About the programme
The Postgraduate Diploma in Environmental Management is an NZQF level 8 programme at Lincoln University for people who want to become advanced environmental management professionals and help shape responses to global environmental challenges. It carries 120 credits and takes 1 year of full-time study, normally two semesters; part-time study is also possible.
The programme takes knowledge of environmental management theory, practice and policy to an advanced level. It tests students' critical analysis and builds their skills in evaluation, problem-solving and communication. Graduates are able to develop strategies for managing resources and protecting the environment and to present them at senior level.
All 120 credits are at 600 level. Students must take one 20-credit course from three options: resource studies theory, environmental policy and planning, or Mana Kaitiaki (Māori resource management); on campus the resource studies theory course is compulsory and environmental policy is a suggested elective. At least 60 credits (three courses) must come from environmental studies, law, Māori studies, ecology or water subjects, or an approved research methods course, and up to 40 credits may come from the wider schedule. The Academic Coordinator approves the final selection.
The diploma can be taken on campus or fully online; the online course range is narrower, and the online version is not open to international students already in New Zealand. It can stand alone or lead on to a master's degree such as the Master of Applied Science (Environmental Management), Master of Planning or Master of 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
- Additional English language requirements for applicants whose first language is not English
What you study
- ERST 601 Advanced Theory in Resource Studies (compulsory on campus)
- ERST 630 Environmental Policy and Planning (suggested elective)
- MAST 603 Mana Kaitiaki (Māori Resource Management)
- ERST 621 Principles of Environmental Impact Assessment
- ERST 631 Environmental Sciences in Environmental Policy
- ERST 632 Economics in Environmental Policy
- LWST 602 Advanced Resource Management and Planning Law
- ERST 620 Advanced Environmental Management Systems
- ERST 633 Integrated Environmental Management
Careers after graduation
- Designing approaches to resource management and environmental stewardship
- Communicating environmental solutions at senior level
- Progression to the Master of Applied Science (Environmental Management), Master of Planning or Master of Environmental Policy and Management
Post-study work visa
About 1 year
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