About the programme
The Master of Applied Science (Biodiversity Management) is an NZQF Level 9 research master's of 180 credits at Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT), completed in 18 months full-time, in which students investigate real problems facing New Zealand's aquaculture sector and add new knowledge to the industry.
There are two routes in. Students who enrol directly spend their first semester on four prescribed 15-credit courses — research methods, stakeholder engagement, marine ecosystems and biosecurity — and then move on to a substantial independent thesis worth 120 credits. Graduates of NMIT's Postgraduate Diploma in Sustainable Aquaculture can go straight to the thesis component.
The research topic is agreed with academic supervisors to match the student's interests and career goals. Possible areas include sustainable aquaculture practice, marine biodiversity, aquatic ecosystem management, biosecurity, shellfish or finfish production, environmental monitoring and emerging challenges in the sector. Along the way students learn to design and run an independent project, critique scientific literature and data, apply advanced methods and explain findings to both academic and industry audiences.
NMIT has a long record in aquaculture education and close ties with industry across Te Tauihu, a region known internationally for marine farming and seafood. Students work alongside researchers and industry professionals, use specialised aquaculture facilities and build connections within the sector.
The degree suits graduates in relevant fields who want to pursue applied research, move into senior, management or consultancy roles, or continue to doctoral study.
Entry requirements
- Intended for graduates of NMIT's Postgraduate Diploma in Sustainable Aquaculture or an equivalent qualification
- A recognised bachelor's degree or higher in a relevant discipline with a B- average or better, or a professional qualification recognised as equivalent
- Special admission: aged 20 or over by the start of the semester, with sufficient evidence of aptitude, work or life experience
- Domestic applicants: at least 8 NCEA Level 2 English credits (4 reading, 4 writing) or equivalent; alternatives on the NZQA English Language Proficiency list are accepted
What you study
- Research methods course
- Stakeholder engagement course
- Marine ecosystems course
- Biosecurity course
- Research Thesis (120 credits)
Careers after graduation
- Aquaculture research scientist
- Environmental or sustainability advisor
- Aquaculture operations manager
- Marine resource manager
- Policy or regulatory advisor
- Consultant
- Doctoral (PhD) study
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 19/09/2026. Ask an NIU adviser about fees and intake dates — the programme page on the NMIT website