University of Auckland

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced taught material with intensive practical training and an independent research project. Core themes include marine ecology, conservation planning, fisheries interactions, marine protected areas, restoration ecology, and the social dimensions of marine conservation.

• Taught courses: topics typically cover marine biodiversity and ecosystem functioning, quantitative ecology and statistics for marine science, conservation planning and protected area design, marine policy and governance, and applied field methods.
• Practical training: fieldwork along New Zealand’s diverse coastlines and at the University of Auckland’s marine facilities (including access to coastal field stations) provides hands-on experience in surveying, sampling, SCUBA-based work where appropriate, laboratory techniques and remote sensing or GIS applications.
• Research project: students undertake an independent dissertation or thesis on a marine conservation question, supervised by faculty with expertise in ecology, fisheries, social science or conservation policy. Projects often involve collaboration with regional councils, government agencies, iwi/hapū, non-governmental organisations or industry partners.
• Skills developed: experimental design, statistical analysis, spatial planning, stakeholder engagement, science communication, and project management relevant to marine conservation practice.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a relevant bachelor’s degree (for example in biology, ecology, marine science, environmental science, fisheries science or a closely related discipline). Typical pathways include an undergraduate degree with appropriate coursework in ecology and quantitative methods. Consideration is also given to applicants who have relevant professional experience.

• Academic background: a recognised bachelor’s degree with sufficient preparation in biological or environmental sciences; an honours degree or postgraduate diploma in a related subject strengthens an application.
• Research readiness: for the research component, candidates should demonstrate potential for independent study; applicants may be asked to provide a short statement of research interests and potential supervisors are sometimes identified during the application process.
• Supporting documents: academic transcripts, curriculum vitae, references or referee reports, and a personal statement outlining motivation and relevant experience.
• English language: applicants whose first language is not English are required to meet the university’s English proficiency requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates from this programme move into a range of roles that combine scientific, policy and management responsibilities in marine conservation.

• Marine conservation scientist or research assistant in universities and research institutes.
• Marine protected area planner and manager for national or regional government agencies.
• Environmental consultant specialising in coastal impact assessments, restoration or biodiversity monitoring.
• Positions with non-governmental organisations focused on marine conservation and advocacy.
• Advisory roles with iwi/hapū and community groups on customary fisheries and local marine management.
• Further academic study, including progression to doctoral research in marine ecology, conservation biology or resource management.

Why study at University of Auckland

The University of Auckland offers strong research expertise in marine science and conservation, supported by coastal teaching and research facilities that enable field-based learning. The university’s location provides direct access to a variety of temperate and subtropical marine environments for practical study.

• Opportunities to work with established research groups and supervisors experienced in marine ecology, fisheries and conservation policy.
• Access to field stations and laboratory infrastructure that support hands-on training and collaborative projects with government, iwi/hapū and industry partners.
• An interdisciplinary approach combining natural and social science perspectives, equipping graduates to address complex conservation problems and engage with stakeholders.
• Strong links with national agencies and conservation organisations, facilitating internships, placements and applied research collaborations.