About the programme
The Master of International Nature Conservation (Research) is an NZQF level 9 research programme at Lincoln University in New Zealand that prepares students for international conservation careers by having them study at two universities — Lincoln and the University of Göttingen in Germany. It carries 240 credits over two years of full-time study.
Conservation is a global effort carried out in specific local settings, and a key skill is assessing what works in one part of the world, adapting it and applying it elsewhere. Studying in two countries with contrasting conditions shows how conservation issues and approaches differ between hemispheres.
New Zealand is a global biodiversity hotspot, and Lincoln's focus is mainly on endangered species in natural areas, together with the growing role of urban and farming landscapes in protecting or threatening species; the university is especially strong in practical ecology and conservation. Germany, by contrast, centres on heavily modified landscapes with a strong cultural dimension and continent-wide conservation networks, with conservation biology and ecological systems at the heart of teaching and research.
The programme comprises two semesters of coursework split between Lincoln and Göttingen, all taught in English, 12 weeks of practical work, and a 120-credit research project or thesis. Placements can be in New Zealand or abroad with an international conservation organisation. Modules cover wildlife assessment, species extinction, conservation strategies and monitoring programmes, and the flexible structure lets students tailor courses, practical work and research to their interests. Graduates receive a joint degree from Lincoln University and the University of Göttingen.
The programme suits graduates in natural or technical sciences, environmentally focused business, economics or related fields who want to work in conservation.
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
- Preferred background: technical or natural sciences, environmentally oriented business, economics or related sciences
- IELTS 6.5 (no individual band less than 6.0)
What you study
- ECOL 609 — Conservation Biology
- ECOL 612 — Wildlife Management
- ECOL 630 — Advanced Ecology
- ECOL 631 — Animal Behaviour
- ECOL 608 — Research Methods in Ecology
- ERST 606 — Advanced Geographic Information Systems A
- MAST 606 — Indigenous Planning & Development
- University of Göttingen courses — at least 60 credits (30 ECTS)
- 12 weeks of practical work, which may include an internship with an international conservation organisation
- Research project / thesis — 120 credits
Careers after graduation
- Local or global conservation careers
- Species protection
- Work with international conservation organisations
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