviser/consultant
- Environmental consultant/technician.
Employment Pathways
About Te Pūkenga
Following the Government’s announcement of its intention to disestablish Te Pūkenga | New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology, please be assured that your programme of study or training will continue as planned while we work through the details of how this change will be implemented.
We are committed to ensuring that organisational changes that need to be made to meet the Government’s expectations do not impact the delivery of our programmes and training for our learners and employers.
If you need access to learner support services or have any concerns, please contact us.
