About the programme
The Master of Environmental Policy and Management is an NZQF level 9 programme at Lincoln University in New Zealand that prepares specialists in environmental policy and management through 18 months of full-time study and 180 credits.
Lincoln describes finding ways to reduce our impact on the environment as one of the most important challenges we face. The programme builds advanced research and analysis skills and a balanced understanding of the social, cultural, political and economic settings that shape environmental decision-making.
Students learn to critically assess policies and management approaches, understand how environmental science, policy and management connect, and appraise the legal, institutional and economic contexts that environmental policy acts on. There is a strong emphasis on evidence-based argument, designing alternative approaches, applying knowledge to real problems, teamwork and communicating with varied audiences.
The curriculum includes two compulsory courses (40 credits) — environmental policy and planning, and integrated environmental management — at least four courses (80 credits) from a core list, and up to three electives (60 credits) from master's courses across the university. It is offered on the Lincoln University campus and fully online, though online course choice is limited and the online option is not open to international students already in New Zealand. Students can also start with a Postgraduate Certificate or Diploma and staircase into the master's. As a taught degree without a research component, it does not lead directly to a PhD; for that, Lincoln points to the Master of Applied Science in Environmental Management.
The programme suits people aiming for senior roles in environmental policy and management.
Entry requirements
- A relevant New Zealand level 7 bachelor's degree or recognised equivalent with at least a B average in 300-level and final-year courses
- Applicants whose first language is not English must meet the university's English language requirements
- Alternative route: start with a Postgraduate Certificate or Postgraduate Diploma in Applied Science / Environmental Management
What you study
- Environmental Policy and Planning — compulsory, 20 credits
- Integrated Environmental Management — compulsory, 20 credits
- ERST 601 — Advanced Theory in Resource Studies
- ERST 620 — Advanced Environmental Management Systems
- ERST 621 — Principles of Environmental Impact Assessment
- ERST 631 — Environmental Sciences in Environmental Policy
- ERST 632 — Economics in Environmental Policy
- ERST 636 — Aspects of Sustainability: An International Perspective
- LWST 602 — Advanced Resource Management and Planning Law
- MAST 603 — Mana Kaitiaki (Māori Resource Management)
Careers after graduation
- Government agencies
- Regional councils
- Environmental and business consultancies
- Industry organisations and businesses
- Non-governmental organisations and advocacy groups
Post-study work visa
Up to 3 years
Depends on the qualification, the length of study and other Immigration New Zealand requirements.
This description is based on the official programme page, checked on 09/09/2026. Ask an NIU adviser about fees and intake dates — the programme page on the Lincoln University website